Signs Your Gutters Need Spring Cleaning

Springtime is ideal for home maintenance. But, with the host of household chores, homeowners often overlook gutter cleaning. Functional gutters channel water from the roof and drain it away from the house. However, when the gutters are clogged, water accumulates on the roof and damages roof shingles and siding. 



It is essential to have clean gutters during springtime to avoid water damage to your roof during the late spring rains. Here are some signs that indicate your gutter needs cleaning. 

Sagging Along Gutter Channels

Over time, leaves, sticks, dirt particles, and roofing materials accumulate on the gutters. When leaves and other debris accumulate in your gutter, they leave the water with nowhere to flow. The soggy debris and water build-up get heavy during the spring rains, causing sagging on the gutters. 

The stress on the gutters may eventually damage them completely. Remove all debris from your gutters and have them reshaped to restore their functionality. 

The Presence of Pests and Birds

Compressed leaves and debris make a good habitat for rodents such as mice and squirrels. Debris also offers a good place for birds to nest. Have your gutters cleaned promptly if you frequently find birds sitting on your gutters or squirrels tunneling into them. 

Ignoring the presence of pests in your gutters may encourage a pest infestation that may cost you a lot of money to eliminate. 

Plant Growth in the Gutters

During high winds, dirt gets blown onto rooftops. The dirt is subsequently swept off your roof and into your gutters when it rains. If sufficient dirt collects in your gutter, it forms a layer of soil that provides an ideal habitat for seeds blown into the gutter. The concave design of a gutter is also good for holding moisture, which offers the optimum environment for plant growth.

The additional weight from the plants may damage your gutters, and the blockage from the soil will prevent the free flow of water from your roof. 

Water Overflowing From the Gutters

A gutter system collects rainwater and runoff from melted snow from the roof and directs it away from your house. This helps protect the underlayment of your roof and the siding of your home from excessive moisture, which can cause wood rot. When leaves and debris clog your gutters, they cannot channel rainwater effectively. As a result, water accumulates and overflows over the home's exterior. The excess water can cause water damage, which may compromise your home's structural integrity. 

Stains and Mold on the Siding

When debris causes your gutters to overflow, the water may spill over onto the siding, causing water stains. Mold grows anywhere there is moisture. Therefore, the moisture seepage from overflowing gutters will create a suitable environment for mold growth. You may detect mold from its strong smell. 

A Pool of Water Near the Foundation 

When your gutters become clogged, water starts flowing over the side. While a modest amount of water will not harm your foundation, an excessive amount will damage your property. When excess water accumulates near your foundation, the soil in that area will expand. This expansion then increases the strain on the foundation's walls. 

If you do not resolve the water accumulation problem, you will likely see cracks and water damage as water seeps into the foundation. 

You Can't Remember When You Last Cleaned Them

Over time, dirt and debris build up in gutters, causing blockages. So, if it has been a while since you cleaned your gutters, you need to schedule a gutter cleanup. Having clear gutters ensures rainwater can flow freely away from your roof during springtime, preventing water damage.

Additionally, a professional can notice damage while cleaning your gutters and fix it before it becomes worse. If you have observed the above signs of blockage and debris on your gutters, Allstate Gutter & Siding is here to help. Contact us today for gutter maintenance services in Des Moines and the surrounding areas.