Importance of Gutter Cleaning Services
Gutter cleaning is often the last thing on a homeowner’s mind until the gutters get clogged and stop working properly. For some, gutter cleaning is a seasonal task which takes a backseat and seems less important to more pressing house repairs which take precedence. However, what many don’t realize is that clean gutters can prevent several expensive and major home repairs. Therefore, a regularly scheduled cleaning service truly makes sense instead of considering it a seasonal home maintenance task.
Gutter maintenance is imperative to avoid the following problems:
Cracked Foundations and Basement Leaks
The number one reason for leaking basements and foundation cracks are clogged gutters. When gutters get clogged the water on the roof starts to overflow and accumulate around the foundation. If not fixed and repaired timely, the accumulated water then begins to weaken the foundation and walls.
Damaged Roof Sheathing and Rotting Wood
Debris tends to pile on the shingle line or flashing if gutters are not cleaned regularly. The debris holds moisture on the fascia board which affects the roof sheathing and also rots wood. Dirt and debris can also lead to mildew and mold problems that can damage the internal structure of your gutters.
Home to Pests
Fallen leaves on roof gutters can create standing water and invite pests like mosquitoes. Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. They use it to lay eggs, which can lead to bigger problems, such as dengue fever. Mosquitoes are also known to spread malaria and the West Nile Virus. Bugs also love moisture and other insects and rats also love making homes in gutter debris.
Furthermore, with the recent global outbreak of the Zika virus spreading to Singapore, many are taking preventive measures to stop the breeding of mosquitoes in their homes. Transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, the Zika virus is identical to dengue. A rare nervous system disorder, Guillain-Barré syndrome, that can cause temporary paralysis has been linked to the infection. Currently, there is no vaccine or drug treatment so patients are advised to rest and drink plenty of fluids.
As the Zika virus infection can cause microcephaly in the unborn foetus of pregnant women, we highly encourage families with pregnant women to seriously consider engaging a reliable cleaning company to conduct a thorough check of their premises for stagnant water (as the mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, often found in flower pots, buckets, pails etc), clogged gutters and to eradicate such problem areas promptly.
Sagging Driveways
Poor maintenance and clogged gutters can lead to water pooling on top of the driveway which can cause the driveway to sag and crack. It not only looks unattractive but comes with a high cost of repair too. Sagging concrete and driveways can also create problems for parked cars.
Damaged Walls
Walls of your home also become susceptible to water damage due to overflowing gutters. Water from the overflowing gutters run down and can penetrate the walls. And once the water goes inside the walls, it can easily rot them, affect the paint and studs and lead to mold. Black mold removal is not only an expensive complex procedure, but also extremely difficult to remove and get rid of. If not removed timely, it leads to health problems like nausea, respiratory infections and chronic coughing.
Professional Roof Gutter Cleaning
If you are a homeowner, then you need to get your roof gutters cleaned regularly instead of making it a seasonal task. Overlooking clogged gutters and leaving them untreated can lead to serious problems as discussed above and cost you big on damage repairs.
Remember, roof gutters can produce millions of mosquitoes each season. The Aedes mosquito is the culprit which transmits dengue, chikungunya and the Zika viruses – so do not risk your loved ones’ health by leaving your roof gutters clogged with dead leaves, debris and twigs, allowing stagnant water to accumulate and breed mosquitoes.
To avoid this situation and related problems, hire a professional gutter cleaning service today. A professional gutter cleaning company has the experience, the equipment and expertise to clean up clogged gutters in no time and ensure they work properly all year round. Call a professional today!