Clogged Gutters Problems

Wall and ceiling damage.

Clogged gutters problems.

Clogged gutters lead to overflows water spillage around the building water entry as well as gutter damage. When gutters become clogged they can t drain properly and can start to overflow during rainstorms. Instead the water will spill over the side of your gutters leading to a number of different issues like foundation damage structural issues mold and mildew and basement flooding. The most common problem we see with gutters is clogging.

In colder climates ice dams can form on the gutters or the lower edge of the roof causing water to pool and eventually seep into the home. While ice dams can form on homes with clean gutters clogged gutters prevent water from draining which increases the chance for ice dams. Water can saturate the roof surface and weaken its integrity. Angie s list guide to gutter cleaning.

The excess weight of leaves twigs and standing water can also make them sag and pull away from the fascia. Left untended gutters and downspouts get so clogged with debris that they re rendered useless. With each gallon of water weighing about 8 pounds all that extra weight can bend your gutters or tear them away from the roof. This can wreak havoc on the gutters and the roof which can result in cracks separation of joints gardens growing in the gutter and a number of other problems.

This is the most common problem of all. Clogged gutters can also cause water leaks on the inside of your home. When the water can t pass through properly it can start to cause problems with your foundation. Trapped water can rot the wooden fascia boards your gutters are mounted to letting moisture enter your home.

G g utter screens and shields may be installed to reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning but these components are by no means a magic bullet nor a substitute for regular gutter inspection and cleaning and if not properly installed they make gutter cleaning more difficult. When water cannot flow through the gutters properly it becomes clogged and can add excessive weight to the system. Clean them at least once a year and twice a year if you have a lot of trees nearby. When your gutters become clogged water will be unable to properly divert away from your home.