Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts are an important part of your home. Installed correctly, and in the right locations, gutters and downspouts can protect your home from water damage. Gutters and downspouts should direct water, and melted ice and snow, away from your roof line, and away from your foundation.
If you have areas of water damage on your ceilings, or in your basement, check to see if you have gutters installed in those areas of your home. If not, call a gutter contractor to advise you, and to install gutters and downspouts. This is not a particularly expensive project, and can save you money in the long run.
Once you have your gutters and downspouts, don't forget about them. You should have your gutters cleaned at least twice a year (fall and spring), especially if you live in an area with many trees. Leaves and pine needles can accumulate in your gutters, clogging them, and preventing them from working correctly. You can do this job yourself with a ladder and powerful hose, or call a gutter cleaning company who will charge you only about $75 to do the job.