How can Clogged Gutters Damage my Home?
Gutters, often overlooked yet play such an important role in protecting your home. As leaves, dirt and other debris clog up the gutters, this not only causes water to inconveniently fall but also puts your home at risk of many different issues. What do gutters put at risk exactly and how does this happen?
Why Do Gutters Get Clogged?
Gutters become clogged when leaves, twigs, dirt, and debris accumulate and block the flow of water. Typically gutter clogging happens most often during fall and winter, but depending on where you live this can happen any time of the year. When gutters are clogged, rainwater has nowhere to go and ends up overflowing. That’s when the real damage starts.
5 Ways Clogged Gutters Can Damage Your Home
1. Foundation Damage
How it happens: When water overflows from clogged gutters, it pools around the foundation of the home. Over time, this water can seep into the ground, causing foundation cracks or shifts.
The result: A weakened or cracked foundation can lead to uneven floors, walls separating from ceilings, and doors or windows that don’t close properly.
2. Roof Leaks and Damage
How it happens: Water trapped in clogged gutters can back up under your roof’s shingles. This causes leaks, rot, and potential structural damage to the roof.
The result: Roof leaks are costly to repair, and if left unchecked, they can cause damage to the attic, ceiling, and even interior walls.
3. Water Damage to Siding and Walls
How it happens: When water spills over from clogged gutters, it can run down the side of the house. Over time, this can damage the siding, causing wood rot, mold growth, or staining.
The result: Damaged siding not only looks bad but can lead to water seeping into the walls, causing more extensive and expensive repairs.
4. Basement Flooding
How it happens: Water overflowing near the foundation can find its way into your basement, especially if there are any cracks or weak points in the foundation.
The result: A flooded basement can destroy personal belongings, create mold problems, and even damage a home’s electrical systems.
5. Landscape Erosion
How it happens: Water that spills over clogged gutters can erode soil around the home, washing away flower beds, grass, and even walkways.
The result: Can cause yard damage and possibly need to spend money on landscaping repairs.
Resources
- https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/soil-water-conservation/drainage-problem-downspouts
- https://mountclemens.gov/vertical/sites/%7BD2219A68-6FCA-467C-B14C-0C646CD06447%7D/uploads/Gutters_and_Downspouts_-Mt._Clemens(1).pdf
- https://www.gsa.gov/real-estate/historic-preservation/historic-preservation-policy-tools/preservation-tools-resources/technical-procedures/general-inspection-and-maintenance-of-gutters-and-downspouts