As a homeowner, you always want your property to look good and stay damage-free. One of the biggest threats to your home’s safety is water damage caused by poor drainage systems and eavestroughs.
Unfortunately, it can be an expensive problem to solve. So, what can you do to prevent water damage and save yourself from costly repairs? The answer is simple – proper eavestrough installation, and the right people for the job are the Roofing company in Calgary and Red Deer – Epic Roofing.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of eavestrough installation and how it can prevent water damage. We will also give some tips on choosing the right eavestroughs and getting them installed correctly.
What are eavestroughs and why are they important?
Eavestroughs, also known as gutters, are an integral part of your home’s drainage system. They are installed along the roofline, collecting rainwater and directing it away from the foundation of your home. Without eavestroughs, your house is highly susceptible to water damage, erosion, and foundation cracking.
Water that accumulates around your foundation can seep into the basement, causing mold growth, mildew, and even structural damage. This is why eavestroughs are so important for protecting your home.
Choosing the right eavestroughs
When it comes to choosing the right eavestroughs, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you need to determine the correct size for your home, depending on the amount of rainfall in your area.
The standard size for a residential eavestrough is 5 inches, but if your region has high rainfall, you may want to opt for larger eavestroughs to accommodate the excess water.
Next, you need to choose the material for your eavestrough. The most popular materials are aluminum and vinyl due to their affordability and durability. Aluminum is considered the better choice as it is rust-proof and lightweight, making it resistant to damage and easy to install.
Proper eavestrough installation
Proper installation of your eavestroughs is critical to ensure they function correctly. If eavestroughs are not installed correctly, they can cause more harm than good. Here are some tips for proper installation:
-Install eavestroughs with a slight slope towards the downpipe to ensure proper water flow.
-Leave a gap between the back of the eavestrough and the fascia board to prevent water from overflowing into the fascia.
-Use high-quality hangers to properly secure the eavestroughs to the roof, ensuring they are not pulled away by the weight of snow and ice.
Maintenance of your eavestroughs
Proper installation of your eavestroughs is just the beginning. Proper maintenance is equally important to ensure they function correctly. Inspect your eavestroughs regularly, especially after heavy rainfall, to check for any blockages or damage. Clear out debris and leaves that might be stuck in your eavestroughs to ensure proper water flow. If you notice any cracks or damage, get them repaired as soon as possible.
To sum up, eavestroughs play a crucial role in preventing water damage to your home. Proper installation, maintenance, and choosing the right size and material are key to ensuring their effectiveness. If you have outdated or improperly installed eavestroughs, it is high time to consider investing in new ones.
It might seem like an unnecessary expense, but in the long term, it will save you a considerable amount of money on expensive repairs and protect your home from water damage. Remember, your home deserves the best protection, and the right eavestroughs are a critical part of it.
Possible Causes of Water Damage in your Home
Water damage is a nightmare for every homeowner. It’s not just the damage to your property but also the stress and costs that come with it. From a leaky faucet to a burst pipe, water damage can have many causes.
Identifying and addressing the cause is the first step in preventing water damage in your home. Let’s explore the possible reasons behind water damage in your home and how you can prevent it.
1. Plumbing Issues
The most common cause of water damage in homes is plumbing issues. Leakage from pipes, corrosion, and drainage problems can lead to water damage. A small leak may seem insignificant, but over time, it can cause significant damage to your home. Regular inspection of pipes and drains can help you identify potential issues before they turn into expensive repairs.
2. Basement Flooding
Basement flooding is a common problem that homeowners face. It can be caused by heavy rain, melting snow, or a malfunctioning sump pump. Basement flooding can lead to water damage in your home, including your walls, carpets, and furniture. To prevent basement flooding, ensure that your sump pump is working correctly, and there are no cracks or leaks in your foundation walls.
3. Poor Drainage
Water damage can also occur due to poor drainage around your home. If water is not draining away from your home, it can seep into your foundation and cause damage. Gutters, downspouts, and grading play a crucial role in preventing water damage due to poor drainage. Ensure that your gutters are clean, and downspouts are directed away from the foundation of your home.
4. Roof Damage
A damaged roof can lead to water damage in your home. It can be caused by weather, lack of maintenance, or natural wear and tear over time. Water can seep through cracks in your roof, leading to water damage to your ceilings and walls. Regular inspection and maintenance of your roof can help prevent water damage and ensure its longevity.
5. Appliance Malfunctions
Water damage can also be caused by malfunctioning appliances around your home. An overflowing washing machine, burst water heater, or a leaking dishwasher can cause significant water damage. Regular inspection of your appliances and their connections can help identify potential problems before they turn into expensive repairs.
