7 Signs You Have Clogged Gutters (With Quick Fixes)

Through their ability to direct rainwater away from the roof and foundation, gutters are an essential component of water damage prevention for homes. Gutter blockages caused by dirt, leaves, and twigs, however, prevent gutters from operating properly and can result in a number of issues. 

In order to address these problems before they get worse, we’ll look at seven typical indicators that you might have clogged gutters in this blog post.

What Happens If Your Gutters Are Clogged

By diverting rainwater away from the foundation, gutters are essential for preventing water damage to your home. However, clogged gutters can cause a number of issues that can jeopardize your home’s structural integrity. Let’s delve in to understand the different signs that you have clogged gutters and how to fix them:

#1. Overflowing Gutters

When rainwater overflows your gutters rather than going down the downspouts, it’s a definite indication that your gutters are clogged. When there are blockages in the gutters, water cannot be directed away from your home properly, leading to overflow and damage to your siding, landscaping, and foundation. Additionally, this may produce puddles close to your home, which may draw pests and mosquitoes.

Quick Fix: 

Clean your gutters frequently by removing leaves and twigs to prevent overflow caused by clogs. To prevent debris from getting in, you can also install gutter guards. To ensure adequate drainage, check that your gutters are correctly sloped toward the downspouts.

#2. Sagging Gutters

When gutters get clogged, water and debris buildup make them heavy, which can cause them to sag or pull away from the roofline. This puts your home at risk for water damage and detracts from its aesthetic appeal. 

Quick Fix: 

As needed, quickly replace or reattach damaged gutter sections to address this issue. Clear out your gutters to remove any blockages that are weighing down the pipes. After that, replace any worn-out or damaged gutter hangers and brackets. Finally, securely reattach the gutters to your home. Even more damage can be avoided with prompt maintenance and repairs. 

#3. Water Damage on Exterior Walls

Water seeping into your home’s exterior walls due to clogs can eventually lead to rot, stains, peeling paint, other exterior home damage, and structural problems. Your siding may have discoloration from water, which could be an indication of clogged gutters as water is running down your home instead of through the downspouts. 

Quick Fix:

Clear the gutters to ensure proper drainage and repair any water damage. Replace rotted wood, repaint peeling paint, or caulk cracks to repair damaged wall sections. Install splash blocks or downspout extensions to divert water away from your home’s walls and foundation. To prevent future water intrusion, patch up any siding gaps or cracks and seal them with a waterproof sealer. 

#4. Plant Growth in Gutters

Weeds or plants that sprout from clogged gutters are signs that there is standing water there, which can encourage plant growth. This water is stagnant, which draws bugs and speeds up gutter deterioration. Clogged gutters can be a huge breeding ground for moss and algae, which can cause further harm and be difficult to remove.

Quick Fix:

To prevent plant growth in clogged gutters, manually remove vegetation and treat with a cleaner or mildew remover. Trim overhanging branches to reduce debris accumulation. Additionally, install gutter guards to prevent future plant growth and maintain a regular cleaning schedule for clear gutters.

#5. Insect Infestations

Stagnant water in clogged gutters attracts pests like mosquitoes, termites, and other insects seeking breeding grounds and can pose health risks and potential home damage. An infestation around your home may signal clogged gutters. 

Quick Fix:

Get rid of the dirt that attracts pests and clear out any standing water in your gutters to stop them from breeding. Install covers or screens to prevent insects from entering the gutters, and use natural repellents or insecticides to stop nesting. 

#6. Mold and Mildew Growth

Your and your family’s health can be at risk because moisture caught in clogged gutters promotes the growth of mold and mildew. A stale smell or black spots on external walls are signs of mold and mildew. Clogged gutters create a damp environment ideal for these fungi to grow in, which can be difficult to get rid of.

Quick Fix:

Make sure your gutters are completely clear of any debris and standing water to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. To get rid of any existing mold and mildew stains, mix a solution of water and bleach. Regularly cleaning the gutters with a mold killing solution can also prevent any extensive issues. 

#7. Basement Flooding

Clogged gutters can cause basement flooding due to water pooling around the foundation and seeping into the structure. This overflow increases the possibility of mold growth and puddles in the basement, making cleanup difficult and putting your home at risk of damage.

Quick Fix: 

Prevent basement flooding by ensuring the downspouts direct water away from the foundation and maintaining proper grading around your home. Extend downspouts to divert water away from the house and ensure the ground slopes away from the foundation. Regularly clean gutters and ensure proper drainage to prevent flooding. You can also install a sump pump as a backup and consider waterproofing basement walls and floors for added protection.

Also Read: Expert Tips On Gutter Maintenance For Homeowners

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Clogged Gutter Damage? 

Homeowners insurance in Wisconsin typically covers gutter and water damage from events like wind, hail, or falling objects such as trees. However, coverage can vary, so check your policy to know what’s included. Regularly checking and maintaining gutters can prevent damage and future insurance claims.

If neglect causes gutter overflow and water damage, insurance might not cover it, stressing the need for proper maintenance. When claiming water damage, take photos, get repair estimates, and contact your insurer promptly.

Want Clog-Free Gutters? We Have Got You Covered!

To sum up, regular maintenance of your gutters is important to safeguard your home from water damage and maintain its structural integrity. BRH Enterprises offers comprehensive gutter services to keep your gutters clean and functioning properly. By staying alert to signs of clogged gutters and promptly addressing any issues, you can prevent costly repairs in the future.

Our team can provide regular gutter cleaning, inspections, and repairs to ensure that rainwater is effectively channeled away from your home. Trust BRH Enterprises to keep your gutters in top condition and protect your home for years to come. Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your gutter maintenance with us today to avoid potential headaches down the line! Give us a call at (920) 249-4228.