Why You Should Check Your Gutters When It’s Raining
Wisconsin is considered drier than most states. It averages 34 inches of rainfall every year, compared to the national average of 38 inches annually. But that’s more than enough rainfall to help you check the rain gutters, downspouts, and water drainage systems thoroughly.
According to trusted gutter and roofing contractors Bruce Andrews Seamless Gutters, LLC, the best time to inspect your gutters is when it’s raining. You’ll want to know if they’re working correctly and safely diverting rainwater away from your roof, shingles, and house foundation. The most convenient way to do that is to observe whether the water is flowing evenly through the gutters.
Why check the gutters when it’s raining?
If you’re looking for the best time to check whether your gutters are functioning correctly, wait for rainy days. The rain naturally exposes existing and potential gutter problems, such as the following:
- Overflowing water from the gutter system
- Water leakage in specific sections of the gutter
- Water leakage between the gutter and the fascia
- Rainwater pooling around the property’s foundation
The rainwater makes it easier to spot these problems that are often caused by clogged, cracked, or damaged gutters. Other potential causes are incorrect gutter installation and gutter systems that are too small. So, get ready to check for gutter leaks and related concerns once the rainy season arrives.
How do you check for gutter leaks?
When your gutters are dry, you can only guess how well the system works. It’s difficult to tell how they handle heavy rain. So, regularly clean your gutters — at least once in the spring and once in the fall — to get rid of leaves, twigs, and debris that could cause clogging. And next time it’s raining, observe the following:
- Gutters: The gutters should be able to contain rainwater, except for massive rainstorms.
- Downspouts: The water should flow freely through downspouts without leaks along the way.
- Flow Zones: Make sure the water is flowing away from the property foundation.
It’s easier to detect problem areas like blockages, loose rivets, gutter connection gaps, cracks, and holes when there’s actual rainwater flowing through the system. It’s also easier to spot sagging gutters and determine whether they’re loose or need a replacement when you can observe the actual water flow.
Note these problem areas. Then, when the weather is dry and sunny again, call in a professional to assess and address the situation for you.
Hire a Reliable Rain Gutter Company
It’s important to look after rain gutters because they protect your property’s structural integrity by directing water away from the external walls and foundation. If the gutters aren’t well-maintained, the structure is more prone to mold growth and water damage.
Contact our experienced team for rain gutter repair or replacement. We can also install a LeafLock gutter protection system to keep your gutters debris-free.
Our gutter services are available in over 40 cities throughout Minneapolis and Wisconsin. Fill out our contact form or call us at (877) 594-7449 to get a free estimate and assessment.
