When it comes to home maintenance, people often pay attention to visible things such as leaking faucets, peeling paint, and clogged drains. However, one should never overlook the roof and gutter system because they are equally important parts of the home to maintain. A damaged gutter system can cause several problems to your roof and eventually lead to costly repairs. Here are five reasons why a damaged gutter system is terrible news for your roof.
Water Damage
The primary function of a gutter system is to channel water away from your roof. Damaged gutters can cause standing water on your roof, which can seep into the shingles, underlayment, and decking. Water damage can result in mold and mildew growth, deteriorated roof structures, and rotting fascia boards.
Ice Dams
In the winter months, damaged gutters can lead to ice build-up on your roof. Ice dams form when melted snow refreezes on the edges of the roof and gutters. As the ice grows, it blocks the gutters, preventing water from flowing off the roof. The water then seeps into the roof, causing water damage and creating a potential safety hazard.
Pest Infestations
Clogged and damaged gutters can become a cozy home for rodents, insects, and other pests. As these critters make their way into your gutters, they can cause significant damage, including nests, chewing through the gutters, and dislodging roofing materials. Rodent-caused damage can also cause rotting in the attic and other parts of your home.
Structural Damage
A damaged gutter system can result in damage to your home's structural integrity. Water damage caused by poorly maintained gutters can cause deformation, bowing, and sagging of your roofline. If left unchecked, this can cause the roofline to sink and become unstable, leading to expensive repairs to fix the issue.
Expensive Repairs
Repairing a damaged gutter system can be costly, but repairing a damaged roof caused by a faulty gutter system will be much more expensive. Tenant complaints, emergency repairs, and even lawsuits can arise from poorly maintained gutters that lead to damage to the property. As such, it is always better to invest in regular maintenance and upkeep of the gutter system to avoid such expenses, hassle, and stress.
The consequences of a damaged gutter system on your roof are severe. Water damage, structural issues, and pest infestations are just a few of the problems. Therefore, it is essential to maintain and repair your gutter system regularly, at least once a year, to keep it in tip-top shape and avoid potentially expensive consequences down the road. Partner with a reputable professional for regular maintenance and ensure that your gutter system is functioning correctly to keep your roof in excellent condition for years to come.
For more info about rain gutter system repair, contact a local company.