As functional features connected to a building’s structure, effective gutters can be imperative to protecting walkways, driveways, and other inconvenient areas from the accumulation of water when precipitation falls. This is why it’s very important for property owners to ensure that gutters are properly inspected on a regular basis. Since they minimize slip-and-falls and flooding, we all want to make sure that we’re doing our part to keep gutter fully-operable.
That being said, most individuals are unaware of the steps that go into a complete gutter inspection. How do you know that everything has been extensively checked? How do you know if you’re getting a good deal on a gutter inspection? Stay up-to-date on best practices with the following details.
Inspect Gutters Sections from Ground
Before a gutter inspector ascends the ladder, it’s best to visually inspect the gutter from the ground. It’s from this angle that individuals can look over the gutters’ slope and consistency. At this stage, it’s important to look for sections of gutters that look out of place, too low, too high, or out of line with the other sections. These issues could be remedied with adjusted gutter hangers, however, we must assess these elements first to know what issues need solving.
Clear Debris from Gutters and Downspouts
There are multiple ways to remove leaves and debris from a building’s gutters and downspouts. However, collecting a sturdy ladder, gloves, and a water hose make the process easier for oneself. After collecting these items, one can remove leaves and debris manually with their hands or they can use a water hose to dislodge any items housed in these areas. Note that completely removing debris and leaves from the downspouts will be impossible to do manually, so maybe use the hose as the first option regarding those. Once the debris is cleared, gutters and downspouts can be tested with experiments involving the water hose.
Check Gutters for Holes, Cracks, and Water Accumulation
Once debris is cleared, gutters and downspouts can be tested with experiments involving the water hose. Inspectors should put gutters to the test by pouring water into their highest points and inspecting the gutters for inconsistencies such as holes and cracks that water escapes through. If water seeps out of certain parts, then something isn’t completely sealed. This could be due to natural aging process gutters experience or a number of other factors. Just be sure to secure gutter-related products and solutions in order to fix the problem.
Also, inspect gutters for pools of accumulating water in specific parts of gutters. This could be indicative of alignment issues due to improper installation or simple wear-and-tear. However, pools of standing water disrupt the flow that gutters facilitate and can lead to larger issues with time. Look into solving these kinds of issues sooner rather than later.
Check Gutter Aprons for Gaps
The last step of a gutter inspection requires checking for gaps between the gutters themselves and the building they’re attached to. These two elements are usually connected by guards called gutter aprons. Inspectors can use water hoses and general observation techniques to determine whether or not gutter aprons are doing their job and feeding water and precipitation directly from rooftops to gutters. Once these elements have been assessed, a better understanding can be drawn about how a system of gutters works together.
At American Hill Country Gutters & Painting, we want to be your resource for gutter repair services, gutter installations, and painting services in Austin and San Antonio. For seamless gutter options, contact our team today.
