Gutter Company Gutter Maintenance and Cleaning 3

Question 1

What causes gutters to pull away from the fascia board over time?

Accepted Answer

Weight of debris and water combined with fastener failure or rotting fascia board

Answer

The combined weight of debris, standing water, and ice can overload fasteners, and if the underlying fascia is rotted, the fasteners lose their grip.

Question 2

What is the correct way to patch a small hole or crack in an aluminum gutter?

Accepted Answer

Clean the area, apply gutter sealant on the inside, and cover with a metal patch if the hole is large

Answer

Small holes are repaired by cleaning the area thoroughly, applying gutter sealant, and using a metal patch for holes larger than 1/4 inch to ensure a lasting waterproof seal.

Question 3

What is a common cause of standing water at the low end of a gutter run that was previously draining correctly?

Accepted Answer

A hanger has failed causing the gutter to sag and lose its pitch

Answer

When a hanger fails, the gutter dips at that point, creating a low spot that interrupts the slope and causes water to pool rather than flow to the downspout.

Question 4

How should pine needles lodged in a gutter be removed most effectively?

Accepted Answer

Blower to dry them then sweep with a gutter scoop

Answer

Pine needles pack tightly when wet; blowing or letting them dry and then scooping is far more efficient than trying to flush wet, compacted needles.

Question 5

What maintenance task prevents ice dams from forming at gutters in cold climates?

Accepted Answer

Ensuring adequate attic insulation and ventilation so roof surface temperature stays uniform

Answer

Ice dams form when heat escapes through a poorly insulated attic and melts snow on the roof; improving attic insulation and ventilation keeps the roof cold and prevents melt-refreeze cycles.

Gutter Company Practice Test

Gutter Company Practice Test

Gutter Company Gutter Maintenance and Cleaning 3