Signs That the Guttering Around Your Roof Needs Repairs
Your roof protects you and your family from nature's elements such as wind, sun, hail and rain. However, the roof can't do it alone, particularly when it comes to rain. After rainwater flows down the roof cladding, it needs to be sent in the right direction. That's where the guttering helps, providing channels to guide the water around the house perimeter and through the downpipes.
If the gutters aren't functioning, water can seep into the roof cavity and the walls to create rot, dampness, and mould. Plus, rain can flood the garden. That's why you should keep a watch out for the following signs of gutter problems.
Waterfalls from Your Roof
If you notice rainwater cascading over the gutters, then they might be blocked or corroded. As water flows down the external cladding, it can damage the walls, particularly timber weatherboards which are prone to rotting. As well, dirty, splashing rain will spread mud and debris across your house, imparting a dirty look.
Green Gutters
Some people deliberately cultivate a green roof, covered in foliage and plants, to create an energy-efficient home. However, if your gutters become home to plant life, they're in trouble. Though foliage cannot sprout in metal, decomposing leaves and dirt create the perfect environment for weeds. Of course, a gutter garden will block the flow of rainwater and lead to problems.
Nesting Birds
At different times of the seasons, you may notice birds picking up twigs and bits of grass from the ground to build a nest in a nearby tree. Unfortunately, at times they can choose the guttering as a perfect place to construct their nest. If the gutters are full of leaves, they merge with the natural landscape. Their nest, though, will hinder rainwater from reaching the downpipes.
Sagging Gutters
Another sign to look out for is gutters that sag and hang rather than attach securely to your house. If they're full of dirt, leaves, plant life, and nests, they get heavy. You may notice stress in particular where the gutter pipes join. Rainwater overspilling the gutters can pool around your home's foundations, possibly weakening them. Thus, you should arrange for a roof plumber to investigate as soon as possible.
While guttering looks deceptively simple in sending rain along its channels and through the downpipes, its role in protecting your home is crucial. The roof cladding prevents rain from seeping into the rooms below, but that's only half the job. That rainwater has to be redirected safely away, which is what the guttering achieves.
For more information, contact a local roof plumber.