Eavestroughs are an integral part of your home’s exterior. Without them, water would seep into your foundation and soil, potentially leading to costly damage.
Eavestroughs can also shield your home from the damaging effects of rot and mould growth in the attic, but if you suspect that they are failing, contact an expert right away.
Sagging Gutters
Gutters are essential to the health of your home and an efficient drainage system. Without them, your roof, siding and foundation could be compromised due to water damage or mold growth.
Sagging gutters are an indication that something is amiss. They could indicate a broken drainage system that needs repair or replacement before creating more serious issues.
Sagging gutters often indicate improper installation. This includes not using the correct size gutters, downspouts and elbows, placing support hangers too far apart or not aligning/pitching them correctly.
When this occurs, water, ice or snow accumulates inside your trough and puts undue strain on the gutter hardware, leading to weakening and eventual failure.
Sagging gutters can often be corrected by replacing the fasteners used to hold them in place. For instance, long spikes or nails that go through your front gutter may be replaced with threaded spikes or U-shaped brackets that hook into the fascia board and secure your gutter in place.
Stains on Your Siding
Stains on your siding can be caused by moisture, rain splash-up or chemical buildup and pose a major problem. Not only will these affect the aesthetic of your house, but they may also lower energy efficiency and necessitate more frequent cleanings in the future.
Green stains are typically caused by algae or moss and can usually be eliminated with some gentle scrubbing. Black stains, on the other hand, tend to be caused by mold or mildew growth and require professional assistance for removal.
Stains may also be caused by rotting wood sheathing or insulation. Yellow stains indicate water damage beneath the siding.
If you notice many of these stains on the exterior of your house, it may be wise to hire a professional for their removal.
There are several methods for removing stains from your siding, such as pressure washing which uses high pressure spray to blast away grime and scuff marks. Alternatively, you can use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the siding then rinse with a garden hose. You could also try using products with bleach as their active ingredient.
Water Leaks
Water leaks can be a major source of water damage to a home. They may begin as small holes or cracks in the foundation and grow over time to cause extensive structural harm and costly repairs.
If you discover your gutter system is leaking when it rains, it is critical to address the problem promptly. Doing so will prevent further damage to your home from occurring from water-damaged gutters.
To fix a leaky gutter, contact Denali Exteriors in Winnipeg and get an estimate for an eavestrough replacement. We can assist you in deciding the size of the gutters and number of downspouts necessary for effective drainage.
Water that seeps behind your eavestroughs can cause extensive damage to the fascia and soffit boards, as well as promote rot and mold growth. To avoid these issues, ensure that your eavestroughs are securely fastened onto the fascia board.
Mold and Mildew
If your home is suffering from water damage, mold and mildew can quickly take hold and lead to health issues. The solution is simple: identify the problems and take immediate steps towards eliminating them.
Start by taking a walk through all rooms of your home, including basements and crawl spaces. Look for signs of moisture such as stains, discoloration or odors in these places.
It is wise to inspect closets, dresser drawers and other storage areas that have been exposed to dampness or water. Dirty articles can provide food for mildew if the conditions are ideal – moisture and temperature must be the right combination for growth.
Soiled fabrics such as cotton, rayon, wool and leather should be air-dried thoroughly before putting them away in garment bags. Without being treated with a mildew-resistant finish, these materials may develop mildew if left soiled for an extended period of time.
