Don't Let Leaves Clog Your Gutters (And Flood Your Basement)

 

 Have you checked your gutters recently? It might save you more money than you think. 

 

 Your gutters are important for protecting your basement—maybe it sounds strange, but it's true! The gutter system channels water away from your foundation, therefore protecting it from floods and leaks. 

 

 If there's obstructions in the gutters, such as dead leaves in the fall, it can trigger many other problems, such as basement flooding (and, in some cases, increases the probability of foundation failure). We can waterproof your basement and repair your foundation, but that doesn't mean we want these things to happen to you! In fact, we have specific products to help move water away from your foundation. 

 

 What Causes Gutters To Clog?

 Are your gutters prone to clogging? That could be possible due to several factors.

 

 First, do you have a near-flat roof? While there aren't many of these in Alaska, it's important to consider if your roof is accumulating debris due to the lack of a deeper slope. 

 

 Second, are your gutters sloped enough to provide efficient drainage? If your gutter isn't in the right angle, water will struggle to flow at a desirable speed. 

 

Third, are your gutters getting a sludge and slime buildup? When organic matter breaks down, such as leaves and animal droppings, it can decompose and turn into gooey slime or sludge. This buildup makes it even more difficult to flow water properly through your drainage, and can be difficult to remove. 

 

Preventing Damage To Your Home From Gutter Cloggage 

First of all, it's important to unclog your gutter at least twice a year. The most ideal times to do it are often in fall and late spring, when debris and organic matter buildup are going to be at their most severe. Doing it before winter is even more important because snow will accumulate on your roofs and gutters, making the debris heavier for several months at a time. 

 

You may also want to inspect and unclog your downspouts. If water flows freely into your gutter cavity, but doesn't drain through, your downspout may be the problem. 

 

Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, you may need a downspout extension so your water isn't draining directly next to your basement or crawl space. At Foundation & Crawl Space Repair of Anchorage, we have several options that might appeal to you. 

 

LawnScape Outlet

This connects to your downspout to a special LawnScape Outlet sending water away from the foundation while camouflaging the end of the pipe. It's best for downspout extensions over 7 feet long, and a popular choice for sump pump discharge lines. Its removable lid provides easy access for cleaning, especially in those seasons (like fall!) when organic matter can threaten cloggage. 

 

RainChute

This downspout extension is recessed into the ground and carries downspout water away from the foundation. It's best for homes where the lawn starts at the foundation. Its clog-free design flushes leaves and debris away, yet it's also lawnmower friendly. You won't break your lawnmower while cutting grass around it! 

RainChute EZ

Alternatively, this downsprout extension is above ground and directs water 3-8 feet away from the home's foundaiton. It's best for landscaped area near the foundation, and its clog-free design will flush and debris away! This makes your life a lot easier in any season. 

 

Want To Protect Your Foundation From Downspout Water? We'll Give You A FREE Estimate

When it rains, it pours. So don't wait! Our System Design Specialists can recommend the right downspout extension for your home. Call us for a FREE estimate HERE!