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Gutter Systems in Buildings: Protecting Your Property from Water Damage by Dennis Isong

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Gutter Systems in Buildings: Protecting Your Property from Water Damage by Dennis Isong

Gutter Systems in Buildings: Protecting Your Property from Water Damage by Dennis Isong

 

 

 

Gutter systems are essential components of a building’s exterior that collect and divert rainwater away from the structure. Typically installed along the roofline, these systems consist of horizontal gutters and vertical downspouts. Gutters catch water as it runs off the roof, while downspouts channel this water away from the building’s foundation.

 

Why Gutter Systems?

 

The primary purpose of gutter systems is to protect buildings from water damage. By efficiently managing rainwater, these systems prevent a host of potential issues that could compromise the structural integrity of a building and the safety of its occupants. Gutter systems are crucial in maintaining the longevity of a structure and preserving its aesthetic appeal.

 

10 Importance of Gutter Systems in Buildings

 

  1. Foundation Protection: By directing water away from the building, gutters prevent soil erosion around the foundation, reducing the risk of cracks, shifts, and other structural damage.

 

  1. Basement Flooding Prevention: Proper water diversion minimizes the chances of water seeping into basements, protecting against flooding and moisture-related issues.

 

  1. Soil Stability: Gutters help maintain soil stability around the building by preventing oversaturation, which can lead to landscaping problems and potential sinkholes.

 

  1. Preventing Exterior Wall Damage: Without gutters, water cascading down exterior walls can lead to staining, paint damage, and even structural deterioration over time.

 

  1. Roof Protection: Gutters prevent water from pooling on the roof, which can cause leaks, rot, and damage to roofing materials.

 

  1. Mold and Mildew Prevention: By keeping the building dry, gutter systems reduce the likelihood of mold and mildew growth, which can pose health risks to occupants.

 

  1. Preserving Landscaping: Properly directed water flow protects gardens, flowerbeds, and other landscaping features from erosion and oversaturation.

 

  1. Ice Dam Prevention: In colder climates, effective gutter systems can help prevent the formation of ice dams, which can cause significant roof damage.

 

  1. Maintaining Property Value: Well-maintained gutter systems contribute to the overall appearance and functionality of a building, helping to preserve its market value.

 

  1. Energy Efficiency: By keeping the building dry, gutters indirectly contribute to better insulation performance and energy efficiency.

 

 

Problems that Come with Lack of Gutter Systems in Buildings

 

  • Foundation Damage:

 

Without gutters, rainwater falls directly from the roof and accumulates around the building’s foundation. This constant exposure to water can lead to soil erosion, which may cause the foundation to settle unevenly. Over time, this can result in cracks in the foundation walls, uneven floors, and even structural instability. In severe cases, foundation damage can compromise the entire building’s integrity, leading to costly and extensive repairs.

 

  • Basement Flooding:

 

When water is not properly diverted away from the building, it can seep into basements through small cracks or porous materials. This can lead to frequent flooding during heavy rains or snow melts. Basement flooding not only damages stored items and finishes but can also create long-term moisture problems. Persistent dampness can weaken structural elements and create an ideal environment for mold growth, potentially making the space uninhabitable and causing health issues for occupants.

 

  • Soil Erosion:

 

Without gutters to control water flow, rainwater cascading off the roof can wash away soil around the building. This erosion can be particularly problematic for landscaping, destroying gardens and exposing tree roots. More critically, it can undermine walkways, patios, and even the building’s foundation. As soil erodes, it can create low spots where water collects, exacerbating drainage issues and potentially leading to sinkholes.

 

  • Exterior Deterioration:

 

When water runs unchecked down the sides of a building, it can cause significant damage to exterior surfaces. For wooden structures, this constant moisture exposure can lead to rot, warping, and decay. Paint will peel and bubble more quickly, requiring more frequent repainting. On brick or stone buildings, water can seep into small cracks, and in colder climates, freeze-thaw cycles can cause these cracks to widen, eventually leading to spalling (where the surface of the masonry flakes off). This not only affects the building’s appearance but can also compromise its weather resistance.

 

  • Roof Damage:

 

While roofs are designed to shed water, they rely on gutters to complete the job. Without gutters, water can back up at the roof’s edge, potentially seeping under shingles or other roofing materials. This can lead to rot in the roof decking and fascia boards. In flat or low-slope roofs, standing water (known as “ponding”) can occur, adding weight stress to the roof structure and accelerating the deterioration of roofing materials. Over time, this can result in leaks and the need for premature roof replacement.

 

  • Mold and Mildew Growth:

 

Excess moisture from poor drainage creates ideal conditions for mold and mildew growth, both inside and outside the building. Exterior mold can damage siding and masonry, while interior mold (often in basements or crawl spaces) can spread through the building’s structure. Besides causing unsightly stains and unpleasant odors, mold can pose serious health risks to occupants, particularly those with respiratory issues or allergies.

