Keeping your gutters in good repair is very important because they guard your home from water intrusion.

Leaves and tree debris –
            Gutter guards are a wonderful solution for this problem, but not all gutter guards are of the same quality. Be sure that they attach to the gutter firmly or they will blow away in a high wind. Also, squirrels will pull then lose looking for an acorn or other eatables in the gutter. As always, buy wisely.
            You don’t have to have trees in your yard to have leaves and other gunk in your gutters. Over a period of time this gunk can become trapped in your downspout and cause a lot of damage to your home. You’ll need a ladder that is long enough for you to reach your gutters. Using a bucket and a garden trowel scoop the gunk from the length of your gutters. Next you will need to remove as much as possible from the top of the downspout.  If the clog is a big one, you can us long barbeque tongs to get most of the clog out. Next you will need a garden hose long enough to reach the top of your downspout. Run water through the downspout unit you have washed out all of the debris. Repeat for all you gutters. This is very important as during the winter snowmelt can collect in your downspout and freeze causing your downspout to buckle and the seam to rupture. If this happens you will need to replace the downspout.

Leaking gutters –

1.         Leaking can be caused by holes, cracks or separated joints. If you notice this problem in one area be sure to inspect all the gutter system so that you can make all repairs at one time.

2.         Small holes or cracks can be easily repaired with a little clear water resistant glue. Follow manufacturer’s directions.

3.         Large holes clear water resistant glue and a patch of aluminum cut to size will do the trick.

4          In the case of greater damage replacement is necessary. You don’t need to replace the whole system, just the section that is damaged.

5.         When two sections of gutter or downspout that have separated you just need to press them together again. Then you can either use waterproof gutter cement or a drill and screws to hold the two pieces in place.

6.         Replace gutter hangers immediately. They are what keep your gutters sloping toward the downspout. Unless they are in good repair they will not be able to do their job and that will damage your home.