How to you tell if your gutters are clogged?

Written by Sam on March 17, 2024. Posted in Gutters

Here in Shropshire, gutters play a vital role in protecting your home from the elements. They efficiently channel rainwater away from your roof, foundation, and siding, preventing leaks, dampness, and potential structural damage. But like any hardworking system, gutters can become clogged with leaves, debris, and even small critters, hindering their performance.

So, how do you know if your gutters are clogged and need cleaning? Here are some telltale signs to watch out for:

Visible Overflow:

This is the most obvious sign. If you see water overflowing from your gutters during rainfall, it’s a clear indication that they’re blocked and unable to handle the water flow. Pay attention to areas where downspouts connect to the gutters, as overflows often occur at these junctions.

Water Stains and Streaks:

Take a walk around your house after a downpour. Streaks or stains running down your exterior walls, particularly near the eaves (the horizontal overhang of your roof), can indicate clogged gutters. This trapped water is seeping through the fascia boards (the flat boards under the eaves) and staining your walls.

If you notice puddles forming around your house’s foundation after a rain shower, it’s a red flag. Clogged gutters prevent water from flowing away from the house, causing it to pool around the foundation. This can lead to cracks in the foundation, basement flooding, and moisture problems inside your home.

Stagnant water in clogged gutters creates a breeding ground for mosquitoes. If you find yourself swatting away these pesky insects more than usual, especially near your roofline, it might be due to clogged gutters harboring these uninvited guests.

Regularly inspect your gutters for any missing sections, loose brackets, or sagging. Damaged gutters can’t function properly and might overflow or detach altogether during heavy rain. Inspecting Your Gutters:

Now that you know the signs, how do you inspect your gutters for clogs? Here’s a quick guide:

Safety First: Unless you’re comfortable working at heights, it’s always best to hire a professional for gutter cleaning. However, if you’re comfortable on a ladder, make sure it’s secured properly before climbing.

Visual Inspection: Look for visible signs of debris like leaves, twigs, and even small branches. Check for any nesting materials from birds or rodents.

The Hose Test: Gently run a hose down the gutter. Water should flow freely through the downspout. If the water backs up or spills over the sides, you’ve got a clog.

If you discover clogged gutters, it’s time to take action. Here are your options:

DIY Cleaning: If you’re comfortable and have the proper safety equipment, you can clean your gutters yourself. Wear gloves and remove debris with a scoop or trowel. Be cautious while working at heights and never lean too far over the edge.

Professional Cleaning: For a safe and thorough clean, especially for multi-storey homes, hiring a professional gutter cleaning service is highly recommended.