By Stephen Morad
Your gutters are your house’s first line of defense against rain and water damage, but they are often overlooked when it comes to home maintenance. However, keeping your gutters clean is essential to protecting your house.
- Plant Growth
Plants growing out of your gutters is a clear sign they’re due for a cleaning. Plants only grow when there’s enough soil and nutrients present within your gutters to sustain them. This takes time to build up, indicating that your gutters haven’t been cleaned for too long so a cleaning is in order.
- Leaking Roof
If your roof is leaking, blocked gutters could be the cause. When your gutters are blocked, water starts to pile up on your roof and eventually it can leak through, causing more serious damage. If blocked gutters are causing your roof to leak, then they’re long overdue for a cleaning. The goal is to keep your gutters clean to avoid issues like this, but if it has reached the point, you should have your gutters cleaned immediately.
- Stains On Siding
Clogged gutters overflow and can splash water onto your walls, which can leave stains. Signs of staining around your gutters can be an indication they are clogged and in need of a cleaning.
- Animal Presence
Animals are drawn to twigs, nuts, and other things they may find usable or edible in your gutters. The things that draw animals to your gutters are the same things that can cause your gutters to clog, and they can also lead to a rodent problem. If you notice a large presence of animals and critters around your gutters, it is probably time for a cleaning.
- Been A While
Given the unpredictability and harshness of New England weather, it is recommended that homeowners have their gutters cleaned at least twice a year. If you haven’t had them cleaned in more than a year, or can’t even remember the last time you had them cleaned, it might be time to do so.
About The Author
Stephen Morad owns Mr. Handyman of South Essex County alongside his wife Lori Morad. He’s been in the business for over 20 years, and has a wealth of knowledge and experience on all matters related to home repair. Stephen is a Licensed Contractor (CSL 094762) in the State of Massachusetts. Stephen has appeared locally on Fox News to discuss home improvements.
