Do you have clogged gutters? It’s not just a matter of watching the rain pour over the sides of your gutter system. There could be a lot more at stake. Did you know that your gutters are an essential part of your roofing system?
It’s true. Your roof and gutters protect you, your house, and everything in it. It’s kind of like a forcefield. They work together and if one part is malfunctioning, the whole system suffers.
Related: Replacing Your Outdated and Wrong-Sized Gutter System
Gutters packed with leaves, sticks, acorns, and who-knows-what-else can lead to damage that could cost you a lot of time and money. Let’s avoid that if we can.
The right gutter system can help you avoid all of the following problems.
Weather Vane Roofing can provide you with a free estimate and a few options. Call 1-800-517-3214
If you have clogged gutters, here are a few problems you could encounter:
#1: A Flooded Basement
Yikes! No one wants to discover water in their basement. What a mess. When your gutters get clogged and overflow, water runs down the side of your home and eventually into your basement.
#2: Foundation Issues
You might not have a basement, but every house has a foundation. Clogged gutters can cause water to run into the sand, dirt, or clay your home is sitting on. When this gets too wet your foundation can shift, which causes cracks and buckling.
#3: Driveway Problems
If your overflowing gutters force water to run under your driveway it can can cause the same types of issues as water under your foundation or in your crawlspace. You may notice cracks or holes in your driveway–or even shifting. Not only does this look terrible, it can cause damage to your vehicles too.
#4: Ruined Landscaping
Rain is great for your flowers and gardens. However, too much rain at one time can ruin your landscaping. Your plants, shrubs, and trees can drown or even wash away with all your expensive mulch.
#5 : Ice Build Up
If your gutters are full of debris and water when the temperature drop below freezing they can become too heavy and pull away from the house. Also, if water overflows on walking areas (driveway, deck, sidewalk, or porch) this can cause dangerous ice patches.
#6: Standing Water
Clogged gutters often contain standing water which is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects. But that’s not ever the worst part. Standing water and bugs attract rodents and no one wants those pests near their home. Yuck!
#7: Water Damage
Water is both life sustaining and incredibly damaging. Water that is running over the sides of your gutters can also run down and behind your siding. It may find its way into your house–not just your basement. Unmanaged waterflow can rot away window frames and flooring. This usually happens before you realize it and then you have windows and floors to replace.
#8: Damage to Fascia and Soffits
Heavy gutters full of water and debris can damage your soffits and fascia. If they crack water can get into your home, causing further damage.
#9: Moss and Algae
If your gutters are clogged they tend to stay damp for a long time. Moss and algae love to grow in damp places. Green fuzzy gutters not only look bad, but can also break down and cause other parts of your roofing system to have problems.
#10: Roof Damage
If your gutters aren’t working properly your roof won’t either. Clogged gutters can lead to:
- deteriorating shingles
- rotting roof deck
- wet insulation
- water in your home
- damage to ceilings and walls
One last thing to consider…
Size matters. Where have we heard that before? It is important to properly size your gutters for your roof and home. We can help.
Not sure what’s wrong your gutter system and want someone to take a look?
Don’t hesitate to call us for an inspection. 1-800-517-3214
About Weather Vane Roofing
We provide roofing, siding, insulation, windows and gutters. Making your house beautiful and efficient is our main goal. We use the latest in technology and products to provide eco-friendly and cost effective solutions for your home and business. With locations in Lansing, Owosso, and Brighton/Howell we are Mid-Michigan’s roofing experts. Let us transform your house into a home.
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