Let’s face it, nobody really enjoys climbing up their ladders to clean their gutters but we do it anyway. After all, we understand that our gutter system, along with our roof, plays a huge role in diverting excess rainwater away from our home. There is another important but little-known reason why we should always have clear gutters: legionnaires’ disease.
In today’s post, gutter and roof repair contractor M & A Roof Home Improvement explains what legionnaires’ disease is and why it should be avoided at all costs.
Legionnaires’ disease is a form of atypical pneumonia which is caused by any species of Legionella bacteria, but most often by Legionella pneumophila. The stagnant water typically found in clogged gutters is a favorite breeding ground for Legionella pneumophila since it encourages the growth of algae, Pseudomonas and flavobacteria, all of which are essential for legionella to thrive.
Legionnaires’ disease is serious, which is why you should clean your gutters regularly or consider hiring your roofing contractor and have them cleaned.
Its symptoms include cough, shortness of breath, high fever, muscle pains, vomiting, and diarrhea. It was only recently discovered in 1976 when the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched an investigation on what was making attendees of the American Legion Convention in Philadelphia so sick. Hundreds of people were hospitalized while dozens died.
As a general rule, your gutters should be cleaned at least twice each year. Another great way to prevent this problem is by installing a gutter shield to keep leaves and other debris away from your gutters.
Looking for a residential roofing contractor to clean your gutters for you? Then look no further than M & A Roof Home Improvement. If you are a homeowner in Virginia Beach, VA, or its surrounding communities, be sure to give us a call at (757) 779-5244. Alternatively, you can fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment today.