North Carolina and South Carolina, like many U.S. states, experience seasonal storms on an annual basis. For residents who live in coastal Carolina towns, hurricanes can be of particular concern, but severe storms can also impact inland areas of both states. When it comes to storm preparedness, your home’s gutters might be the last thing on your mind, but there are actually some important steps you should take to get them ready.
As you read this brief guide, you’ll learn how to prep your gutters for whatever lies ahead this storm season and beyond. Even if you’re already doing some of the things outlined here, refreshing your memory about exactly what steps you should take each year is never a bad thing!
Have your gutter system professionally cleaned.
While some homeowners prefer to clean their gutters themselves, it is wise to have your gutter system cleaned and inspected by reputable professionals every year before storm season begins. This way, all leaves, twigs, lawn waste, and other debris can be properly cleared before serious rainfall levels begin to accumulate.
If your gutters are in the best possible condition going into storm season, they will be able to effectively drain rainwater, preventing your home from suffering water damage and potential structural damage.
However, it is worth noting that semi-annual cleanings are typically recommended for homeowners in the Carolinas, so you should also schedule a second appointment with your gutter cleaning professional each year. And, if you reside in a heavily wooded area, such as in the mountains of North Carolina, three or four cleanings might be advisable.
Make sure there is no existing damage.
All gutter systems have a lifespan, so it is important to make sure there is no existing damage to your gutters before storm season arrives every year. If, for example, any of your gutter troughs are sagging or have begun to rust, a good cleaning won’t necessarily do the trick. You might have to invest in replacement gutters to keep your home in top condition.
Take a look at your downspouts.
Most homeowners know that obvious gutter damage, like the sagging and rusting mentioned above, can be problematic. However, downspouts are an oft-overlooked part of gutter systems. Before storm season, take a look at your downspouts to ensure that they are properly draining rainwater away from your house.
Ideally, downspouts should be a minimum of three feet away from the foundation of a house. This ensures that pooling water doesn’t cause structural damage, such as basement flooding, foundation cracks and crumbling, and even sloping interior floors.
Downspouts are typically part of any standard gutter inspection, but it is also a good idea to look at them yourself. This way, if you have any concerns, you can speak to your gutter professional about them specifically.
If you are ready to talk gutters, the Hatch Homes crew is here for you. Contact our office to learn more about all of the North Carolina and South Carolina remodeling services we offer. We are here to help you have the best possible renovation experience.