Your gutters are responsible for diverting water away from the foundation of your home. If clogged, numerous problems can arise, such as basement flooding and soil erosion. However, failing to clean your gutters on a regular basis can also have long-term consequences on your health and wellbeing. A gutter protection products specialist discusses more in this article.
What Is the Legionnaires’ Disease?
Caused by Legionella pneumophila, a type of bacteria, Legionnaires’ disease comes with a variety of symptoms, including cough, shortness of breath, muscle pains, high fever, and severe chest pain. Nausea and vomiting may also occur, and high fevers that accompany it can be as high as 105F degrees.
Does It Grow in Your Gutters?
Pooling or stagnant water present in clogged gutters is the ideal environment for Legionella to grow and multiply in, especially in temperatures between 68F and 122F degrees. The sediment that insects and leaves help create is another factor that may encourage the spread of this bacteria. This is because it promotes the growth of algae, flavobacteria and pseudomonas, all of which are essential for Legionella to grow and thrive in the first place.
How Do You Prevent Legionnaires’ Disease?
The most effective method to prevent this disease from occurring is to thoroughly clean your gutters at least twice a year. However, depending on the kind of foliage surrounding your roof, it may be necessary to clean your gutters once every three months. The longer you spend without removing leaves, twigs, bird droppings and other debris from your gutters, the more likely Legionella will grow and affect your health. Apart from regular cleaning, installing gutter guards can also help minimize the buildup of debris and therefore decreases the chances of water accumulating in your gutters.
Gutter Helmet of Northern Minnesota is a premier source of top-rated gutter protection products and services in Duluth, Minnesota. Our certified professionals are committed to providing the comfort and efficiency you need. Call us today at (800) 824-3772 or fill out our contact form to request a free, no-obligation estimate.
