Month: October 2020

How Bad Gutters Can Affect Your Roof

How Bad Gutters Can Affect Your Roof

Your gutters are an integral part of your home’s exterior. When it comes to your gutters, siding, and roof, you want them to be clean, whole, and well-maintained. However, poorly attended gutters can drastically impact your home health. This is how bad gutters can affect your roof.

Water Seepage

Water seepage is a serious problem that can move from your gutters to other places. Water trapped in your gutters can leak through gaps in your house’s exterior. Depending on the pitch and shape of your roof, water may creep up from the gutters to the roof itself, causing leaks that could move into your ceilings. If you begin noticing water damage on your ceilings, consider inspecting your gutters in addition to your roof. You will want to stop the problem at its source.

Mold and Mildew

Stagnant water that will not drain properly can cause mold to grow. This growth can then spread to your roof and other areas of your home. If there are holes or openings to the interior, you might find yourself with a serious mold problem in your walls—this poses a health risk to you and everyone else living in your home. You must protect your house from unwanted fungal growth like mold, mildew, algae, and moss.

Structural Damage

Bad gutters can affect your roof at the most basic levels. Structural damage to the roof is common when gutters are overflowing or clogged. This buildup is especially common after heavy rainfall, snow accumulation, or ice storms. Because your roof is not meant to bear this extra weight, the strain pulls on the foundational soffits and fascia. If these parts of your roof begin to bend or break, you could face significant repairs.

Understanding how bad gutters can affect your roof makes gutter installation and cleanliness an important aspect of homeownership. If you are looking for gutter installation in Columbia, MD, reach out to our professionals at Gutter Maid today!

What Is a Drip Edge and Why Is It Important

What Is a Drip Edge and Why Is It Important

When it comes to the roof over your head, you want to know if it is well-built and sustainable. One of the things that contribute to roof longevity is the drainage system. So, what is a drip edge and why is it important?

What Is a Drip Edge?

A drip edge is a piece of roofing trim that supports overhanging shingles. This angled piece of flashing helps redirect collected water from the fascia—that long board at the end of your roof—and into your gutters. Drip edges come in all shapes, colors, and material types. Because each roof has a slightly different angle, shape, and fit, the drip edge needs to be able to secure tight corners from damage. Also, the color options help you find the best matching style for your roof and home.

Why Is It Important?

The drip edge is an important part of every home because it serves to protect your roof. It helps prevent wood damage by adding a layer of protection from the elements. The drip edge redirects water to the gutters where it is designed to go. Without the drip edge, water can pool and flow in undesirable places. Altogether, the drip edge helps your roof last longer and saves you money long-term.

Do You Need It To Be Checked?

When it comes to your roof, you probably think about repairing or caring for it sparingly, especially since new roofs need only be installed every handful of years. However, it is critical to be aware of the state of your roof. If you need your roof, gutters, or drip edges checked, consider contacting gutter installation companies like us here at Gutter Maid. By staying on top of all wear and tear, you can prevent serious damage from occurring.

Hopefully by asking the questions, “what is a drip edge and why is it important,” you are better prepared to care for your roof. Reach out to a member of our team today if you have any more questions about drip edges, gutters, or leaf protection.

A Guide To Fall Gutter Maintenance

A Guide To Fall Gutter Maintenance

With fall comes a slew of home preparations for colder temperatures and falling leaves. Though it may be tiresome to rake your leaves during autumn, the task is a necessity, and it’s equally important to clean out your gutters as well. Here is a guide to fall gutter maintenance.