Post-Hurricane Gutter Inspection Checklist

Hurricane season can leave behind a trail of destruction, and your home's gutters are often one of the first casualties. Properly inspecting your gutters after a storm is crucial to ensure they continue to protect your home from water damage. Here's a comprehensive checklist from The Royal Gutter Company to help homeowners in Florida inspect their gutters effectively after a hurricane.

Visual Inspection

1. Check for Visible Damage:

• Gutters: Look for sections that are dented, sagging, or have pulled away from the house.
• Downspouts: Ensure they are intact and firmly attached to the house, with no sections disconnected or missing.

2. Signs of Overflow:

• Look for water marks or damage on the siding and fascia that indicate water overflow, pointing to blockages or misalignment.

Physical Inspection

3. Check for Blockages:

• Safely use a ladder to examine the gutters closely. Remove any debris like leaves, twigs, or sediment that could impede water flow.
• After clearing, flush the gutters with a hose to check for remaining blockages and ensure water is freely flowing to the downspouts.

4. Gutter Alignment:

• Ensure that all sections of your gutters are aligned properly and slope towards downspouts for optimal drainage.
• Adjust any sections that may have shifted or settled incorrectly due to strong winds or heavy rain.

Functional Inspection

5. Inspect Seals and Joints:

• Check all joints and seams for leaks. Pay close attention to corners and end caps where separation is most likely to occur.
• Consider applying a silicone-based sealant to any leaks to maintain waterproof integrity.

6. Downspout Flow Test:

• Conduct a flow test by running water through the gutters to the downspouts. Observe if the water exits smoothly or backs up, indicating potential issues.
• Check where the water discharges and ensure it’s directed away from your home’s foundation.

Additional Checks

7. Check for Rust and Corrosion:

• Inspect metal gutters for signs of rust or corrosion that can weaken the gutter system.
• Consider replacing rusted sections or treating them with rust-resistant paint.

8. Assess Surrounding Areas:

• Look for loose roofing materials or branches that could fall and damage the gutters. Trimming tree branches that overhang your roof can prevent future debris accumulation.

9. Professional Inspection:

• If your gutters are high, hard to reach, or if you observe significant damage, it might be wise to call in professionals. A thorough professional inspection can pinpoint less obvious issues and ensure your gutters are in top shape.

Post-Inspection

10. Schedule Regular Maintenance:

• Hurricanes often highlight neglected maintenance. Schedule regular gutter cleanings and inspections to ensure your gutter system remains effective year-round.

By following this post-hurricane gutter inspection checklist, Florida homeowners can help ensure that their gutter systems are not compromised and continue to function effectively. Early detection and repair of any issues will save money and prevent significant damage in the long run.

‍