Eavestroughs are a crucial component to any home. They should be properly installed and regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure that they are doing the job they were intended to do.
But these systems are often overlooked and not always clearly understood. Homeowners often have questions about eavestroughs. And in this blog post, we’ll be taking the time to answer some of the more common questions that homeowners may have about eavestrough systems.
What is the purpose of eavestroughs?
Eavestroughs are designed to help capture falling rainwater and melted snow and direct it away from your home. If water is left to pool at the base of your foundation or at the roofline, it can cause major damage to the structure of your home. The eavestroughs – along with the downspouts – are crucial components to your home and should be well-maintained and cleaned out regularly to make sure they are able to do the job they were meant to do.
How long should eavestroughs last?
The lifespan of your eavestroughs will depend on the quality of the material used and the integrity of the installation process. Generally speaking, however, aluminum eavestroughs should last around 20 to 25 years if properly installed.
What are the signs that your eavestroughs need to be repaired or replaced?
There are a few signs that you may need to have your eavestroughs repaired or replaced, and the only way to identify these signs is by regularly inspecting the system. Here are some signs that your eavestroughs need the attention of a professional:
- Leakage at corners
- Corrosion of the aluminum
- Dislodging of the eavestroughs from the fascia boards
- Nails are coming loose
- The eavestroughs are more than 20 to 25 years old
Should you choose aluminum or plastic eavestroughs?
The answer to your question will depend on your climate. But in Canada where winters are particularly harsh, you may be better off going with aluminum as this material will be able to withstand these weather conditions better than plastic. Aluminum is also less likely to leak since there are no gaps between the eavestroughs and the fascia board.
How do eavestroughs clog up?
It’s easy for debris to make its way into the eavestroughs, such as leaves and other falling material. This is especially true if you have large trees nearby. If the eavestroughs are not cleared out, they can become clogged.
What are the dangers of clogged eavestroughs?
When your eavestroughs become clogged, the water that falls in them is blocked and unable to be transported away from your home, leaving the structure vulnerable to damage. Water can seep into your roof and make its way into your home, or it can spill over the sides of your home and damage the exterior, as well as any windows and doors. It can also cause damage to the foundation if the water is allowed to pool at the base of your home and not cleared out in a timely fashion.
How often should you clean out your eavestroughs?
Your eavestroughs should be cleared out on a regular basis for reasons discussed above. But the frequency of the cleaning job will depend on a few things, such as the proximity of large trees with falling leaves. Generally speaking, you should check on your eavestroughs at least a couple of times a year – especially in the fall and spring – when you’ll most likely find debris in the eavestroughs.
It’s best to have a cleaning job scheduled at least once per year by professionals to ensure you don’t forget about this important component of your home and to make sure the job is done effectively and safely.
Call the Experts in Eavestroughs
Whether you need a new eavestrough system installed or your existing system to be repaired, Tip Top Trough can help. We are your go-to source for all things related to eavestroughs and have a solid track record of professionally installed and repaired eavestroughs. Call Tip Top Trough today!
