Maryland has had plenty of rain this year, which means that your gutters have been working overtime. Gutters are designed to direct rainwater away from your home, but when they become clogged with leaves, debris, or anything else stopping the flow of water, they can no longer do their job. This can lead to a broad range of problems, including basement flooding and serious foundation issues. How can clean gutters prevent flooding in your home?
How Gutters Work to Protect Your Basement and House
Gutters serve as your home’s first line of defense against water damage. When they are working properly, they move rainwater off of the roof and away from the house, typically into downspouts that lead water safely away from the foundation. This prevents water from pooling around the base of your home, where it can seep into the soil and, eventually, into your basement or foundation. Gutters should always be professionally chosen and installed to ensure that they are appropriately designed for your home.
What Can Happen When Gutters Are Clogged?
- Basement Flooding: Water pooling near your home’s foundation can easily find its way into the basement. Basements are particularly vulnerable to flooding because they are below ground level. Even a small amount of water seeping into the basement can lead to significant damage, including ruined flooring, stained walls, and wet personal belongings.
- Foundation Damage: The foundation of your home is designed to support the entire structure, so its integrity is critical. Water that accumulates around the foundation due to gutter flooding can erode the soil, which will eventually lead to shifts and cracks. Over time, this can compromise the stability of your foundation. In extreme cases, a weakened foundation can even threaten the safety of the entire structure.
- Soil Erosion: When water overflows from your gutters, it doesn’t just collect near the foundation; it also erodes the surrounding soil. This erosion can lead to further foundation issues and impact the landscaping around your home. While soil erosion can be remedied, keeping your gutters clean can help you avoid it entirely.
- Mold and Mildew Growth: Water that seeps into your basement or other parts of your home can create a damp environment that encourages mold and mildew growth. Aside from doing damage to materials that you store in your basement, mold and mildew can also harm your health.
How Gutter Maintenance Can Prevent Problems
The key to avoiding these problems is regular gutter maintenance. By keeping your gutters clean and free of debris, you will ensure that water can flow freely away from your home. Check your gutters at least twice a year, typically in the spring and fall, to ensure they are clear of debris. If you live in an area with a lot of trees, you may need to inspect them more frequently. You can rely on Clean Sweep Maryland to help clear out leaves, twigs, and other debris that can clog the gutters. We can also help to identify potential issues, such as sagging gutters or damaged downspouts, that may lead to water damage.
Keep Your Home Dry with Clean Sweep Maryland
Call Clean Sweep Maryland today at 410-558-1111 for professional chimney sweep, slate roofing, and duct cleaning services designed to keep all your listed properties clean and safe for sellers and buyers. If you are a prospective home buyer or home seller in need of chimney inspection or repairs, we are here to help.