HELP…My Basement is Leaking!

“My basement is leaking and I need someone to come out right away and fix my gutters.”  We occasionally get phone calls that start with these words. The following is a list of questions we will ask you to determine if your gutters are the problem or if it may be something else:

  • Are your gutters clean or do you have a waterfall coming from your gutters when it rains?
  • Are you sure the downspouts are not clogged and water is flowing from them during heavy rainfall?
  • Do all the downspouts have at least 3’ extensions?
  • Are the gutters leaking?
  • Are the gutters free of standing water/correctly pitched?

If you can answer yes to all these questions, you don’t have a gutter problem.  You will need to contact a company that specializes in basement leaks. However, once your basement is dry again, the staff at Alloy Gutter Company wants to help you keep your gutter system operating properly. Make sure to call Alloy for any gutter cleaning or repair work you may need in the future.

Why Is It Important To Keep Your Gutters Clean?

Clean gutters are your number one defense against many problems that could arise with clogged gutters.  Your gutters have one job and that is to control the water around your home.  If leaves and twigs prevent your gutters from doing their job you could wind up paying for some serious repairs. GutterCleaning Some issues that can arise from clogged gutters: Cracked Foundations – This is the number one reason to keep those gutters clean!  If excess water is constantly coming in contact with your foundation wall this can weaken the foundation and lead to cracks.  This can lead to severe cracks in the winter from the constant freezing and thawing. Rotten Fascia Board – When your gutters are clogged with debris water will start backing up against your fascia board around the house causing it to rot.  The rotting will only continue to get worse if the gutters are not cleaned properly. Icy Driveway and Sidewalks – If this water is not being directed to the proper areas because of the clog, you will end up water depositing on nearby sidewalks and your driveway.  During the winter months this can cause some slippery conditions and a major liability issue for not only yourself but your visitors as well. While these are only a few problems that can arise there are many others you should be aware of such as leaky basements, washed out landscapes and an increase of insects.  If you are comfortable cleaning your gutters yourself we stress the importance of safety first.  Watch out for electrical lines, bees’ nests and proper ladder placement.  If not, give the professionals at Alloy Gutter a call to take care of your clogged gutters right away.