4 Risks That You Face If You Neglect Gutter Maintenance During Dry Weather
Some homeowners may think that they only need to clean and maintain the rain gutters on their homes when rainy weather is about to start. Such homeowners may not know that they face several risks if they don't give adequate attention to cleaning the gutters during the dry season. This article discusses some of those risks.
Risks of Detached Gutters and Downspouts
The dry weather may create conditions that favour the accumulation of dust and debris within the gutter system. Such dust can become so heavy that it will cause the gutters and the downspouts to break away from their anchors on the wall and roof of the house. The detached gutters and downspouts may sustain irreparable damage when they fall due to the weight of the accumulated dirt that you forgot to clean out.
Risks of Leaks
Another danger of accumulated debris is the risk of chemical attacks on the gutter system. The dust and debris that collects in the gutters can be moistened by dew during the night. That limited moisture can cause acidic compounds to form from the different minerals or substances contained in the dust or tree leaves that have collected in the gutters. The acidic solution formed can corrode the gutters and cause holes to develop. Those holes will later allow water to drain through once the rainy season begins.
Risks of Disease Spread
The accumulated dirt and debris in the gutters may attract different creatures to live within the gutter system. For instance, birds may nest within the leaves in the gutters. Insects may also be attracted to feed on the rotting matter inside your gutters. Such forms of life may habour different microorganisms that may find their way into your home as wind keeps blowing them during the dry weather. Such microorganisms may pose a threat to the health of your family.
Risks of Clogs
Accumulated debris during the dry season can start making its way into the different components of the roof drainage system, such as the downspouts. That debris can form clogs that may be very hard to dislodge if the problem is left until the last minute when rainy weather is approaching. You may end up being compelled to call professionals to clean out those stubborn blockages.
As you can see, the dry weather presents several opportunities for the gutters on your roof to be compromised. It is therefore important for you to have a regular programme of gutter maintenance so that you avoid the risks discussed above. It may also be helpful for you to hire guttering experts to evaluate the condition of your gutters before extreme weather sets in.