Gutters 101: Importance, Maintenance, & Upgrades

Your gutter system probably isn’t at the top of your to-do list. Most homeowners assume that their gutter system is good to do, and it’s easy to forget about routine upkeep, especially with all the things you have on your schedule.

However, gutters are an essential part of protecting your home from damage, and just like any other part of your house, gutters need to be maintained and routinely upgraded. Over time, they will wear down and need to be replaced. Also, they can become clogged without regular cleaning and lead to leaks or other damage.

To ensure your gutter is in good condition, this guide from Roofers of Minnesota covers the basics of gutter maintenance and upgrades.

What is Gutter Maintenance?

Gutter maintenance is simply what needs to be done to ensure your gutters stay in great condition. For most homes, it’s a good idea to clean the gutters at least twice per year, before spring and before winter. This way, you can remove any debris that’s built up and prevent water damage.

You can check the gutters yourself, and you should also inspect that the downspout is working correctly. However, it can be dangerous to clean gutters without the proper equipment, so it’s often best to work with a professional.

What Are Gutter Upgrades?

Upgrading the gutter system is one way to keep your gutters working and extend their lifespan. Most gutters last between 20 and 50 years, depending on gutter material and upkeep factors. However, even if our gutters are still in decent shape, you may want to consider a couple of upgrades, such as:

• Gutter Guards: These keep debris like leaves and twigs from getting clogged in the gutters. By installing gutter guards, you won’t have to do as much maintenance on your gutters.

• Seamless Gutters: As opposed to sectional gutters, seamless gutters are installed in one long piece, so they don’t have as many seams. They have a longer lifespan than sectional gutters.

Get Better, Simpler Gutters for Your Home

While your gutters probably aren't something you think about much, keeping them maintained is essential to prevent things like foundation flooding, water leaks, and more. Whether your current gutters are getting old and you need replacement, or you just want gutter guards to cut down on cleaning, Roofers of Minnesota can assist you!

Our experienced home contractors work with roofing and gutter systems, and we can install or upgrade your gutters. Call today at 612-205-4791 to request a free quote.