Maintenance Corner | Guard your gutters…

Here in Florida, where tree coverage, abundance of insects, almost daily rain showers and intense heat from the sun are yearlong, gutter guards are a necessity for the protection not only of your gutters, but also your home and yourself. If you are wondering whether gutter guards are essential, let me list some benefits that might help you see the importance of them. Homeowners know that gutter cleaning is not a fun job. It is one of those things that sometimes makes you wonder why you own a home. It is messy, smelly, miserable, and can sometimes be dangerous. Here are “potential deal closers”: 

Injury Prevention 

Did you know that there are over 500,000 injuries from ladder accidents that occur each year in our country? So, if you’re hesitant to climb that ladder, installing gutter guards could make gutter cleaning a thing of the past. 

Saves time, money and reduces maintenance 

Leaves, sticks and debris accumulate in gutters especially after rainstorms. Gutter guards strain these and prevent them from getting into the gutter restricting the water flow. What happens to gutters when there are no gutter guards, is that the wet leaves after storm get stuck in the gutter and over time continue to build up eventually stopping the water flow completely. This leads to further trouble in the future in the form of potential roof leaks, rot, and a terrible ordor from leaves decomposing. Also, by installing gutter guards, you will not have to hire a professional to drain and clean or worst-case scenario, having to DIY. While gutter guards, won't stop leaves and debris from accumulating, they will ease the cleaning process. ​ 

 When water can flow freely through gutters without obstructions, it helps keep downspouts functioning freely, preventing clogs. When there are gutter guards present, less material will make it through to the connection points. This is especially helpful if you have a rainwater collection system. Not only will your tank fill quicker, but it will be better filtered.  

Fire Prevention  

​Florida, as you know, gets very hot and at times have droughts. Living in the Sunshine State is also an opportunity to have barbecues an bonfires. These situations put your home at a greater fire risk. The accumulation of leaves in gutters that have dried become kindling when they come in contact with floating embers. These embers can light into a flame and quickly spread over the roof of your home. Gutter guards can help prevent this buildup of flammable material and reduce your risk of fire. Though the risk may seem minimal, it is something to keep in mind. 

Protection Against Corrosion 

​Leaves loaded with moisture that get stuck in gutters, cause corrosion. Rust and corrosion are “gutter and roof killers” and become significant problems. When gutters become clogged, they start to overflow with leaves and water from rain onto your roofline. As this process continues, algae and mold start to develop in your roofing, quickly deteriorating the structural integrity of your roof.  As gutters are in constant contact with the moisture from leaves, they become rusty. Once gutters become rusty, they develop holes throughout the system causing leaks at various points along the roof and siding. These leaks become significant water damage to wood becoming expensive repairs. Gutter guards can add several years to the life of your gutter system and roof. 

Although in Florida, we do not necessarily deal with the harsh northern winters, we still have days of freezing temperatures. During these freezing  temperatures, water or moisture present in your gutters will freeze and cause gutter dams. Although gutter guards alone can’t prevent these dams, they can significantly reduce ice buildup. The weight of ice buildup causes strain and eventually damage on the gutter system by pulling it away from the structure of the home. 

Even in our warm and hot Florida months, the guards help keep water from flowing down the sides of your home and behind the siding. Water overflow causes extensive structural damage and contributes to mold and mildew growth. Overflowing gutters can also stain the siding and even damage the foundation of the home. 

Although in Florida, we do not necessarily deal with the harsh northern winters, we still have days of freezing temperatures. During these freezing  temperatures, water or moisture present in your gutters will freeze and cause gutter dams. Although gutter guards alone can’t prevent these dams, they can significantly reduce ice buildup. The weight of ice buildup causes strain and eventually damage on the gutter system by pulling it away from the structure of the home. 

Brush, leaves and debris in gutters become nesting material for rodents and insects. Even standing water becomes a haven for mosquitos. Reducing the amount of nesting material is one of the benefits of having gutter guards. It discourages vermin from making your gutter system their place of residence and breeding ground. Gutter guards also act as a barrier against small creatures like squirrels and lizards that might squeeze their way behind the gutters and fascia of your roof and into the attic of your house. 

 A Worthwhile Investment 

There are many great products available for your gutter system and there is an initial cost involved. But, as you can see, gutter guards are a worthwhile investment. Not only do they pay for themselves over long term by protecting your investment but also add resale value to your home.  

No need to look at a list of property management companies! If you are interested in Gainesville FL Property Management please contact us. We can be easily reached here on our website by completing the contact form above on the right. You can also email us at [email protected] or via phone (call or text) 352-478-8029.