Your roof is designed to protect your entire home. It is one of your largest investments and one of the most important.
So, keeping your roof in top condition is a no-brainer, but something we often overlook is our gutters.
Why do we need gutters?
Gutters are our main drainage system. The amount of water flowing off our roof is staggering, and without a proper way to redirect it, our home and landscaping will suffer damage.
Gutters are designed as a system that interconnects with downspouts and drainage systems to move water away from our foundation.
It is crucial that we maintain this system to keep it functioning properly.
Gutter maintenance
You can choose the longest-lasting roofing materials that your budget allows, but if you don’t maintain your gutters, it will be money wasted.
Wind and major storms contribute to debris buildup in your gutters. If you don’t have gutter guards installed to keep your gutters free of debris, regular cleaning is crucial to maintain maximum water flow capacity.
How do clogged gutters damage your roof?
Clogged or improperly installed gutters can damage the integrity of your roof in many ways.
Even the best roofing for durability must still rely on properly installed gutters to maintain the longevity of your roof.
Signs your gutters may be damaging your roof:
- Water backflow is rotting your roof.
- The roof’s fascia or facer board is showing damage. Fascia is the long boards that run along the lower edge of your roof and is attached to the ends of the trusses.
- Mold or algae growth
- Attic or wall leaks
How often should I clean my gutters?
Gutter maintenance is a year-round activity. Spring and Fall are good times to make sure your gutters are in good working order, but you should also check and clean them after any major storms.
Keeping your gutters clean and in good working order is the easiest way to ensure the longevity of your roof. You will get the most mileage out of your roof if you maintain it along with your gutter system.
If your gutters were not correctly installed or maintained, you should schedule a roof inspection to determine the health of your roof.
Southern National Roofing offers free same-day inspections to help you determine the status of your system.
Signs you need a new roof
- Leaking in your attic
- Water damage, walls/ceiling
- Curled, brittle, or missing shingles
- Detached flashing
- Algae or mold growth
- Rotted roof sheathing or fascia
Many factors influence the lifespan of your roof, but neglecting your gutters is one of the most significant ways to shorten it.
When in doubt about the health of your roof and gutters, you don’t have to go it alone. Contact Southern National Roofing, the Southeast’s premier roofing experts, to help you navigate the issues.
We offer stress-free, transparent advice that you can count on. Schedule a free consultation today!
