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What Kind of Damage Can Clogged Gutters Cause?
Fall is here and you're probably noticing more and more leaves piling up not just on the ground, but also in your gutters. The primary job of gutters is to protect your home from water damage by diverting water away from the house, and though you may not notice them on a daily basis, they have an important job and should be cleaned out regularly. If you're not conscientious about your gutters, you could run into a variety of very expensive consequences!
Consequences of Clogged Gutters
1. Structural Damage
Though gutters don't seem like that big of a deal, they can be responsible for a lot of damage if they're not maintained. If your gutters stay clogged, it could result in a foundation shift, cracked foundation, walls, or chimney, and water damage to windows and walls.
2. Basement Flooding
If rainwater isn't being properly diverted away from your home, your gutters will start to overflow and the water will quickly find its way into your basement. When this occurs, you're facing the possibility of black mold, foul smells, and other water damage to your home and belongings.
3. Damaged Soffits and Fascia
Soffits and fascia serve primarily to block water from getting under your roof and into the rafters, and the fascia is actually what your gutters are attached to. If your gutters are clogged and fill with water, they become too heavy and pull away from your home. This results in your fascia and soffits having holes, gaps, or other similar issues.
4. Roof Damage
Standing water isn't good for anyone or anything. Not only does it become a breeding ground for unwanted pests, but it also can inflict damage on your roof. If your shingles come in contact with this standing water, it will make them deteriorate sooner. If the standing water goes undetected, it will seep through your roof and into your insulation. Before you know it, you will have water damage and a hefty bill.
5. Mold
Mold affects some more than others, but it's certainly not something you want to overlook in your home as it can cause serious health issues. When your roof leaks, the water seeps into your home and often isn't able to dry up. Where there is consistent moisture, there is likely mold. Keep your gutters unclogged, your roof leak-free, and your home in tip-top condition.
6. Pests
Clogged gutters are lovely homes for pests including mosquitoes, birds, mice, and squirrels. Not only do they serve as homes for these pests, but clogged gutters can also cause foundational damage, making space for these unwanted creatures to enter your home. Unless you want a squirrel or mouse as a roommate, get those gutters cleaned!
Basement floods, foundation shifts, and mold remediation aren't cheap. All of these fixes take a significant amount of time, money, and are inconvenient for everyone involved. We highly recommend that you take the cheaper option and regularly clean and maintain your gutters. If you aren't comfortable cleaning your gutters, we can help!
