Gutters & Downspouts: Home Owner Tips

I was at a house earlier today that had a significant amount of wood rot around windows and doors due to an absence of flashing as well as gutters and downspouts that need attention too.

When I went into the basement, I noticed that a far corner of cinder-block wall appeared wet.  I suspect the cause of all these things can be blamed on overflowing gutters and an absence of flashing.

As you know if you are a regular reader of this blog, my daily experiences when I am out and about  visiting properties often influence what a write about each day in this blog. 

Power Home Remodeling Group offers the following Home Owner Tips.

As you probably know, your home requires maintenance on many areas and your gutters and downspouts are no exception. 

Seamless Gutters -- How to Maintain
You should clean out your gutters 2 to 3 times per year and probably more often than that if you live under a group of pine trees.  Working to keep your gutters clear of debree will ensure that they stay free flowing and will keep the exterior surfaces from staining.

Every few years you should do a tune up on your gutters and downspouts, such as resecuring and repitching gutters, resealing corners, and reattaching loose downspouts and elbows.

Check to make sure your splash blocks are angled so the water flows away from the foundation of the house.  DO NOT angle them towards any walk or driveway since this could cause a slipping hazard.

How To Tell if Your Gutters are Clogged
Are your gutters overflowing?
Is there restricted flow of water from your downspouts?
Do you see ground erosion below the gutter line?
Do you see leaky corners?
Is there discoloration (not dirt, mold or mildew) on the gutters?

Clogged gutters will cause the corners to leak.  As a result, the gutters will pull away and eventually fall off.  Clogged gutters cause wet basements, mold and mildew, ruined landscaping, and the stagnant water will cause an insect infestation.

Sara Hibbard is a licensed Realtor in the state of Georgia and works with several Georgia Inspectors who she says have helped her learn about the various problems affecting properties.  Sara actively points out active problems as well as potential problems to her clients while visiting properties.  I truly don't want any client of mine to make a bad decision.  Sara Hibbard is always happy to answer your many questions regarding the Atlanta metro real estate market in general or specifics regarding the buying / selling / relocation process.  Feel free to call Sara Hibbard anytime at 404-660-2481 or e-mail Sara at Sara@SaraHibbard.com.  Visit Sara's websites at www.SaraHibbard.com, www.SaraHibbardRealEstate.com, www.AtlantaMLSHomes.com.  Sara is also on Facebookwww.Facebook.com/GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind and www.YouTube.com/GeorgiaRealEstate1 

Sara Hibbard is Glad Georgia Real Estate is on Your Mind!