Homeowners must monitor their home’s gutters to ensure they remain clear of debris. Any buildup in the gutters can interfere with the proper flow of water and lead to foundation problems and other issues. This means the homeowner is facing expensive repairs. What should a homeowner look for when examining their gutters? The following are ten signs that gutters need cleaning.
Animals and Pets
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Animals and pests should not be around the gutters of the home. If they congregate in this area, something is wrong. Dirty gutters attract animals. The homeowner might notice scampering sounds on the roof or see animals on the roof when they leave or return home. This suggests the gutters need to be cleaned. Why do animals like clogged gutters?
A clogged gutter is likely filled with leaves, twigs, seeds, nuts, and other things animals like to eat and make their homes with. They find many of these items in the gutters, which means they don’t have to work as hard. They can accumulate the things they need and move on to other tasks. Why should they hunt for something when they have an abundant source readily available? Call for a gutter cleaning to remove these invaders quickly.
Bending or Sagging Gutters
Over time, gutters bend and sag. This may be because of the weight of the debris in the gutters or it could be the gutter system is failing in other ways. If the property owner doesn’t address this problem quickly, the gutters may pull away from the home, damaging the soffit and fascia. In addition, the gutters may come down and damage other items on the property, such as cars or windows. Have the gutters replaced before this happens to prevent the need for additional repairs?
Plant Growth
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Any moss on the roof suggests there is also moss in the gutters. Over time, the moss on the roof detaches and makes its way into the gutters, where it can lead to a blockage. Gutters often remain damp and cool, which provides the perfect environment for plants of all types. They have an ongoing water supply, particularly in the gutters on the north-facing side of the home.
In many cases, weeds grow in gutters. However, flowers may also make a home here. Although they may look pretty and appear to add to the curb appeal of the home, they interfere with the gutters’ ability to direct water away from the home. As a result, they need to be removed immediately.
Overflowing Water
Any blockage in the gutters prevents water from making its way to the downspout and away from the structure. If the water gets high enough, it will flow over the sides of the gutter. This can lead to damage to the foundation, landscaping, and more. In addition, the roof could begin leaking if the water backs up enough. The water then makes its way into the home, and water damage is costly to repair. Remove the blockage to prevent these problems.
External Wall Staining
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When the debris leads to the gutters overflowing, the homeowner may notice staining and mildew on the exterior walls. This occurs when the water splashes out of the gutters and onto the walls and roof. The first sign is either an overwhelming smell of mildew or staining on the walls beneath the gutters. Immediately clean the gutters before they overflow and lead to additional problems.
In addition, if there are any cracks in the walls, the water may make its way into the home. This leads to a damp interior. Mold may grow in the home, or other problems might arise. Address the clogged gutters immediately.
A Leaky Roof
A homeowner cannot ignore a roof that is leaking, as it could lead to significant water damage and costly repairs. Clogged gutters can lead to water building up on the roof and making its way into the home. This water has nowhere else to go. Repairing or replacing the roof costs more than having the gutters cleaned, so call for this service today.
Cracked Walls and Brickwork
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When water makes its way into the walls or brickwork of the structure, they may begin to crack. Rectify this problem immediately. A failure to do so could lead to structural damage and put the building at risk of falling. Clogged gutters allow water to make its way into the walls or brickwork. Have them cleaned promptly to minimize the damage, and have the walls or brickwork fixed to protect the structural integrity of the building.
Slippery Surfaces
A homeowner may not realize their gutters are clogged until they slip and fall. The water overflowing the gutters has to go somewhere. If it lands on a walkway or other area the occupants of the home or building typically traverse, they may find the surface is slippery and they end up falling. Check the gutters to see if they are the source of the problem.
Changing of the Seasons
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Property owners should clean their gutters when the seasons change. During the fall, leaves come down and may make their way into the gutters. Snowstorms often bring branches and tree limbs down. Some debris could end up in the gutters. Furthermore, the gutters need to be clean to allow any snow melt to move away from the building. Spring and summer come with heavy rains, and the gutters need to be clear to direct water away from the building.
They Haven’t Been Cleaned Recently
If a property owner cannot remember the last time the gutters were cleaned, it’s time to call a company that specializes in this task. Gutters need to be cleaned multiple times a year. Even those buildings with gutter guards need attention. Debris can make its way under the gutter guard and lead to a clog. Cleaning them reduces the risk of problems.
Clean your gutters today. If help is needed with this task, reach out to the professionals. This is one maintenance task that should never be delayed. Doing so could lead to damage to the building and costly repairs. Take the time to complete this task today so problems don’t develop.
