Causes For Gutter Clogs
Getting your gutters cleaned is necessary to maintain their functionality, but you can often prevent clogs from happening by knowing the primary causes. When checking your gutters, you should be on the lookout for these culprits that easily cause clogs to form.
The Pileup Of Leaves And Pinestraw
The most obvious and common culprit is of course leaves. When lots of leaves get packed into your gutters, they can block the flow of water and cause standing water to accumulate in your gutters.
This standing water can cause a lot of problems from deteriorating your home's foundation to causing roof rot. Additionally, the dirty water can leave stains on your house's exterior and discolor it. If your home already suffers from such stains, we can clean them off with a house washing.
Either way, if you see leaves piling up in your gutters, there's a good chance they are at risk for clogs. Make sure to get your gutter cleaning as soon as you can if that's the case.
Roots And Plants Growing
It may be hard to believe, but a lot of dirt can end up in your gutters over time. The weather can blow dirt into your gutters, animals can track dirt, and your shingle grit can settle in the gutters and trap more dirt. When enough dirt accumulates in your gutters, it gives nuts and seeds the chance to sprout and grow.
These growths anchor themselves in your gutters and in turn trap more dirt and debris the more they grow. Even newly sprouted plants can be seen from the ground and are a good sign that your gutters need a pressure washing to be cleaned out. Be sure to promptly clean them as the chance for clogs is high if plants are able to grow in your gutters.
Bird And Rodent Nests
Lots of birds and rodents may find your gutters comfortable and a secure area that's safe from predators. Because of this, they may try to build their nests in your gutters and can even block water flow intentionally for their own purposes.
Nests may be harder to notice if they are built within the gutter, but keeping an eye out will let you know if there is cause for suspicion. If you notice a bird or rodent constantly coming and going to a certain section of your gutter, that may be indicative of a nest. Also, keep an eye on the downspout and gutters during rainfall as the downspouts might not spit out as much water and the gutters may have some overflow.
Lost Balls, Toys, And Other Items
If you have kids in your neighborhood or someone with small drones or flying toys, it's possible they can accidentally get stuck in your gutters. Balls that get lost and abandoned in gutters stay behind without being noticed and can quickly cause blockages as they already block a majority of the gutter. With any luck, your neighbors will inform you of these incidents, but if you notice your gutters overflowing, you shouldn't hesitate to get them checked and have a pressure washing if needed.
