When it comes to home maintenance, gutters don’t always get the attention they deserve. But neglecting them can lead to some of the biggest (and most expensive!) problems a homeowner can face. Clogged or damaged gutters can cause water to pool around your foundation, leak into your basement, or damage your siding and roof.
Thankfully, a little care goes a long way, and Mister Fix-It Complete Home Repair is here to help. Here’s the handyman’s guide to gutter care and why now is the perfect time to give yours some extra attention.
Why Gutters Matter
Gutters are your home’s drainage system. They channel rainwater and melting snow away from your roof, siding, and foundation. When they’re working properly, you don’t think about them at all. But when they’re clogged, cracked, or sagging, you’ll notice issues fast, like water spilling over the sides, stains on your siding, or even leaks inside your home!
Common Gutter Problems
- Clogs from Leaves and Debris – The most common issue, especially in fall.
- Sagging Gutters – Usually caused by loose hangers or too much weight from buildup.
- Leaks or Cracks – Small holes can turn into big problems if ignored.
- Poor Drainage – Downspouts that don’t direct water away from the foundation.
Each of these problems might start small, but if left unchecked, they can lead to thousands of dollars in water damage repairs.
Gutter Care Basics Every Homeowner Should Know
- Clean Regularly: Twice a year is ideal—once in spring and again in fall. Or call on us at Mister Fix-It and we will be happy to cross this item off your to-do list for you.
- Check for Damage: Look for rust, cracks, or separation from the roofline.
- Secure Loose Fasteners: Sagging gutters can’t do their job properly.
- Inspect Downspouts: Water should be directed at least three feet away from your foundation.
When to Call a Handyman
Some homeowners feel comfortable tackling basic gutter cleaning, but there are times when calling in a pro is the smarter (and much safer) choice:
- Your gutters are too high to reach safely.
- You see visible damage, sagging, or leaking.
- You don’t have the right tools for the job.
- You’d rather spend your weekend doing just about anything else. (No judgement!)
A handyman like Mister Fix-It can clean, repair, or replace your gutters quickly and efficiently, saving you both time and hassle.
Protect Your Home This Season
With fall leaves coming down and winter storms on the horizon, now is the time to make sure your gutters are in top shape. Waiting until problems show up can mean costly damage to your roof, foundation, or basement.
Call today or visit www.misterfixitstl.com to request your free estimate and keep your home protected all year long. (And check out our reviews from hundreds of happy homeowners and renters in Saint Louis, Saint Charles, and Saint Peters who keep coming back!)
NEXT UP: What Can a Handyman Really Do? More Than You Think.