Did you know that the standard life expectancy for gutters in NH is 20 to 30 years? Most people don’t! However, the longevity of the gutter system depends on a few things. For instance, environmental conditions and maintaining a routine maintenance schedule play a significant role.
For instance, heavily wooded homes generally require more attention than those located in open areas. Whatever the situation may be, there are common red flags warning homeowners that the gutter system is in need of a little TLC. Here at M&J Seamless Gutters, we’ve seen it all. Below is a list of the most common gutter problems around New England.
Debris
Let’s go back to the home located in a wooded area. Debris accumulation is one of the top reasons for gutter failure in these homes. However, keep in mind that debris happens even in any home. From falling leaves to acorns, to fallen branches from storms, unprotected gutter systems are the perfect landing spot.
Loose debris can quickly gather and decompose. Once that process begins, the debris will weigh itself down, becoming heavy and a hazard to your home. Here are a few examples of potential hazards:
- Cluttered or clogged debris is a fire hazard.
- Heavy debris, or ice build-up, can dislodge your gutter system from the home.
- Water backup can occur, causing damage to your roofing shingles and, potentially, the structural integrity of your house.
Ice Dams
Like leaf clutter, frozen water can wreak havoc on your roof. Ice dams occur when clogged gutters are left unattended before the winter season. Once the rain and snow begin to fall, there is no avenue for the water to flow. So, instead, the water freezes and builds upward on the roof. As you can imagine, ice buildup (or ice dams) can quickly become extremely heavy, causing thousands of dollars in damage and repair needs.
Interior Hazards
Beyond the hazardous effects a clogged gutter system can cause, it can be the source of much more. For example:
- Basement flooding can occur if water is allowed into the home.
- Water leakage is also the number one reason for basement foundation cracks.
- Water damage equals mold growth. Mold growth opens a whole different door of issues for your family.
- Window, door, siding, and paint damage or rot. An expensive fix!
NH Gutters: What You Can Do
Beyond the apparent maintenance of your gutter system, there are a few other tasks to keep your gutters in optimal condition. For instance:
- When using ladders, be sure to place them on the siding of your home, not the gutters.
- Winter ice storms can build up and clog if not adequately cleaned out upon the thawing cycle.
- Cover your gutters. Pests love clutter. Squirrels, mice, etc., will jump at the chance to set up shop in a clogged gutter system.
- Check your gutters after intense summer storms with strong winds.
If you’re experiencing any of these problems, it may be time for gutter repair or replacement. Upgrading your existing system to M&J Seamless Gutters NH is only a phone call away. For more information on how we can protect your home, contact the professionals at M&J Seamless Gutters at (603) 566-7516.