As a homeowner in Tacoma, Wash., you probably know that having a gutter system is a necessity for preventing serious damage to your home. On top of that, you should know that regular gutter maintenance is the only way to ensure your gutters continue to properly function throughout every rain storm.
Even though it’s crucial, cleaning your gutters can be a hassle; that’s why many homeowners opt for gutter guards or gutter screens. They’re sold the dream of never having to get back onto a ladder.
Unfortunately, that’s usually all it is—a dream.
Your gutters will still require cleaning and maintenance, even with gutter guards. At Tacoma Gutter Service, we’ve seen many homeowners fall into the trap of installing a gutter screen and thinking all their problems are solved. Here’s why that’s not the case.
Debris and Gunk Will Find a Way
There are several different types of gutter guards, such as screens and bottle brushes. Each kind of gutter protection still needs to let water into your gutters, so it only makes sense that small debris and other gunk will find its way in as well. Dust, dirt, mildew, roof granules, and small twigs or leaves can accumulate in your system. Larger debris can sit on top of your screens and prevent water from getting in at all, causing it to pour over and making your gutters virtually useless.
Once your gutters get clogged, all bets are off. Your home then becomes susceptible to flooding, rot, mold, mildew, and a weakened foundation. The only way to truly protect your gutters and your home against the danger of obstruction is through regular maintenance and cleanings (of both your gutters and their screens).
Benefits of Gutter Guards
Just because they don’t solve all your problems, doesn’t mean gutter guards are completely worthless.
Even though leaves and debris will eventually accumulate on top of your gutter guards, they are less time-consuming and much easier to clear off than having to clean your entire gutter system. Gutter guards do make maintenance easier. You may even find that if you’re clearing off your screen on a regular basis, you won’t have to clean your system as much—maybe just once or twice a year.
Completely blocked and clogged gutters are less likely with gutter guards and screens. The large debris that would typically cause an obstruction won’t make their way into your system. When water is running freely through your gutters, you don’t have to worry about stagnant water pooling up and becoming a breeding ground for insects, like mosquitos and spiders.
Gutter screens protect your system from larger vermin as well. The guards work as a physical barrier to birds and rodents, keeping them out of your gutters. Additionally, without the buildup of debris in your system, these animals won’t have access to the nesting material and shelter that often make gutters a favorable home.
Skip the Stress
If you choose to have gutter guards—or have them already—then thorough cleaning can be more of a hassle. You’ll have to carefully clean and remove your guard or screen before cleaning out your gutters.
Or you can skip the additional hardware altogether and just hire us to take care of all your gutter cleaning needs. On top of making sure your gutters are debris-free, we’ll also check for potential issues such as cracks, corrosion, sagging, and areas that might be pulling away from your home’s fascia.
Our team of experienced professionals can help you decide if gutter guards would benefit your home, as well as help you maintain your gutter system, whether or not you opt for them. To schedule a free estimate, visit us online or call (253) 927-7111.
This post first appeared on https://tacomagutterservice.com