If you live in a rainy climate, you likely can hear the pitter patter of rain up on your roof many days throughout the year. A bit of rain on your roof is fine, but what you don't want to hear is that same water dripping down directly onto your house's foundation. It's for this reason that just about every modern home has a gutter or downspout system installed. If it's been a while since you've taken a closer look at yours, here are just some of the reasons why you should do so as soon as possible.

Gutter and Downspouts Prevent Water Damage to Your Basement

If you allow water to drip directly off of your roof onto a specific spot on the ground, it won't take long before the dirt begins to erode. Leave this area unchecked and you may eventually have a basement leak to contend with. A leak down by your home's foundation can be a nightmare as it could cause the development of mold within your walls, and that can be very costly to fix.

A Clogged Gutter Could Also Harm Your Roof

If you have a clogged gutter that is allowing water to pool before it begins to drip down, you could also end up with a serious problem on your roof. This is because some of the water could end up running underneath your roof tiles and cause a leak that gets down into your home. This is an especially fraught situation if the clog happens during the winter, because pooled water in your gutter could become frozen water, causing the ice to expand and either damage your roofing tile or the gutter system itself.

What Is My Responsibility as a Homeowner?

For best results, get into the habit of checking your gutter system with a ladder at least once a month or after a major storm where you know some branches or debris may have been flying around. Make sure any debris you discover is swept clear of your gutters and downspouts. This will allow water to drain properly, far away from your foundation and plant beds.

How Can a Roofing Contractor Help?

A roofing contractor can be a big help when it comes to keeping an eye on your gutter system. He or she can inspect the entire roof and then pay special attention to the area in and around the gutters. A contractor can sweep away the debris for you if you don't like the idea of climbing up on a ladder. A regular inspection will also help you spot any potential issues with your roof before they develop into more serious problems. Contact roofing companies like Cloise & Mike Construction Inc today for more information.