When was the last time you cleaned your gutters? If you're like many homeowners, gutter maintenance might not be at the top of your to-do list, but neglecting this simple task can lead to major (and expensive) problems with your roof, siding, and foundation. Read on to learn about the hidden dangers of clogged gutters, along with practical DIY tips to keep your gutters flowing freely all year long.
Why Gutters Matter
Gutters play a vital role in protecting your home by channeling rainwater off the roof and away from the walls and foundation. When they’re working properly, gutters prevent water damage, erosion, and mold growth. But when they’re clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris, all that water has nowhere to go—and that’s when the trouble starts.
The Hidden Dangers of Clogged Gutters—and How to Spot Them
Roof Damage: One of the most serious issues a clogged gutter can cause is damage to the roof. When water backs up in the gutter, it can seep under shingles and cause wood rot, mold, and leaks. Over time, the weight of waterlogged debris can also put stress on your roof’s edge and fascia boards (the horizontal boards that run along the edge of your roof, just beneath the shingles, where the gutters are attached), leading to expensive repairs.
What to watch for:
• Water stains on ceilings or attic walls
• Sagging or peeling roof edges
• Dripping or overflowing gutters when it rains
Basement Flooding and Foundation Issues: Think your gutters don’t have anything to do with your basement? Think again. When gutters overflow, water can pool around the base of your home and lead to basement flooding, foundation cracks, and long-term structural damage so it’s important to have well-functioning gutters and to properly grade the soil so it slopes away from your foundation.
What to watch for:
• Water pooling near the foundation
• Musty basement odors
• Cracks in basement walls or floors
Pest Infestations: Standing water in clogged gutters is like a welcome mat for pests. Mosquitoes love stagnant water, and clogged gutters provide the perfect breeding ground. Birds, rodents, and insects can also nest in gutter debris and eventually make their way into your attic or walls.
What to watch for:
• Increased mosquito activity around your home
• Signs of nesting in gutters, like twigs, feathers, or droppings
• Unusual scratching sounds from the attic
Ice Dams in Winter: In colder climates, clogged gutters can contribute to ice dams. When water can’t drain properly, it can freeze at the roof’s edge and trap more water behind it. As that water backs up, it can push up roof shingles and leak into your home, causing interior damage.
What to watch for:
• Large icicles hanging from the roofline
• Water stains on interior walls or ceilings
• Warped or stained exterior siding
5 DIY Tips to Keep Your Gutters Clear
Now that you know the risks, here’s the good news: clogged gutters are preventable with just a little maintenance. Take these simple steps to protect your home.
1. Clean Gutters Twice a Year: At a minimum, gutters need to be cleaned in the spring and fall—and if you’ve got lots of trees nearby, you’ll need to clean them even more often. You’ll need a ladder, gloves, and a gutter scoop to remove debris. Read this article for step-by-step directions.
2. Check Downspouts for Blockages: Even if your gutters are clear, water won’t drain properly if the downspouts are clogged. Use a hose to run water through the downspouts and make sure it flows out the bottom. If it doesn’t, you may need a plumber’s snake or pressure nozzle to clear any blockages. Once you’re sure they’re clear, add a downspout guard to stop future clogs from forming. To keep water moving away from your foundation, you may also want to add a Tilt and Drain Downspout Extender— it extends your downspout three to six feet and has a unique design that makes it easy to flip it up and out of way for mowing and other lawn or yard work.
3. Install Gutter Guards: Gutter guards are mesh or screen covers that go over the tops of gutters to keep leaves and large debris out while still letting water through. Install them after cleaning gutters to reduce future buildup and the frequency of cleanings.
4. Trim Nearby Trees: Overhanging branches can drop leaves, twigs, and other debris right onto your roof and gutters. Trim trees and large shrubs away from your roof to keep gutters clear.
5. Do a Visual Check After Major Storms: Heavy rain and wind can damage your gutter system. After a storm, take a walk around your home and check for overflowing water, sagging sections, or disconnected downspouts. If you see water pouring over the edge of the gutter while it’s raining, that’s a sign there’s a blockage that needs to be cleared.
When to Call in the Pros
Some gutter issues are tougher to tackle than others, especially if you have a multi-story house or a steep roof. If you’re not comfortable on a ladder or if your gutters haven’t been cleaned in years, it may be time to call in the professionals.
