Prepare Your Gutters for Drought: Guide to Proper Maintenance
As the summer season approaches, Oklahoma City residents brace themselves for the scorching heat and the dry spell that comes with it. With the hot weather, preparing your gutters for the drought season is essential to ensure they function correctly during rainfall, prevent water damage to your home and save you from costly repairs.
Why Care about Your Gutters during a Drought?
During a drought, your rain gutter is the first line of defense against water damage to your home. When it rains, it directs the water away from your home’s foundation, preventing it from seeping into the basement and causing structural damage. However, gutters in OKC become dry and brittle during drought.
The lack of rain and moisture can cause debris, such as leaves, twigs and dirt, to accumulate in your gutters, leading to clogging. Clogged drains can cause water to overflow onto your home’s siding, causing water damage and even flooding. In addition, stagnant water there can attract mosquitoes and other insects, leading to a pest infestation in your home.
Right Time for Cleaning Your Gutters
The best time to clean your rain gutters is spring or fall. Cleaning them in the spring prepares them for the upcoming summer season while washing them in the fall removes debris accumulated during the summer months.
In Oklahoma City, the best time to clean your gutters is during the spring months of April and May. During this time, the weather is mild and there is little to no rainfall, making it easier to clean your gutters without worrying about getting wet. It’s also essential to clean your gutters before the summer season starts, as the hot and dry weather can make it more challenging to remove debris.
Understanding Your Gutter’s Condition
Inspecting your gutters as much as possible can help you understand their condition and avoid damage to your home. Here are a few signs to look out for:
Visible Damage – Check your gutters for visible damage, such as cracks, holes, or rust. These damages can cause water to leak and cause damage to your home’s foundation.
Sagging Gutters – If gutters are sinking, it could be a sign that they are clogged with debris or damaged. It’s essential to address this issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your home.
Stagnant Water – If you notice water standing in your gutters, it could be a sign that it is clogged or a problem with the slope of your gutters. That can cause water to overflow and damage your home’s foundation.
Loose Gutters – Loose gutters can cause water to leak through gaps between them and your home, leading to water damage.
It’s essential to address these issues as soon as possible to prevent damage to your home. Regularly cleaning and inspecting it can help avoid these issues and ensure its functions correctly during the drought season.
Contact Us for Professional Gutter Cleaning and Repair Services Today!
Caring for your gutters during a drought is essential to prevent water damage to your home and save you from costly repairs. Regularly cleaning and inspecting your gutters can help you understand their condition and avoid damage to your home.
If you need help with gutter cleaning or repair, contact Red River Roofing Siding & Windows. Our team of professionals can help you prepare your gutters for the drought season and ensure they function correctly.
