The frequency of roof gutter cleaning depends on several factors, such as the amount of foliage around your building, the age and condition of your gutter system, and how much rainwater flows off of your roof.
If you have no idea how often gutter cleaning should be done, here’s a rule of thumb–experts recommend having your gutters inspected twice a year, once in the spring during the rainy season and again in late summer for debris that could have built up over the warmer months.
Cleaning should also be done after severe storms, which could cause large amounts of debris and leaves in gutters. If not removed promptly, these materials can block water flow and eventually lead to clogs.
Sometimes, though, even if you know how often to clean gutters, there are instances where you will need the help of professionals, like if you have a gutter system over 10 years old. No amount of cleaning will compensate for the fact that the structure’s integrity is compromised from all the years of wear and tear. Additionally, if your commercial property is located somewhere with a lot of trees, the amount of debris entering your gutters may be too much for just twice-yearly cleaning. In this case, consider cleaning more frequently. If you notice water overflowing or pooling around the area during rainstorms, it is also likely that your gutters are clogged and need attention right away.
By taking these steps, you can help ensure they are working correctly and protecting your commercial space as they should. Doing so will save you money in the long run and likewise protect your investment from potential replacements or overhauls.
What Are the Worst Things That Can Happen If You Neglect Your Roof Gutters?
Neglecting roof gutter maintenance for your property can lead to some serious problems. When gutters become clogged with debris, it can lead to potential flooding and basement seepage. If your commercial space has a lower parking area, this can easily turn into a serious problem. The overflow of water not only causes damage to the foundation itself but can lead to costly repairs for damaged walls and floors in other areas of the property.
In addition, a backed-up gutter system can cause rainwater to pool around the exterior, which increases the risk of wood rot, mould growth, and insect infestation. If left untreated, these issues could require expensive treatments or replacements down the line. Furthermore, if you let your gutter system remain clogged long enough, it can weaken the roof’s structure and cause water to penetrate through cracks, endangering the entire property. By regularly having your commercial gutters cleaned, you can prevent all of these costly problems.
Moreover, one of the most alarming concerns of neglected gutter systems in commercial spaces is the risk of collapsing roofs. As debris accumulates and water stagnates, the weight that the gutters have to bear increases substantially. This added weight strains the brackets and fasteners that hold the gutter to the building. Over time, this can lead to a section of the roof or the entire gutter system collapsing. Such incidents not only result in hefty repair costs but also pose a significant risk of injuries to employees, visitors, or tenants present in the vicinity. It’s imperative to prioritize regular gutter maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of your commercial establishment.
Should Gutter Cleaning Frequency Change Based on the Season?
The simple answer is yes, gutter cleaning should be done regularly, regardless of the season. Apart from property damage, water stains from clogged gutters can also make your property look dingy and unappealing to guests, tenants, or even potential investors.
However, there are certain seasons during which you may need to pay closer attention to your gutter cleaning needs for optimal performance.
In the fall season, it is crucial to keep an eye out for leaves and other debris that accumulate in gutters over time. During this season, trees shed their leaves into nearby gutters, causing blockages that prevent proper drainage. In addition, during spring months, critter nests or excrement can also block gutters. There are even instances where complete plant root systems are found in these areas.
This is why it’s important to clean your gutters once at the end of fall after all leaves have dropped and again during the early spring months before the temperatures start to get too warm.
Why You Should Hire a Professional to Clean Your Gutters
Gutters are an essential part of your building’s exterior infrastructure and should be adequately maintained to ensure they continue to function correctly. Hiring a professional roof gutter cleaner is one of the best ways to ensure your gutters remain intact for years to come.
Gutter cleaners have the right tools and experience needed to safely clean out gutters without causing any harm to the worker or damage to the property. They also understand how important it is for gutters to remain clear and can assess any issues they may find while cleaning them. Professionals also follow safety procedures and use protective gear, such as ladders and harnesses (especially important if your building has several floors), to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
A gutter cleaning company can also provide advice as to what type of protection your gutters may need and even suggest ways that you can help prolong their life. Professional gutter cleaners are trained to help maintain your gutters, preventing clogging or damage before it happens. This can save you time and money down the line by avoiding costly repairs or replacements.
Overall, hiring pro commercial gutter cleaners is an integral part of protecting your business space from water damage and ensuring that your gutters remain in good working condition. They help keep your gutters free from debris while offering valuable advice on how best to protect them for years to come.
Schedule a Commercial Gutter Cleaning Service
Maybe you don’t have the time, the proper equipment or the patience to clean your commercial gutters. Whatever your reasons are, we understand why you choose to hire a professional to work on your roof. O’Brien Maintenance Group provides gutter cleaning services as well as commercial solar cleaning and pressure washing services that are second to none. Don’t hesitate to call us for assistance; we’re more than happy to help keep your gutters looking and working like new!