What happens if you don’t clean your gutters

What happens if you don’t clean your gutters.

Updated: Aug 1, 2023

 

Hiring a gutter cleaning service is an investment in your home and family. If you don’t clean your gutters regularly, several problems can arise. Here are some consequences of neglecting gutter cleaning:

 

Clogged gutters can cause water damage to fascia, siding, gutters and walls.

 
 
 
 

Water damage can occur when water overflows from clogged gutters and runs against the fascia to which the gutter is attached. The fascia, being a horizontal board that runs along the edge of the roof, is particularly vulnerable to water damage.

 

Water flowing against the fascia can seep into the wood, causing it to rot gradually. This can weaken the structural integrity of the fascia board.

 

The fascia board is where the screws attach to hold the gutters to the house. Once the fascia rots the gutters can begin to sag or pull away from the house.

 

Furthermore, the overflowing water can also splash against the siding of the building. Siding shields walls from moisture, but constant splashing can let water in and damage the underlying materials. This can result in water stains, mold growth, and even structural damage to the walls. Water splashing against siding also increases the need for house washing to maintain a clean appearance.

 
 
 
 

Clogged gutters can damage your roof.

 

One of the primary concerns is water seeping under the shingles. Shingles protect against water, but if water gets underneath, it can cause big damage. The water can damage the underlying structure of the roof, leading to rot, mold, and mildew growth. This not only weakens the roof’s integrity but also poses health risks to the occupants of the house.

 

Furthermore, the continuous presence of water can create leaks in the roof. These leaks may start small, but over time, they can worsen and cause extensive water damage to the interior of your home. However, the unseen consequences can be even more problematic, such as weakened support beams, electrical hazards, and compromised insulation.

 

If you fail to address clogged gutters, the water damage can worsen. This could result in significant expenses for repairs or even require the replacement of your roof. The structural integrity of the roof may become compromised, making it unable to withstand the weight of heavy rain or snow. This can result in further leaks, collapses, or even the risk of the entire roof caving in.

 

When gutters become clogged, they create a perfect environment for pests to thrive.

 

Mosquitoes, ants, and termites are particularly attracted to the stagnant water that collects in clogged gutters. These pests not only cause annoyance but also pose serious threats to your home and the health of your family.

 

Mosquitoes are notorious for breeding in standing water, and clogged gutters provide an ideal breeding ground for them. Female mosquitoes lay their eggs in the stagnant water, and within a matter of days, these eggs hatch into larvae.

 

The baby mosquitoes grow up and become adult mosquitoes. They can bite people and spread diseases like West Nile virus, dengue fever, and Zika virus. Mosquitoes near your home can make outdoor activities unpleasant and increase the chance of getting sick with dangerous diseases.

 

Ants are another common pest that thrives in clogged gutters. They are attracted to the moisture and organic debris that accumulates in the gutters. Once they establish a colony, they can quickly invade your home, searching for food and water sources.

 

Ants can contaminate your food, damage your property, and even cause electrical issues by chewing through wires. Additionally, some ant species, like fire ants, can deliver painful bites that may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

 

Termites, often referred to as silent destroyers, are attracted to the damp and decaying wood that can be found in clogged gutters. These pests can cause significant damage to the structure of your home, as they feed on wood and other cellulose materials. If left unchecked, termite infestations can weaken the integrity of your home, leading to costly repairs and potential safety hazards.

 

In addition to the physical damage they cause, these pests also pose health risks to you and your family. Mosquitoes, as mentioned earlier, can transmit various diseases, while ants can contaminate your food and cause allergic reactions. Termites release particles that can cause breathing issues, especially for people with asthma or other respiratory conditions.

 

Water overflowing from clogged rain gutters can damage your foundation and landscaping.

 

Landscape erosion is a significant concern that can have detrimental effects on the overall health and stability of your property. One of the primary causes of landscape erosion is the overflow of water from clogged gutters. Blocked gutters can’t properly redirect water away from your home’s foundation due to debris like leaves, twigs, and dirt.

 

The erosion of soil around your home’s foundation can have severe consequences. The continuous exposure to water can weaken the foundation, leading to cracks and structural damage. Over time, this can compromise the stability of your entire property, requiring costly repairs.

 

Landscape erosion harms your home’s foundation and can make plants and trees die. The force of the water can wash away the top layer of soil, exposing the roots of plants and trees. This excess water can oversaturate the soil and drown plants.

 

The wet conditions will invite bugs that can infest and kill plants. Shrub removal and replacement is an expensive time consuming project. The erosion can also create uneven ground, causing potential tripping hazards and making it difficult to maintain a level landscape.

 

Hiring a gutter cleaner is an investment in your home and family.

 

Clean your gutters twice a year or more if you live in a rainy area or near trees to prevent issues. Regular gutter cleaning can help maintain the integrity of your home and prevent costly repairs in the long run.

 

The typical cost of gutter cleaning is little in comparison to these costly issues. Hiring a professional gutter cleaning service to flush the gutters and downspouts can ensure water flows where it supposed too. Let our gutter cleaners protect your home and gutter system and enjoy peace of mind knowing your gutter maintenance is in good hands

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