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When it comes to home maintenance, many homeowners neglect to clean their gutters as frequently as they should. Most professionals recommend that homeowners have their gutters cleaned at least twice per year, though this may not be enough if you live in an area with mature trees or a lot of rain. Improper maintenance and neglect of gutters can turn simple rainwater into thousands of dollars in repair costs. Here are just a few of the problems you could face if you don’t clean your gutters:

Roof Damage

The top of your roof is protected from rain by shingles or other coverings. Unfortunately, this doesn’t help the underside. When gutters are not cleaned often enough, debris that collects can cause water to splash onto the fascia boards of your roof. As these boards absorb water, it can lead to rot and mildew growth that can damage the frame of your roof or shorten the lifespan of your shingles.

Foundation Damage

Even worse than the damage to your roof is what happens to your foundation as water collects. The more rainwater that spills down the side of your roof onto the foundation, the quicker it takes on damage. Over time, water damage can break down entire portions of your foundation and cause walls to weaken. Fixing severe foundation damage can cost homeowners tens of thousands of dollars—something you can avoid with maintaining your gutters.

Basement Flooding

If you have a basement, having your gutters cleaned often is extremely important. Water from your roof can trickle into your basement and eventually cause floods and structural damage. Additionally, all the excess moisture becomes the perfect environment for mold and mildew spores to grow. Keeping water away from your home will keep your basement dry and mold-free.

Other Problems

It isn’t just the actual home itself that is at risk, either. Gutters and drain spouts are designed to take water away from the home and your yard. Landscaping can be affected by clogged gutters and lead to destroyed shrubbery, drowned grass, and loose soil.

Reach out to us today at Sussex County Roof Cleaning for a free quote! (973-948-2700)