Gutters/Downspouts

A Dry Idea: You'll need to get on the ladder to inspect and clean all the gutters. Climbing ladders and can be dangerous. If you are not comfortable climbing ladders, call an expert to perform the inspection. Pesky debris (leaves, needles, and seedlings) can be minimized with gutter and downspout screens, available from most hardware stores. One effective method for pinpointing trouble spots is to walk around the house during a heavy rain. Rain will reveal how water flows from the roof into gutters and away from your house.

□ Look for loose joints. Clean and recaulk as necessary and replace rusted screws.

□ Clean gutters with a blower, hose or small broom. Using a hose stream will help pinpoint leaks and other trouble spots. Use gutter caulk on leaking joints or replace sections according to manufacturer’s instructions.

□ Downspouts should drain away from the house. If the downspouts dead-end near the foundation, install splash blocks to direct water away from the foundation.

□ If draining to a dry well, clear out roots and debris.