Gutters can become clogged due to a variety of reasons, including debris build-up, leaves and other plant material, and dirt and debris from rainwater. When gutters become clogged, the water flow into and out of the home becomes restricted, leading to water accumulation and dispersion into areas that can be problematic and costly.
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about your gutters until they’re clogged and water is spilling over the edge and onto your porch or yard. But did you know that clogged gutters can actually cause severe water damage to your home?
When gutters become clogged, the water has nowhere to go but down the side of your house or pool over around the perimeter. This can cause water to leak into your basement or seep into the walls and cause extensive damage. In some cases, the water can even cause the roof to rot.
Clogged Gutters Can Cause Roof Damage
Clogged gutters can cause roof water damage. When gutters are clogged, water can back up and flow under the shingle roof. This can cause the roof to rot and the sheathing and framing to become wet and decay.
Clogged Gutters Can Cause Interior Wall Damage
Water damage in walls can be caused by a number of factors, including a blocked gutter. If water accumulates inside the wall, it can cause mold and mildew to form, as well as damage to the insulation and framing. If the water damage is extensive, it may require extensive repair work.
Clogged Gutters Can Flood Your Basement
When your gutter is clogged, water can find its way into your basement. This can happen from water spilling over the gutter and accumulating around the base of your home. Or the water can find it’s way to your basement through the roof and interior walls. This can cause extensive damage and because often times the water damage is hidden, it can lead to mold.
Clogged Gutters Can Trigger a Mold Problem
Mold damage can be a serious problem, and it can be caused by clogged gutters. If water isn’t able to flow freely through your gutters, it will eventually find another path and sometimes that path could be through hidden avenues in your home. When water enters your home is not properly handled and dried, it can lead to mold.
If you suspect that you have a mold problem, it’s important to get it checked out by a professional. Ignoring the problem could lead to even more damage, and it could put your health at risk.
Don’t Ignore Clogged Gutters
In severe cases, this can lead to structural damage to your home and huge expenses. To prevent gutters from becoming clogged, check them on a regular basis. Keep your roof and gutters clean and free of debris. If you don’t want to do it yourself, many people hire a company to maintain and clean their gutters. You may also want to consider purchasing gutter protection to keep leaves and debris from plugging up your gutters.