While a gutter is very useful in directing rain water away from your commercial building, it can accumulate dry leaves and other debris causing it to clog. When there is too much debris in the gutter it traps water causing the gutter to rust and break away. Additionally, if the water does not drain from the gutter it can lead to ice damming and damage, forcing you to replace the gutter. Many small animals and insects can also decide to build nests and homes among the debris accumulated in the gutter as well. 1. Benefits of Cleaning Your Gutters
2. Contributing Factor
Gutters become clogged because of the fallen leaves and other debris that accumulates on the roof of the commercial building. This is washed into the gutter when it rains. Additionally, small animals such as squirrels and birds might decide to nest among the debris and leave their dropping in the gutter. The presence of organic matter and water leads to the formation of mold, which contributes to the further clogging of the gutter as well.
3. Timing is Everything - Best Time of Year to Clean Your Gutters
As with other building maintenance tasks, the timing of cleaning the gutters can help prolong its life and minimize other damage. The gutters should be cleaned twice a year, at the beginning of fall and at the beginning of spring. If you clean the gutters at the beginning of fall, the leaves will still be dry and easier to remove. Additionally, when the precipitation occurs, the water will flow freely through the gutter and into the down spout ensuring little or no damage to the gutter. Also, because there is no debris to be washed into the down spout, this will not become clogged, making it easier to clean it out. Cleaning the gutters in early spring will again prepare it for directing the water brought in by the spring rains (if you live in an area that rains heavily or at all).
You do not want to be cleaning your gutters in the middle of August. First off, that is the hottest part of the year so you will be miserable performing a chore such as this in that heat. In addition, it also means you have waited too long to clean and unclog your gutters which means for months now your gutters have been holding up more weight than it should have been and you have also given plenty of time for bugs and critters to find some room to settle in. None of these factors are a good thing.
4. Beyond Cleaning - Time to Replace Your Gutters?
Even as you clean the gutters you should examine their condition. If the gutter is coming loose, it can be re-fixed to the sides of the roof. However, if the wear and tear of the accumulated debris and water has caused rusting and major damage, you should replace the gutter. Older gutters made of iron are prone to rusting and should be replaced with aluminum or other gutters that are rust proof. This will not only make it easier to clean the gutter later on, but enhance the curb appeal of your business.
5. Find a Gutter Cleaner
Cleaning the gutters is a time consuming and physically challenging task. If you do not have the time or the inclination to carry a ladder around your home cleaning out the gutters, you should consider retaining the services of a
A business owner has the responsibility of keeping every part of their business in working order. This is in the interests of both the upkeep of the business and the health and safety of the tenants or employees. A clogged gutter can lead to plenty of unpleasant incidents and cause the spread of diseases. By taking steps to clean the gutter twice a year, scheduling this for early fall and spring, you can be sure that rain water will be diverted away from your home and into the storm water drains.
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