Gutter systems, while not as large as the siding or roofing, are important parts of your home. In fact, even if it doesn’t share the same size, it’s just as important in ensuring the proper operation of your home. However, just like all exterior parts of your home, it can be severely damaged by the elements, especially wind. In this post, one of the leading gutter and roofing companies in your area, Steinmeyer Roofing, Inc., shares how wind can damage your gutters, and how you can protect it.
Metal Fatigue
When strong winds hit a surface, such as an outside wall, it can apply heavy pressure to the structure. Consequently, the wind can also blow upwards, blowing strong gusts of wind to the gutters or the roofing. Under torrential rain, the roof edge is the weakest point of your roof, since it’s being hit by wind and water in different directions. It can also affect your gutters by shaking it constantly, leading to metal fatigue on the gutter troughs, fasteners and hangers. As it persists, your fasteners will come loose, and your gutters will start to crack.
Even if your gutter and roofing repair expert can take care of it, it’s still better to prevent the issue rather than treat it, even during the roof estimate stage. This can be prevented by installing high-quality fasteners and high-gauge gutters from the start. Another good option for areas with strong winds are seamless gutters since they aren’t as vulnerable to metal fatigue due to the lack of seams.
Tree Limbs
If you have trees overhanging your roof or gutters, make sure that you cut it or trim it back regularly. Remember that tree limbs can scrape your roof’s shingles, remove the paint, and damage the caulking on your gutters. This effectively exposes your roof to the elements. Large branches can force gutter troughs out of place, or even bend them if excessive force is applied. A good rule of thumb to remember is to keep a ten-foot gap distance between the nearest branch and roof.
Trust in Steinmeyer Roofing, Inc., the top storm damage to roof experts, for all your residential roofing needs. We’re a local roofing company that gives our customers superior customer service and workmanship. Give us a call at (217) 202-4158 or you can also fill out our contact form to get a free roof estimate.