At Experts In Your Home, we are enthusiastic about home upkeep. Our mission is to assist you in maintaining your home effectively, whether you opt for our services or gain knowledge from us. Gutter cleaning is an essential aspect of home maintenance that every homeowner should not overlook.
Ignoring clogged gutters might seem convenient, adhering to the “out of sight, out of mind” mentality. However, when gutters accumulate dirt, roofing debris, sticks, and leaves, it can lead to significant issues for your home. Ensure that you give priority to gutter cleaning in your home this year.
Now, let’s delve into the specific damages that can arise from clogged gutters:
Damages Caused by Blocked Gutters
In a prior blog authored by Experts In Your Home, we outlined the potential issues associated with clogged gutters, which include:
- Clogged gutters may lead to basement leakage, serving as a primary contributor to various basement and crawl space water-related problems such as leaks, dampness, mold, mildew, and increased humidity. These issues arise when clogged gutters overflow, causing water to accumulate around the foundation.
- The repercussions of clogged gutters can extend to foundation damage, with the settling of loose soil beneath the foundation over time. Uneven settling, exacerbated by water, can exert additional stress and result in cracks in the foundation. Repairing a compromised foundation can be a costly endeavor.
- Your driveway, patio, and walkways may also face compromises due to clogged gutters. Similar soil erosion dynamics can cause damage to asphalt, concrete, and paver stones, leading to cracks, settling, sags, and surface collapse.
- Clogged gutters can become a breeding ground for termites, mosquitoes, and other outdoor pests. Termites are attracted to standing water in gutters, as they require water for survival. Mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water, making open pools of water appealing to them. Additionally, birds, mice, and squirrels may be enticed by the water source, and some determined pests may even attempt to establish permanent residence in your home by accessing the attic.
- The exterior of your home, including roof shingles, soffit, fascia, and wood frame or trim, can suffer damage from clogged gutters, leading to the development of dry rot over time. (For assistance with this issue, refer to our previous article, “Home Tips: How to Detect and Repair Dry Rot In Your Home.”)
The Optimal Season for Gutter Cleaning
When it pertains to gutter maintenance, specific times of the year are advised. Typically, experts suggest cleaning your gutters during the spring and fall seasons.
In the Chico region, it might be more practical to perform gutter cleaning towards the latter part of the fall, given that our leaves tend to linger. Regardless, it is advisable to inspect and clean your gutters each spring and again in the fall to ready them for the winter rainfall.
What is the Necessary Frequency for Gutter Cleaning?
Is cleaning your gutters twice a year truly adequate? The answer relies on your location and the types of trees in your vicinity. For instance, according to professionals from Angie’s List,
Conducting a visual check four times annually will provide a clear understanding of any issues related to gutter clogs and debris. It is crucial not to neglect clogged gutters.