When planning roof repairs or full roof replacements, many homeowners focus solely on the shingles, underlayment, or ventilation. However, one often overlooked element that plays a critical role in roof health is your gutter system. Gutters are not just an accessory—they are the frontline defense against water damage to your home.
Neglecting gutter maintenance before or after a roofing project can lead to costly consequences, even if the roof work itself is flawless. Here’s why proper gutter care is essential at every stage of your roofing journey.
Why Gutters Matter in Roofing Projects
Gutters are responsible for channeling rainwater and melting snow away from your roof, walls, and foundation. When they’re clogged or damaged, water can pool on your roof, seep into your home, or erode the landscaping around your foundation.
During roof repairs or roof replacements, contractors may need to access or even temporarily remove parts of the gutter system. If your gutters are already in poor condition or filled with debris, they can hinder progress and reduce the effectiveness of the final roof installation.
Before the Roof Job: Get Gutters Inspected and Cleaned
Before any work begins, have your gutters professionally inspected and cleaned. Here’s why:
- Prevent Additional Damage: If gutters are clogged, water can back up and damage your fascia, soffits, or even interior walls. This is especially dangerous during the rainy season.
- Ensure Safety: Loose or unstable gutters pose a hazard to roofing crews and can delay the project.
- Improve Accuracy: A clean gutter system allows roofers to spot and address hidden problems, such as leaks around joints or rot under shingles.
Additionally, this is a good time to check for sagging sections, missing downspouts, or corrosion. Fixing these before roof work begins ensures your investment is protected from day one.
After the Roof Job: Restore and Reassess Gutter Functionality
Once your roof replacement or repairs are complete, don’t assume the job is entirely done. Your gutter system needs to be checked and, in some cases, re-installed properly. Key post-project steps include:
- Reattachment and Realignment: Gutters may have been removed or shifted. Make sure they are securely fastened with the correct slope to allow water flow.
- Debris Check: Roofing projects often leave behind shingle granules, nails, and debris that can clog your gutters. A thorough cleaning post-project is crucial.
- Water Flow Test: After reinstalling gutters, run water through the system to verify that it flows freely and away from the home.
Bonus Tip: Skylight Considerations
If you’re also installing Velux skylights, gutter planning becomes even more important. Skylights increase the chance of water pooling around roof openings if gutters aren’t functioning correctly. Proper drainage near the skylight area is critical to avoid long-term water damage and ensure your skylight investment performs at its best.
Don’t Let Gutters Be the Weak Link
Whether you’re investing in roof repairs, a new roof, or adding Velux skylights, ignoring your gutters is a mistake that could cost you in repairs later. Routine maintenance, cleaning, and evaluation can extend the life of your roofing system and protect your home’s foundation.
At FRS Roofing + Gutters, we take a comprehensive approach to your roof’s health—from top to bottom. Before, during, and after any roofing project, we ensure your gutters are ready to handle the job.
📞 Need Help?
Contact FRS Roofing + Gutters at 781-322-6252 to schedule your gutter inspection or roofing consultation today. Serving homeowners with integrity, value, and exceptional care.
