How To Fix Your Gutters and Downspouts for Fall

Published On: September 26, 2016Categories: Plumbing
Man cleaning the gutter from autumn leaves

Fall is in the air, and with the change in the weather comes the time to make sure that your gutters and downspouts are prepared for fall. Heavy rains and cold winds will be coming through Ohio before you know it and you’ll want to take the proper precautions in order to protect your home’s foundation and exterior during the fall season. Not sure how exactly to prepare your gutters and downspouts? The Waterworks has a few easy tips for you to follow!

Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts
The first step to getting ready for the fall season is thoroughly cleaning out your gutters. Before the weather gets too chilly, climb up a sturdy ladder and hose them down. After hosing down your gutters, point the hose down toward the downspouts and clean those out as well. Remove any debris that has built up at the bottom of the downspouts.

Inspect for Cracks, Leaks, and Corrosion
After flushing out your gutters and downspouts, you’ll want to inspect them for any visible cracks, leaks, and corrosion. Look carefully and run your fingers along the surface in order to find any signs. If you find a spot that you are unsure about, you can pour in some water and see if it leaks. If it is a small leak, you can most likely take care of it with a sealant. However, if it looks like a bigger leak, and better yet if you are still unsure, you should consider getting your gutters professionally inspected.

Install Gutter Guards
Installing gutter guards is a great idea, especially if your gutters are near trees with a significant amount of leaves that will be falling. These guards will add an extra layer of protection to your home’s exterior and keep out leaves, pine needles, and rodents.

While you may prefer to take care of cleaning out your gutters yourself, it is never a bad idea to hire a professional in order to ensure that everything is working properly and that you will make it through the cold seasons safely. Feel free to call us today and schedule an appointment if you are interested!

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