Signs of Clogged Gutters On Your Home

These are signs of Clogged Gutters on your home.

​A good gutter system can help prevent many issues towards your home, this can include damages to your lawn and landscaping, basement flooding and structural damage to your house.  Your gutter system works with your roof to defend the house against storm water and other various debris.  Make sure you take the time to clean your gutters frequently, or they can get clogged with leaves, twigs, and tiny rocks.  And, if you are not sure if your gutters are clogged, read further for a list of signs that suggest they are. 

Look for signs of mildew or rust

If water accumulates along your gutters, they may have already begun to form rust or mildew.  Rust or mildew form because of a chemical reaction with the water, and you will be able to see the staining alongside the gutters or on the sides of your home.  Mildew or rust can cause your gutter system to weaken.  If you notice signs of mildew or rust, it may be time to take action.  Depending on how much damage has been done, you will either have to repair or replace the gutters.  Remember you can always hire a professional to do this for you. ​

Look for cracks or sagging gutters

Just like rust and mildew, cracks in your gutters suggest that they are clogged or compromised.  Cracks in your gutters lead to leaks, so you should make it a priority to replace or repair any cracks in your gutters.  Also, if your gutters look uneven or they are pulling away from the house, that could suggest your gutters are sagging. Gutters that sag mean that they are probably too clogged to function properly and will need to be fixed.  You should fix the clogged gutters sooner rather than later because cracked or sagging gutters can lead to costly damage later on.   

Pooled Water

If storm water has pooled around or near your downspouts this could also cause some serious damage.  This pooled water can make it into the foundation of your home, and having water underneath your house can lead to mold inside.  The mold will then rot the interior of your house and cause expensive structural damages.  If you notice pooled water, take action ASAP! Have a professional check out your gutter system, and foundation.  Sometimes, having an extension to your downspouts that can lead the water further from your house may be necessary.  

Watch Out For Animals and Debris

Remember that cleaning your gutters and removing leaves, twigs and other debris is important in keeping your system working right. If you begin to notice birds, insects, and critters spending time around your gutters and roof it may be time to clean them again.  Accumulated debris is where animals make comfortable living spaces for themselves.   If you have animals living in your gutters, your gutters cannot function properly.

Damage to The Exterior of Your Home

If you notice paint peeling or chipping away from the exterior of your house, it may be due to ineffective gutters.  Storm water could be leaking through or overflowing and splashing up against the outside of the home.  This causes paint to peel away and then the wood siding underneath begins to rot. Peeling paint is a warning that your gutter needs to be fixed or replaced. ​