Gutters 101: Clogged Gutters
When was the last time you cleaned out your gutters? If you can’t remember, then it might be time to give us a call. Many homeowners often neglect regular maintenance of their gutter system as it is not an aspect of their home that they actively make use of. However, making sure your gutters are clean and functioning properly can cause a world of difference in your homes’ lifetime.
The most common sign of blocked gutters is water spilling over the front edge during rainstorms. This can cause erosion around the foundation or stains on the siding of your home, which are also evident indicators of clogged gutters. Another thing to watch out for is sagging gutters. If you notice that your gutters are lower than normal, it might be time to get scheduled for a cleaning.
The most common sign of blocked gutters is water spilling over the front edge during rainstorms. This can cause erosion around the foundation or stains on the siding of your home, which are also evident indicators of clogged gutters. Another thing to watch out for is sagging gutters. If you notice that your gutters are lower than normal, it might be time to get scheduled for a cleaning.
Clogged Gutter Risks
Foundation Problems
All homeowners are aware that water damage can lead to serious problems to a home’s foundation, but most are unaware that clogged gutters are one of the leading causes of foundation problems. If water is unable to flow properly through your gutters and downspouts, it can lead to huge overflow problems where the water will spill over the sides of the gutter and onto the walls of the home. Frequent overflow and pooling can lead to very subtle erosion around the base of the home. Over time, cracks will begin to appear and propagate through the structure, weakening the walls of your home and resulting in serious problems and expensive repairs.
Basement Flooding
Not only does overflow and pooling weaken your home’s foundation, but it can also seep into
your basement. Basement flooding is also often caused by clogged gutters and downspouts. This poses a serious problem for homeowners as a damp basement facilitates the growth of mold and mildew. In addition, basement flooding can cause serious damage to valuables and furniture in your basement. An important side note to mention is that most insurance policies do not cover this type of water damage. This is why it is crucial to stay up to date with your gutter maintenance!
Broken Gutters
As emphasized already, clogged gutters and downspouts lead to the pooling and backing up of debris within the gutter system. The rainfall is left with nowhere to go as it is stopped by the stuck debris and leaves. Instead, water fills the gutters to the brim, adding hundreds of pounds of water weight. Over time, this extra weight will begin to bend your gutters out of shape before ultimately tearing them away from the fascia board leading to pricey repairs and a serious risk of injury.
Roof Damage
The main purpose of a gutter system is to collect rainwater from the roof into a managed drain away system for the home. However, a clogged gutter is unable to collect all the water from your roof. The excess water and moisture will then find its way under your shingles and through your roof. A leaky roof poses a risk of health issues stemming from mold and mildew for the people living in the home. Gutter cleaning is the simplest of methods to provide preventive maintenance to these systems.
Pest Infestation
Trapped leaves and pooling water create the perfect environment for pests and bugs to make themselves at home. Mosquitoes, which can carry viruses and are just an all-around annoyance, love the sitting water that builds up in clogged gutters. The mud and clumped leaves also serve as grounds for bees and wasps to build their nests. Clogged gutters invite these unwanted creatures and many more to your home.
How often should I get my gutters cleaned?
You should get your gutters cleaned at least once a year although twice is optimal. These cleanings typically occur in the Spring and late Fall. A late Fall cleaning is important to protect your gutters from the upcoming Winter.
If you live in an area with many trees, you might need to do a cleaning more often. It is also important to note that if you live in the North, icy Winters might produce ice dams in your gutters. If you live in the South, the hot Summers could result in expansion and contraction of your gutter system.
Conclusion
As we have seen, clogged gutters lead to a plethora of problems. If your gutters are not properly maintained, they can also lead to your property value decreasing. This marks the end of A to Z Gutter’s guide to Basic Gutter Maintenance. Make sure to give the full blog a read to learn more about maintaining the quality of your gutter system!
Look out for these cardinal signs of clogged gutters. Take the proper steps to ensure your gutter system is in good condition. As always, you don’t have to do it alone! Give us a call, A to Z Gutters is at your service for any of your gutter needs! We’ve got you covered, from A to Z!