 

  • Insect Infestations:

 

Standing water near a building becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other water-loving insects. This not only creates a nuisance for residents and visitors but can also pose health risks, as mosquitoes can transmit various diseases. Additionally, damp wood attracts termites and carpenter ants, which can cause significant structural damage over time.

 

  • Ice Dams:

 

In colder climates, the lack of proper water drainage can lead to the formation of ice dams. These occur when snow on the roof melts, runs to the edge, and refreezes, creating a barrier that prevents further water drainage. As more water backs up behind this ice dam, it can seep under shingles and into the building. This not only causes leaks but can also lead to significant damage to ceilings, walls, and insulation.

 

  • Staining and Discoloration:

 

Without gutters to direct water flow, rainwater carrying dirt, algae, and other debris can leave streaks and stains on the building’s exterior. This is particularly noticeable on light-colored siding or masonry. Over time, these stains can become difficult or impossible to remove without professional cleaning or repainting, affecting the building’s aesthetic appeal and potentially its value.

 

  • Reduced Property Value:

 

The cumulative effect of these issues can significantly decrease a property’s value. Visible damage, such as staining or foundation problems, immediately lowers curb appeal. More insidiously, the long-term effects of water damage can lead to major structural issues that are expensive to repair. When selling a property, these problems often come to light during inspections, potentially derailing sales or drastically reducing the selling price.

 

  • Increased Maintenance Costs:

 

Without gutters, buildings require more frequent maintenance to address water-related issues. This includes more regular painting, repairs to water-damaged areas, and potentially major renovations to address structural problems. Over time, these increased maintenance costs can far exceed the initial investment of installing and maintaining a proper gutter system.

 

  • Compromised Indoor Air Quality:

 

The increased moisture levels associated with poor water management can lead to higher humidity inside the building. This not only makes the interior less comfortable but can also contribute to the growth of mold and mildew within walls and HVAC systems. The result is poorer indoor air quality, which can exacerbate respiratory issues and create an unhealthy living or working environment.

 

 

For personalized assistance with your property needs, contact Dennis Isong, a top Lagos realtor specializing in helping Nigerians in the diaspora own property stress-free.

 

Contact: +2348164741041

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AARE ADETOLA EMMANUELKING AT 50: REDAN PRESIDENT CELEBRATES HIS VISIONARY LEADERSHIP

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AARE ADETOLA EMMANUELKING AT 50: REDAN PRESIDENT CELEBRATES HIS VISIONARY LEADERSHIP

 

It is with great pleasure that I, Prince Akintoye Adeoye, President and Chairman of Council of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), on behalf of the entire Association, extend my warmest birthday wishes to you.

As you celebrate your birthday today, we recognize your outstanding contributions to the real estate industry. Your visionary leadership in making homeownership accessible and building Adron Homes & Properties into a leading brand sets a high standard for excellence. Your passion and dedication continue to inspire many of us in the real estate sector.

Today is not just a birthday; it is a celebration of your remarkable achievements, wisdom, and the abundant grace of God. From a visionary start to shaping the future of affordable housing in Nigeria, your leadership in the real estate sector has been ground-breaking.

REDAN is proud to recognize your invaluable contributions to the real estate sector and our association. As you step into this new age, may you be blessed with continued success and even greater accomplishments in all your endeavors.

Turning 50 is a momentous occasion, offering a time for reflection on the many successes and cherished memories that have shaped your journey. At REDAN, we wish you continued good health, wisdom, and divine grace as you keep contributing to the advancement of the real estate sector and our beloved nation.

May this year and the ones ahead be filled with even greater achievements, joy, and fulfillment.

Once again, happy 50th birthday, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King.

Thank you.

Yours faithfully,

FOR: REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS’ ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA

Prince Akintoye Adeoye
President & Chairman of Council

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GGAN Lauds President Tinubu, Kyari’s Reforms on Food Security

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***Says Decrease in Prices of Food Commodities Good Sign for a Better Nigeria

 

The Good Governance Advocates of Nigeria (GGAN) has commended President Bola Tinubu and Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, for their efforts in transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

In a statement signed by its national president, Comrade Gideon Unazi, the group hailed the administration’s commitment to driving economic growth and positioning Nigeria as a key player in regional and global food markets.

According to Unazi, the country’s gradual shift from subsistence farming to a robust agribusiness ecosystem is a significant step towards empowering farmers and fostering private sector-led growth.

He noted that the declaration of a state of emergency on agriculture, temporary suspension of tariffs on imported grains and essential food items and other reforms have yielded positive results.

Unazi added: “The collaboration with international development institutions such as the African Development Bank, the World Bank, and the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has also been instrumental in driving growth in the agricultural sector.

“The lifting of the ban on importation of food across land borders, the firming up of the Naira, and the reported pausing of bulk purchase of grains that UN and US agencies distribute to IDP camps have all contributed to the recent decline in food prices.

“The election of Kyari as the Vice Chairman of the Governing Council of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is a testament to Nigeria’s leadership in global agricultural transformation.

