Autumn is a busy time for homeowners. There are many tasks required to prepare a house and property for winter. Perhaps no duty is more important, however, than tending to rain gutters and downspouts. It’s imperative that they be cleaned and freed of any leaves, twigs or other debris. Failing to do so could result in the following serious problems.
Foundation Damage
Clogged or broken gutters and downspouts cause water to pool around the base of the home. As it seeps into the ground, it increases the amount of stress and pressure placed on the foundation, which will eventually result in the formation of cracks. The water then makes its way into the cracks where it further weakens the structure and also enters the basement.
At this point, you will be experiencing physical damage to the interior and exterior of the home. The excess moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can quickly spread throughout the home, as well as exacerbate respiratory problems for those exposed. If you suspect your home may be in danger from clogged gutters, perform a safety check to identify the need for foundation crack repair Tulsa OK or in your area. If a cracked foundation is left uncorrected, you could be faced with a catastrophic collapse.
Risk of Injury
Serious drainage issues result from clogged gutters, and it can be quite noticeable in the winter. When the temperature is low enough, the backed-up water spills out from over the gutter and onto walking surfaces, where it freezes into a thick sheet of ice. That greatly increases the risk of slipping and falling, which is the most frequent nonfatal injury among nearly every age bracket. The clogged, freezing water also can form into icicles, which poses an injury risk to anyone standing beneath them.
Nobody enjoys cleaning gutters, but it’s a necessary task to preserve the safety and integrity of your home. Consider the seriousness of a potential foundation repair the next time you need motivation.
