Key takeaways:
- Clogged gutters can cause roof damage, which may lead to expensive repairs.
- They can cause foundation problems, such as shifting and cracking.
- Flooding in the basement is another potential issue caused by clogged gutters.
- Additionally, clogged gutters may damage fascia boards and attract bugs.
- Shifts and cracks in driveways and sidewalks may also result from clogged gutters.
- In the summertime, fire hazards are more likely due to trapped leaves and branches in blocked gutters.
Landscape damage may occur when water from a blocked Gutter seeps into flower beds or gardens.
Your house is your most valuable investment – everyone understands it requires time and work to maintain it securely, pleasantly, and in good shape. Cleaning your home’s gutters is one of those activities that many homeowners overlook or neglect. Still, it is critical and doesn’t require much time, effort, or money.
Clogged gutters can cause a variety of more significant issues as well as some unexpected outcomes. This blog post by HT Roofing & Construction will discuss some of the most serious threats to your house and why you should regularly examine and clean your gutters.
Risk 01: Roof Damage
A completely functional gutter system is required for a fully functional roof. Your roof is designed to protect you and your home from the elements, but it can’t perform its job unless the gutter system is in place to drain water away from the house.
When the gutters get clogged, there is a greater chance of water gathering on the roof because it cannot flow away, causing roof damage and rotting, as well as gaps and potential leaks.
Roof rot and leaks can result in highly expensive repairs, as well as the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause health concerns.
Risk 02: Foundation Issues
Clogged gutters can potentially cause foundation problems. If the sand, soil, or clay beneath your home becomes too damp, it may erode, and your foundation may shift, causing cracks or buckling. Water can then spill over and down the sides of the home and into the foundation, creating more water damage and cracking. Additionally, if the weight of the water-logged soil is too much for your gutters to bear, they may pull away from your home entirely.
A foundation repair from a contractor might be between $2000 and $6000. Taking care of your gutters is a lot easier and less expensive approach to maintaining the foundation.
Risk 03: Flooding in the Basement
When water accumulates on the roof or stagnates in your gutters, it may easily leak into your basement or lower level and flood it.
Basement flooding is a severe issue that poses a safety concern and is one of the most expensive to address. Water entering your basement can cause gas leaks or electrical shocks, among the most serious threats.
Risk 04: Damage to Fascia Boards
The fascia boards are found on the exterior of your property and are used to support the gutter system. These boards are often composed of wood, making them extremely subject to damage and decomposition.
When your gutters get blocked and filled with water, the water will reach the woodwork, fascia, and siding of your home, causing it to rot and decay.
This degradation causes significant structural damage to your property, highly costly and prolonged repairs, and a likely mold and mildew problem.
Risk 05: Insect Infestations
Another risk of clogged gutters is insect infestations. When gutters are full of stagnant water, they become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests. Not only are these insects annoying, but they can also carry diseases that pose a serious health risk to you and your family. Keep your gutters clean and free of standing water to avoid insect infestations.
Risk 06: Shifts and Cracks in Driveways and Sidewalks.
Water seeping and pooling on your roads and sidewalks, as well as under them, is a common issue caused by blocked gutters and inadequate drainage. The water might cause driveways and sidewalks to expand and crack – the concrete and asphalt can crack and move under the effect of water, leaving you with more expensive repair work.
Cracks and shifts in driveways may also be a safety issue, as you or your family members might easily slip and fall on them; thus, it is critical to attempt to avoid this.
Risk 07: Fire Hazard
The last thing you probably expect from your gutters is a fire. You may opt to put off cleaning your gutters when it is hot and there isn’t much rain. However, this is the time when clean gutters are most crucial. In the summer, you’d be surprised how many fires are caused by blocked gutters. During the summer, many combustible materials, such as leaves and branches, can accumulate in your gutters, and one spark might set everything ablaze. Furthermore, water drainage from blocked gutters might enter your electrical system anytime, causing a short and electrical fire.
Risk 08: Landscape Damage
When gutters get clogged and water is prevented from flowing freely and away from your property, it might splash out and seep into places it should not.
Torrents of water can overflow the gutter and flood your environment, including your flower beds, garden, trees, and bushes. Water may wash away your mulch, damage and ruin your plants, and even attract unwanted and hazardous bugs.
In addition to harming your curb appeal, you will be left with a large mess on your landscaping and a time-consuming task.
Risk 09: Winter Ice Dams
An ice dam forms when water trapped in your gutter or around the edges of your roof freezes. This can result in a near-complete or entire blockage, resulting in even more water seeping into your home when the weather warms and the ice melts.
Ending Note:
If gutters aren’t cleaned regularly, they can cause many home issues. Make sure to clean up your gutters at least once a year to avoid water damage, bug infestations, and structural difficulties.
HT Roofing & Construction is here to help if you need gutter replacement or repair services in Olathe. We have a staff that can do the project fast and efficiently.
Get a free estimate today!
