I know, for those of you that have had us clean or install gutters before, it’s an easy question. At one point, you’ve all run the risk of any of these problems. For the new home owner or property owner, this list is as much of a warning reminder as confirming the dangers you’re already aware of:
- Foundation Problems. When gutters and down spouts clog with debris, the water diverts to the roof or the house foundation.
- Roof and Attic Moisture. Water backing up on the roof can cause moisture in the attic or crawl space. It can also cause interior leaks that you may think is roofing related. A check of the gutters is always a first step in roof leak calls.
- Damage to the Sides of The House. Water backing up over the gutters can run down the side of the house, damaging fascia, siding and windows.
- Pooling As A Breeding Ground. Water pooling around the foundation can cause foundation damage and moisture in the wood. This can lead to wood rot, but more likely (drumroll)….
- Carpenter Ants. Carpenter ants nest in moist wood including rotting trees, tree roots, tree stumps, and logs or boards lying on or buried in the ground. They can also nest in moist or decayed wood inside buildings. Wood decay is caused by exposure to leaks, condensation, or poor air circulation. Nests have been found behind bathroom tiles; around tubs, sinks, showers, and dishwashers; under roofing, in attic beams, and under subfloor insulation; and in hollow spaces such as doors, curtain rods, and wall voids. Carpenter ants may also nest in foam insulation.
They damage wood by excavating and creating galleries and tunnels. These areas are clean, i.e. they do not contain sawdust or other debris, and are smooth, with a well sanded appearance. The damage to wood structures is variable. The longer a colony is present in a structure, the greater the damage that will be done. If structural wood weakens, carpenter ant damage is severe.
An important method for preventing carpenter ant problems indoors is to eliminate high moisture conditions that are attractive to them. Also, replace any moisture-damaged wood.
Rainshield not only cleans gutters, we install a no-clog gutter system as well. This includes:
- Seamless Gutters / K-5 Style
- 2” X 3” Gutter Outlet
- 2” X 3” Aluminum Downspouts
- Hidden Clip System (not the traditional gutter spike, this allows for a stronger gutter application and reduces the possibility that the gutter will pull away from the roofline)
- Commercial Grade Sealants
- Perforated Aluminum Gutter Guard
- Drain-guard (leaf catchers)
- Ground Drain Cap/ Downspout Adapter
We give a lifetime warranty on the system, so you will not have to clean your gutters ever again.
