While the autumn means a lot of fun activities for the whole family, from apple picking to pumpkin patch trips, this season is one of the worst for your gutters and home exterior. Your gutters are the most prone to clogging (and causing problems) in the fall.
If your gutters aren’t protected, falling leaves and small twigs can build up and cause all types of issues, including:
- Clogs and overflow
- Loose or sagging parts
- Damaged downspouts
- Seam leaks
- And more
Damaged gutters don’t function properly, so timely repair and maintenance are essential. However, a more proactive approach is the best way to keep gutters clean and prevent these problems.
Gutter guards (such as mesh gutter screens and Gutter Helmet) can make a significant difference.
How to Tell if Your Gutters Are Clogged
Gutters protect your home from unwanted moisture and leaks, but if they’re clogged with foliage and other debris, your property is at risk of water damage. Here are some steps you can take to keep your home secure.
Survey Using a Ladder
To inspect the interior of the gutters, safely position a ladder and look for signs of debris, such as leaves, twigs and dirt. Standing water is also noticeable when using a ladder and is a sign that your gutters are clogged.
Check for Sagging Gutters
Sagging and cracking gutters will be observable along your roofline. Check the gutters’ alignment with the roofline to ensure there’s no damage. Due to the added weight, gutters filled with debris or standing water will pull away from the house.
Look for Plant Growth
Inspect gutters for any signs of plant or moss growth. Plant growth is most visible from ground level in the corners and outlets of the gutters. Plant growth is a clear sign that dirt and debris have accumulated, providing a medium for seeds to germinate and continue to clog gutters.
Examine for Water Stains on Your Siding
Check the exterior walls of your home for water stains and streaks. Plant growth causes water contaminated with minerals, metals, dirt and grime to spill over gutters and stain areas of contact.
The Best Way to Keep Gutters Clean & Debris-Free
Provide Leaf Protection with Quality Gutter Covers
Unfortunately, gutters can get clogged with leaves, small branches and twigs, buds, pine needles and other debris. This is where gutter guards, or leaf screens, come in handy.
These gutter protection systems help keep out debris and prevent clogging without blocking water flow. They’re especially effective in the fall and spring, when gutters are most prone to clogging, but are beneficial all year long.
Regular cleaning and maintenance are recommended to keep gutters clear, but leaf protection systems are a great way to be proactive.
Gutter Services in Rochester & Syracuse, NY
If your gutters are old or are experiencing problems, now is the perfect time to invest in new ones and a gutter guard system. Are you interested in installing new gutters?
MIG Building Systems has all your needs covered. We’ll install high-quality gutters and leaf screens to keep your home looking great and functioning properly this fall (and all year long).
Contact us today to learn more.
FAQs About Gutters
How do I unclog a blocked gutter?
Flush gutters with a water hose during summer to eliminate unwanted debris. A drain auger can be used to clear downspouts.
How do you clear gutters you can’t reach?
Attachments for garden hoses and leaf blowers extend the reach of gutter-clearing tools.
What happens if you leave gutters clogged?
Gutters that are left clogged corrode, causing leaks and major damage.
Do gutter leaf guards really work?
Yes, absolutely. Gutter guards and leaf screens protect gutters from accumulating debris without hindering water flow.
