Nobody waits until a sink is completely backed up before dealing with a slow drain, and gutters deserve the same attention.
Leaves, twigs, shingle granules, and debris build up over time just like they would in a pipe, and once a gutter is clogged, water has nowhere to go except over the edge and down the side of the house.
Gutters collect more than water, since falling leaves, seeds, roofing granules, and even nesting material from birds and small animals can settle in the channel and slow the flow of water.
Over time, this debris packs together, especially when it gets wet, and can block the gutter almost as completely as a clogged pipe.
Water spilling over the sides of the gutter during a rainstorm, sagging sections, plants or grass sprouting from the gutter, and stains on the fascia board underneath are all signs that a gutter is not draining the way it should.
Waiting until water is visibly overflowing usually means the clog has already been building for a while.
Cleaning gutters usually involves removing loose debris by hand or with a small scoop, then flushing the gutter and downspouts with a hose to confirm that water is moving freely to the ground.
A stable ladder, gloves, and eye protection are important, and homeowners should avoid leaning too far to either side while working, since most ladder related injuries happen from overreaching rather than the height itself.
Most homes benefit from having gutters cleaned at least twice a year, and homes with large trees nearby may need more frequent attention.
It is also a good idea to check gutters after any major storm, since heavy wind and rain can add a large amount of debris in a short amount of time.
As a local roofing company, we believe gutter maintenance is worth taking seriously, since a clogged gutter does not just cause overflow, it can also lead to fascia damage, foundation problems, and issues that eventually affect the roof itself.
Homes with steep rooflines, multiple stories, or gutters that are difficult to reach safely are usually better served by having a professional handle the cleaning.
Get a free, no-obligation inspection from South Florida's trusted roofers. Serving all of Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade County since 1987.