Inspect and Clean Your Gutters Regularly

With storm season on the horizon, one of the best defences for your home is clean, clear gutters. A cluttered gutter can cause water to spill over and damage your property. It’s like trying to drink from a clogged straw – messy and inefficient! Grab a ladder (make sure it’s sturdy), and inspect your gutters for leaves, twigs, and other debris. Don’t shy away from getting a bit grubby; a bit of elbow grease now can save you a lot of trouble later.

Check for Damage

Once you’ve cleared out the debris, it’s time to give your gutters a thorough inspection. Look out for any signs of wear and tear, including cracks, rust spots, and sagging sections. If Bob from next door could notice the bend in that section, it’s probably time for a fix-up. Missing fasteners or screws should be replaced, as these small bits hold your entire gutter system together.

Ensure Proper Downspout Functionality

Rain showers might be a relaxing soundtrack, but only if your downspouts are doing their job properly. Water should flow freely through your gutters and out the downspouts, away from the foundation of your house. Check if any downspouts are blocked by running water through them. A simple garden hose will do the trick. Ensure the water is being diverted at least 1.8 meters away from your foundation. You don’t want your house to look like it’s on an island, right?

Install Gutter Guards

If you’re tired of climbing up and down that ladder, maybe it’s time to invest in some gutter guards. These handy little gadgets fit over your gutters and keep out most debris. Think of them as a bouncer at an exclusive club – leaves and twigs need not apply!

Trim Overhanging Branches

Do you have a tree that insists on shedding leaves directly into your gutters? It’s time to show it who’s boss. Trim any overhanging branches that are within falling distance of your roof. This not only keeps your gutters clear but also prevents larger branches from causing damage during strong winds.

Perform Bi-Annual Maintenance

Storm season or not, regular maintenance is key. Consider making gutter checks a bi-annual affair – once before storm season hits and once after. This ensures that your gutters remain in peak condition all year round. Prevention is better than cure, and in this case, it’s a whole lot cheaper too!

Consider Professional Services

If heights make you dizzy or your DIY skills leave much to be desired, it might be wise to call in the professionals. A qualified technician can handle the gritty work, giving you peace of mind and freeing up your weekend for something a bit more enjoyable, like a barbie with mates.

Upgrade to a Larger Gutter System

If your region experiences particularly heavy rainfall, your current gutter system might not suffice. Consider upgrading to a larger gutter system designed to handle higher volumes of water. This upgrade can be an investment in your home’s long-term health, preventing expensive water damage repairs down the line.

Double-check Gutter Slope

A properly sloped gutter allows water to flow towards the downspouts efficiently. Take a moment to ensure your gutters have a slight tilt – about 6 mm for every 3 meters of gutter length. A level and a keen eye can do wonders here. Adjusting the slope if needed can make all the difference during those torrential downpours.

Secure Loose Gutters

Loose gutters can lead to more than just an annoying drip. They can cause water to seep into your house and even pull away from the roof during a fierce storm. Make sure your gutters are securely fastened and all brackets are in place and sturdy. A few extra minutes with a wrench now can save you bundles in repair costs later.

Mental Preparation

Yes, you read that right. Storm season brings unforeseen challenges. Preparation goes a long way, but remember to keep your cool even if things don’t go as planned. After all, isn’t that the Aussie way? If storm season throws a curveball your way, a little resilience, and preparedness can make all the difference.

In the end, taking the time to prep your gutters might not be the most glamorous task, but it’s definitely a rewarding one. So put on your hat, grab your tools, and get cracking! Your future dry, cosy home will thank you!