“This recognition is a clear indication that the country is on the right path towards achieving food security and sustainable agricultural development.

“The Ministry’s efforts to distribute over 2.1 million bags of fertilizers to farmers and provide food aid to flood-affected communities have been particularly noteworthy. These initiatives have not only improved agricultural productivity but also provided relief to vulnerable populations.”

Unazi said the recent decline in food prices is a significant achievement and proof of the Federal Government’s efforts, with prices of some grains crashing by as much as 40% in the past month.

The statement stated: “The recent decline in food prices is a significant achievement, with prices of some grains crashing by as much as 40% in the past few weeks.

“The prices of beans, yam, rice, tomatoes, and garri have all declined, ranging from 10% to 70%. This trend is expected to continue, bringing relief to millions of Nigerians who have been struggling with high food prices.

“According to reports, the prices of major raw food items have declined significantly. Aljazeera reported that the prices of some grains crashed by as much as 40% in the past few weeks.

“BusinessDay highlighted a noticeable fall in the prices of beans, yam, rice, tomatoes, and garri, ranging from a decline of 23% for imported rice to 70% for tomatoes.

“The GGAN wishes to commend President Tinubu and Kyari for their leadership and vision in driving growth in the agricultural sector. We urge the administration to continue its efforts to drive economic growth and reduce poverty.

“We also call on all stakeholders to support the government’s initiatives aimed at achieving food security and sustainable agricultural development. With the current trend of declining food prices, we are optimistic that Nigeria is on the path to becoming a food-secure nation.”

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Between Primate Ayodele and Sacked NNPC Boss, Mele Kyari, Who Laughs Last?

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Between Primate Ayodele and Sacked NNPC Boss, Mele Kyari, Who Laughs Last?

By Shina Dayo

 

“Primate Ayodele may have taken sides in the ongoing misunderstanding in the nation’s hydrocarbon community. Using his platform to rally support for the oil cabal, he sends message to the President, who was not visible in his vission in 2023. Fortunately President Tinubu knows Primate Ayodele better than Kyari”, these were the words of Olabode, one of the defenders of the sacked NNPC Boss, Mele Kyari when Primate Ayodele told President Tinubu to sack him for incompetence.

Primate Ayodele had in August 2024 called on President Tinubu to replace the NNPCL Boss, Mele Kyari, due to the issues in the oil sector. The prophet had said that if President Tinubu doesn’t replace him, Nigeria’s oil sector will continue to be disorganized, and a continued crisis in the oil sector would lead to protests against the government.

These were his words:

“One of the major important things Tinubu should do if he wants to see the prayers of Nigerians. He should sack the GMD of the NNPC. If it is possible, he should be sacked before the end of this month; otherwise,another big protest is coming. This protest can sack Tinubu and can make Tinubu’s government ungovernable. If he doesn’t do this urgently, Tinubu would put himself into the hot pot. Sack the NNPC. There is a lot of rot in the NNPC. Protest not yet over. I’m seeing another protest that would seize the economy for 120 hours.”

This statement, which was contained in a video that went viral obviously didn’t sit well with the camp of the sacked NNPCL group CEO and in retaliation, they began to sponsor several publications against Primate Ayodele.

Among some of their publications were cooked up lies against the personality of the prophet, calling him different unprintable names, referring to him as one whose clients are oil bunkerers, twisting his past prophecies just to say they didn’t come to pass, and all sort of things.

Even when some followers of the prophet debunked some of their lies against the man of God, individuals in the camp of Mele Kyari went all out, paying several blogs to peddle false stories against Primate Ayodele. They even warned him to desist from mentioning Mele Kyari in his prophecies, but Primate Ayodele didn’t flinch.

Instead of listening to their rants, Primate Ayodele continued to warn President Tinubu to sack Mele Kyari, not because of personal issues but in the interest of Nigeria and what God has told him about the administration of the NNPCL boss. Due to his continued clamour for Kyari’s sack, his ‘boys’ thought the prophet had any relationship with oil cabals in the country, they tried to investigate him but found absolutely nothing. The prophet was only doing his job as God’s mouthpiece in the country.

One would have thought that as he advised President Tinubu to sack Mele Kyari, they would have at least sought spiritual guidance on how they can make things right for the good of Nigeria’s oil sector in order to avoid the embarrassment of being removed from office but rather, they started boasting of how the President will not listen to Primate Ayodele, listing the achievements of Mele Kyari including those that didn’t even benefit Nigeria, they were saying all sort of things to discredit Primate Ayodele.

However, months after, Mele Kyari has now been sacked by President Tinubu, alongside all members of the NNPCL Boss with replacements announced immediately.

I have just one question for the Mele Kyari’s camp, where has all the boastings now gotten them to? Primate Ayodele remains a major prophetic voice in Nigeria but what has Mele Kyari become? A sacked NNPCL Boss who may even face more persecutions. If there’s one thing these folks need to take away from this issue is the fact that pride goes before destruction.

“He who laughs last laughs longest”

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