Gutters have an important job. They’re responsible for directing water runoff away from your home, preventing it from seeping through and causing damage. Despite their importance, most homeowners don’t pay much attention to their gutters, only noticing problems when it’s too late and damage has already occurred. That’s why it’s so important to stay on top of professional gutter cleaning to ensure your home stays protected and prevent costly repairs.
Keep reading to learn seven signs to be on the lookout for that indicate it’s time to schedule professional gutter cleaning.
Why Regular Gutter Cleaning Matters
Before we get into that, though, let’s establish why regular gutter cleaning matters. Clogged gutters can have far-reaching effects on your home, impacting:
- Roof integrity
- Foundation stability
- Siding and exterior walls
- Landscaping
- And more
However, there are certainly risks to DIY gutter cleaning, including the risk of falling, injury from tools or debris, unexpected pests, roof damage, and mold exposure. Plus, it’s not an easy job — without the right tools and equipment, you’re in for a lot of hard work.
Seeking professional gutter cleaning is the smart choice. Professionals follow safe ladder practices, can perform inspections for early signs of damage, and have the tools required to completely remove even the most stubborn debris and even flush the downspouts. This saves you time and energy and provides valuable peace of mind that your gutters are running smoothly.
In general, it’s best to schedule professional gutter cleaning twice a year — in fall and spring. It’s also a good idea to schedule a cleaning after a major storm or before selling your home. However, if you have a lot of overhanging trees, you may need to get them cleaned more often. Be on the lookout for these signs that it’s time for professional gutter cleaning:
1. Water Overflowing During Rainstorms
During storms, water should flow through the downspouts and out and away from your home. If the water spills over the sides of your gutters instead, it can lead to foundation erosion, basement leaks, and damage to fascia and soffits. This overflow usually indicates blockages somewhere within your gutter system, which means it’s time for professional gutter cleaning to get things flowing freely again.
2. Sagging or Pulling Gutters
If your gutters are sagging, bending, or pulling away from the house, it may be due to heavy debris buildup or standing water. This can damage the edge of the roof, and if ignored for long enough, it can eventually lead to full gutter failure. Trust the gutter cleaning professionals to perform a full inspection and repairs.
3. Plants Growing in the Gutters
When organic debris builds up in your gutters, it creates soil-like conditions that plants can grow in when seeds get deposited there by the wind. Visible plant growth is a clear sign of long-term neglect that needs to be remedied as soon as possible — after all, water can’t flow freely if plants are in the way. Schedule professional gutter cleaning at the first sign of plant growth and get your gutters back on track.
4. Staining on Siding or Brick
Be on the lookout for dark streaks or discoloration on the siding or brick beneath your gutters. Clogged gutters can cause water to run down the exterior walls, creating stains over time. If this continues to happen, your siding, paint, and masonry are at serious risk of water damage.
5. Pests or Insects Around the Roofline
Standing water in your gutters can attract mosquitoes, ants, rodents, and birds. You may even find nesting materials in your gutters. These pests can cause health and safety concerns, which is why it’s important to stay on top of gutter cleaning.
6. Basement or Crawl Space Water Issues
Clogged gutters can allow water to run down the sides of your house, which ultimately trickles down into the foundation. If this happens, you may notice damp basement walls, musty odors, or water pooling near the foundation. Professional gutter cleaning ensures water flows through the downspouts and away from the foundation, protecting your home from further damage.
7. Ice Dams in Winter
If you live in a colder climate, clogged gutters can contribute to the formation of ice dams, which trap melted snow on your roof and can lead to leaks, shingle damage, and interior water damage. That’s why it’s essential to get your gutters cleaned in the fall before temperatures get below freezing.
Professional Gutter Cleaning by Gutter On
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s time to call Gutter On to schedule your professional gutter cleaning. Contact us today to get started!
