Not maintaining your gutters can lead to leaks, water damage, cracked foundations, and flooding. The maintenance can be tedious and messy, but it will save you a lot of money on repairs later on. Here are some gutter maintenance tips before storm season hits Oklahoma.

Make Sure your Gutters are Attached

When checking if the gutters are properly attached, you need to make sure the spikes go through the gutter, into the wall, and through the rafters. You may need to replace the spikes if they’ve come detached. Check the caulking between the walls and gutters too. If it’s old, scrape and reseal it. The caulk’s seal keeps water from getting into the siding and boards and damaging it. 

Check for Holes in the Gutter

Checking for holes is easiest when it’s raining. You need to look at the gutters and cracks between the seams of each piece. 

Gutter Guards

Gutter guards are an investment, but they will save you so much money and time. The guards prevent debris from building up in your gutters. Think about installing these next time you clean your gutters. 

Inspect Your Downspouts

Water should flow freely in the downspouts, and the rivets should be in the right place. If the rivets need replacing, you’ll need special equipment so keep that in mind!

Rust Means New Gutters

Rust on your gutters means they are old and need replacing. What’s better is that modern gutters are made of aluminum or vinyl, which makes them rust-resistant!

Make Sure the Splash Block is Working

The splash block is the piece under your downspouts that directs water away from the foundation. You need to get a new one if you don’t have one or the current one is broken. Otherwise, water can seep into the ground and hurt your foundation.

Call Bailey’s Roofing and Construction in Ada if you need help with gutter maintenance or think it is time for some new ones.