Has it been too long since you last paid attention to your gutters? That’s understandable, as many homeowners forget about them so long as they appear to be doing the job that they were designed to do. However, prevention is the best method, and summer is a great time to give your gutters the attention that they need. Why is summer such an important time of year to do this?
Increased Rainfall
More rain falls in Morgantown during the summer than in any other season. As a result, you want to ensure that your gutters can handle that increased rainfall. Check if there are any clogs or other issues that will disrupt their effectiveness. Additionally, mold can form, especially if you have clogged gutters that have created standing water.
Active Animals
Animals, such as squirrels and birds, tend to be more active as the weather warms up. For that reason, you should not only maintain your gutters at the start of summer but also continue to check on them as the season progresses. In other words, ensure that there’s not already debris there, which can result in nesting spots. Clear away any rubbish that those animals may bring there throughout the summer.
Insect Invasion
Insects are also more prevalent in the summer. Insects, particularly mosquitoes, are especially attracted to areas with standing water, so make sure that your gutters aren’t causing any pooling.
Watery Wreckage
Even if animals and insects end up not being concerns for you, it’s still important to get your gutters cleaned as rainfall picks up. You want them to be effective drainers so that your house doesn’t suffer costly water damage. Also, note that interior water damage can result in some circumstances.
Sun Stress
Despite it being the rainy season, there’s also plenty of sun. This is great for several reasons, but it can also cause issues for your gutters that you should be prepared for. For example, the sun can create cracks and tears and weaken your gutters’ joints, mostly as a result of thermal expansion.
Prepare for Autumn
Yes, it’s amazing to see the trees change colors and the leaves fall every autumn. However, those same leaves can wreak havoc on your gutters. Ensure that yours are clear of debris at the end of summer so that the impact of leaves falling in the months that follow is minimal.
Professional Assistance
If you need professional gutter installation or maintenance, reach out to MHI Roofing. We provide those and other home and commercial services throughout the Morgantown area and are looking forward to speaking with you.