Don’t overlook this essential home maintenance task
It seems sunnier days and warmer temperatures are just around the corner after a surprisingly mild winter. Before you make plans to improve your home’s curb appeal or you decide to take on other DIY projects, The Insurance Center urges homeowners to focus their attention on a more pressing errand that could help prevent major damage to your home in the weeks and months ahead.
“Gutters and downspouts play an essential role in protecting homes from water damage, and the early spring usually provides the best window of opportunity to clean them,” said Robert J. Sammon, President of the Insurance Center. “Regardless of the reason they become clogged, homeowners should aim to clear their gutters at least twice year.”
The Process
Cleaning gutters is a relatively simple task that typically involves three steps. First, homeowners should place a ladder securely on the floor and next to the gutter they will be cleaning. Once it is placed, homeowners must climb the ladder and manually remove debris by hand. And finally, a hose with running water should be used to clear the remaining junk.
“Homeowners with a really high roof should not perform this task, and should call a contractor or roofer for assistance,” Sammon said. “Although it is an easy job to do, homeowners may not be used to being so high up. They could end up hurting themselves or other family members.
For an added measure, homeowners should also clean their downspouts. Downspouts are cleaned by shooting water up the downspout to unclog anything that might be stuck.
Why Gutter Maintenance is Necessary
By making sure these tasks are completed before the “spring showers” arrive, homeowners could be saving themselves from thousands of dollars in repairs. Clogged gutters cause damage to homes in several ways. Not only can they contribute to the formation of ice dams in the winter, gutters and downspouts that are not functioning properly could end up damaging a home’s foundation or siding if it is made of wood.
For those reasons, Sammon says, homeowners should prioritize cleaning the gutters.
Insurance Center agents are always available to help policyholders identify risks, and find the appropriate insurance solutions. Whether you need comprehensive auto, home, or business insurance, call 603-542-2551 to speak with one of our agents today.