External damage from clogged gutters.
Concealed gutters problems.
Unclean gutters can lead to a whole host of problems if left untended to for long enough.
Problems with cast iron guttering.
When the water hits the gutter it freezes.
A leaf blower or a hose but make sure you wear goggles and a dust mask and heavy work gloves.
Where is the water going.
Here are the hidden dangers of unclean gutters that you should know about.
All gutters and especially aluminum gutters can be dented and deformed by impact or excessive pressure.
The issue of unwanted water entry from above leaking roofs overflowing gutters and downpipes and below flood or overflowing storm drains needs to be considered from the design phase.
The most common problem we see with gutters is clogging.
Displacement above a window.
This is one of the most serious issues with gutters specifically for homeowners in cold climates.
The foundation has a box like cross section.
The other issue is that many gutters do not have sufficient fall or worse still fall the wrong way.
The rot can extend up and into the wall frame.
Instead of attempting to repair this kind of damage it s usually best to replace the gutter.
Purchase a gutter cleaning kit that can connect to your leaf blower.
Leaking where the joints are.
Concealed guttering systems may leak back behind the exterior cladding and rot the exterior frame especially at the bottom plate.
When the water can t pass through properly it can start to cause problems with your foundation.
Concealed or internal fixed guttering is guttering fixed behind the fascia as opposed to a fascia board with the guttering fixed onto the outside surface.
This can result from a branch that falls on a gutter during a storm or from a ladder leaned against the gutter.
Ice dams are the result of snow melting off your roof and collecting in the gutter system.
Ways to clean your gutters.
Box gutters have a levelled classic four corner base.
Boxed gutters also known as concealed gutters keep a high edge throughout their entire length.
Not only can clogged gutters cause damage to the outside of your home they can also do a lot of internal damage.
Use a garden trowel or gutter scoop to clean it out by hand.
The ice continues to compile and an ice dam is born.