You know that gutters are one of those things that are easy to ignore until there’s a problem. When water starts pooling around the foundation of your house or leaks into the basement, you realize pretty quickly how important proper gutter installation is.
Keep reading for tips on how to properly install and maintain your gutters so you can avoid emergency repairs. Give our Greenville roofing experts at Lanier Roofing and Restoration a call for all your gutter installation and repair needs.
Proper installation and regular maintenance of your gutters will help ensure they do their job effectively for years to come and prevent costly water damage to your home. If your gutters are old, damaged, or showing signs of wear and tear, it’s a good idea to replace them.
New, seamless gutters, in particular, are a great, low-maintenance option. Once installed, be sure to clean out your gutters at least twice a year to remove any built-up debris.
To prevent clogs and water damage, installing gutters with the proper slope is key. For effective water flow, gutters need to slope at least 1 inch for every 10 feet towards the downspouts. So, if you have a 30-foot section of gutter, aim for a 3-inch drop from one end to the other. Using a level, make sure each section has a consistent incline before attaching it.
Leaves, twigs, and other debris can build up and clog gutters, even on the right slope. Gutter guards, also called gutter screens, allow water in but keep most litter out. They come in a variety of styles, like surface tension and mesh screens. Installing guards when you put up new gutters helps ensure free water flow for years to come.
Even with proper slopes and guards, gutters need to be checked and cleared periodically. Clogs can form, seals can break, and leaks may appear over time. Examine your gutters at least twice a year, ideally in spring and fall. Remove any debris, clear out clogs, and seal or repair any leaks or damage right away to avoid water damage to your roof, siding, and foundation.
Don’t be stingy with the sealant. Apply a thick bead of sealant on the underside of gutters where they meet the roofline, in seams and joints, and anywhere water could potentially drip or seep in. Caulk, roof cement, or gutter sealant can all work well for this. Smooth the sealant over the area with a putty knife or caulk tool to create an even, waterproof seal.
It’s also a good idea to seal around any gutter spikes, screws, or rivets. These fasteners penetrate the gutter material and can allow water to leak in if left unsealed. For metal gutters, you may need to apply a primer first to help the sealant adhere properly. With vinyl or aluminum gutters, the sealant can typically be applied directly.
When joining gutter sections, you have a couple of options: gutter sealant or gutter connectors. For DIY installation, gutter sealant is typically easier to work with. You simply clean and dry the inside of the gutter ends, apply the sealant as directed, join the sections together, and hold them in place as it dries. Be sure to wipe away any excess sealant for a clean finish.
Gutter connectors, like gutter brackets or splice plates, provide a more solid, leak-proof join but require more work to install. You’ll need to cut the gutter ends to fit the connectors, secure the connectors in place, and then seal around them with sealant for the best results. Connectors may require riveting or screwing the gutter sections together through the connector.
When it comes to gutter installation and maintenance, Lanier Roofing and Restoration has you covered. We have over 30 years of experience installing and servicing gutters in the Greenville and Ridgeland areas. Our skilled technicians are trained in the latest gutter systems and technologies to ensure your gutters are properly installed and functioning well for years to come.
When you need gutter work done, call the professionals at Lanier Roofing and Restoration. Our locally-owned company is committed to providing high-quality gutter services, unparalleled customer service, and fair, honest pricing.
We offer free estimates for all our services and flexible scheduling to work around your needs. For any questions about gutter installation or maintenance, call us today at (843) 203-9855. We look forward to helping ensure your home’s gutters are in tip-top shape!
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