Gutters often get overlooked until it’s too late. On the Westside of Cincinnati, one homeowner discovered just how important proper gutter maintenance really is when a routine cleaning turned into a much bigger issue. Here’s the story of how a simple gutter cleaning job turned into a lesson about how neglecting gutters can cause real damage to your home, and how you can avoid the same mistakes.
A Simple Gutter Cleaning Job Turns Into a Big Problem
When a homeowner on the Westside called us at Empire Contractors to clean out their gutters, we expected it to be a typical job. Leaves, twigs, debris, basically the usual suspects. But once our technician got up there to inspect the gutters, it quickly became clear that this wasn’t just a simple cleaning.
“The gutters were sagging and pulling away from the house. The fascia board had started peeling off, and water had been collecting in places it shouldn’t,” our technician explained. “It was obvious that the gutters weren’t functioning properly, and it wasn’t just about cleaning out some debris anymore. This was a gutter maintenance issue that hadn’t been addressed.”
Finding Hidden Damage
As the technician took a closer look, the issue was much bigger than anticipated. The water was pooling and spilling over the edges because the home was missing a crucial component: a gutter apron.
What’s a gutter apron? It’s a piece of metal flashing that runs along the roof’s edge, helping to direct rainwater into the gutters and away from the roofline. Without it, the water doesn’t flow properly and ends up spilling over, causing damage to the home’s fascia, soffit, and foundation.
“Without that simple component, water was getting into places it shouldn’t have,” our technician said. “It was just a small piece missing, but it was enough to cause significant damage. This is why regular gutter maintenance is key to preventing such issues.”
Replacing Gutters and Adding the Gutter Apron
Once we understood the full scope of the issue, it was clear that a simple cleaning wouldn’t cut it. The gutters were old and in poor shape, so the best solution was to replace them entirely. And when it came to the new installation, adding a gutter apron was non-negotiable.
“We replaced the gutters with new ones and made sure to install a gutter apron,” our technician said. “That little piece ensures water flows directly into the gutter, keeping everything in place and preventing damage to the roof and fascia. This is exactly the kind of fix that gutter maintenance is all about.”
By making these repairs, the homeowner’s gutters were not only cleaned but also fully upgraded to handle whatever Cincinnati’s weather throws at them.
Why Gutter Maintenance Is So Important in Cincinnati
Cincinnati’s weather is tough on homes. With heavy rains, freezing temperatures in the winter, and fluctuating seasons, your gutters are constantly exposed to the elements. If gutters aren’t properly maintained, they can quickly go from a helpful system to a cause of significant damage. Clogged, sagging gutters, or missing components like the gutter apron, can lead to everything from water damage to mold growth and foundation issues.
Maintaining your gutters doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s how you can keep them working properly and avoid problems like the one this homeowner faced:
- Schedule Regular Inspections
If you’re unsure about the condition of your gutters, schedule a professional inspection. It’s a small investment that can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure your gutters are ready for the next storm. - Clean Your Gutters Regularly
Clean your gutters at least twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall. If you have many trees nearby or experience heavy storms, more frequent cleaning may be necessary to prevent blockages. - Install Gutter Guards
Gutter guards help prevent debris from accumulating in your gutters, making cleaning easier and reducing the risk of clogs. While they don’t eliminate the need for cleaning altogether, they can reduce the frequency of maintenance. - Check for Damage
Inspect your gutters regularly for cracks, holes, or signs of sagging. Catching and repairing small issues early can save you from much bigger problems later on. - Trim Overhanging Trees and Shrubs
Trees and shrubs can drop leaves and debris into your gutters, which can lead to clogs. Regularly trim branches that hang over your gutters to minimize the amount of debris that falls in.
Protect Your Home by Maintaining Your Gutters
This homeowner learned firsthand how quickly a small gutter issue can turn into a major problem. By replacing the gutters, adding a gutter apron, and keeping up with maintenance, they were able to protect their home from future damage.
Taking the time to focus on gutter maintenance can save you from costly repairs later. If you need help with your gutters, don’t hesitate to get in touch for a quick inspection.