Cleaning gutters may not be the most enjoyable job, but it really is essential. If you don’t clean your gutters, they are likely to develop clogs. And clogged gutters can lead to a whole host of bigger problems. The following are just five of the key ways in which clogged gutters can cause damage to your home.
1. Foundation and Basement Damage
When your gutters clog, water flows down the side of your home, exposing your foundation to excessive moisture. This can eventually cause your foundation to crack, and before long, you’ll have water in your basement. A moist basement is an open invitation to mold, and mold can lead to various health issues. It’s a lot easier to clean gutters than to dry out and repair a leaky basement.
2. Interior Damage
Clogged gutters allow water to pool on the roof, and this can lead to roof leaks. Before long, roof leaks can lead to water damage on your ceilings and walls. From ugly brown spots to rot and mold, interior water damage can be ugly and expensive to repair.
3. Broken Gutters
The leaves and other debris which get caught in gutters tend to hold onto water. As it does, it becomes heavier and heavier. Eventually, this can cause a gutter to sag and break. You’ll then need to have the gutters replaced, which is more costly and time-consuming than simply cleaning them.
4. Damaged Landscaping
If you have beautiful garden beds around your home, then it’s imperative to keep your gutters clear. If the gutters do become clogged and water starts pouring over the sides, it may leave big dents and depressions in your garden beds. It may also run towards the edge of the bed, carrying soil and mulch with it.
5. Insect Invasions
Insects love wet gunk accumulating in gutters. They also love to gather in attics and moist basements due to clogged gutters and the resulting damage. If any wooden components become wet and rotten, you may even end up with termites and carpenter ants. These pests can do incredible damage to your home.
If you want to keep your whole home in good shape, gutter cleaning really is essential. If you need gutter repair or replacement, contact Moore and Sons Roofing in Grand Rapids, MI.