4 Things That Can Clog Gutters
Without a rain gutter, water would shower down on you from the roof during a rain storm, dousing you as you tried to open the door. Rain and melting snow would also pool around your foundation, leading to unsightly mud puddles and possible leaks in your basement.
You never notice your gutters when they are doing their job, but your home is at risk when these gutters become clogged and unable to perform. Could this issue be avoided? Remember, you cannot fight clogs without first knowing your enemy.
Common Causes of Clogged Gutters, and How to Stop Them
Figuring out your biggest risk factors is the first step in taking action to protect your gutters from clogging.
1. Leaves
By far, the most common clogging culprits are the leaves that fall from neighborhood trees in autumn. To protect your gutters, prune away branches that overhang your house, or consider removing problem trees altogether. Adding a leaf guard to your most susceptible gutters will also help.
2. Weeds
Weeds can grow in the toughest conditions, and sometimes all a seed needs is a bit of moisture to sprout and take root. If you have debris in your gutters, especially decaying leaves, realize that it makes up a recipe for “soil” that weeds love. Keep leaves out of gutters, and check the rain gutter slope for proper drainage to stop weeds in their tracks.
3. Bird’s Nests
Many birds are attracted to your gutters because they use the material in building their nests; some birds may even stick around to call your gutters home. Squirrels and other wildlife may also move in without notice.
You will find it crucial to do regular gutter inspections and clean outs to discourage their destructive behavior. A mesh cover for your gutters can also help discourage animals.
4. Muck and Sludge
When organic material like leaves, guano, and even animal carcasses get stuck in your gutters, it eventually breaks down into a black, slimy mess of rotted material. While this material may be great for your compost pile, it will block your gutters and downspouts, rendering them useless.
The best way to avoid this slime is to keep your gutters free of leaves and animals in the first place. Check your property for these common causes of gutter clogs, and do your best to remove them whenever possible. Once you know what to look for, you will find it much easier to keep your gutters clean and flowing freely.
