People don’t think about cleaning their gutters when everything is operating smoothly. They only think about it when things are going awry. That is not the attitude to have. It’s crucial to clean your gutters routinely. Compare your assessment to ours to see if you should be concerned.
Animal Infestation
Pests and rodents thrive on existing debris in your gutter system. That is a breeding ground for nesting and storing food. If you spot a nest inside, contact a professional immediately. The animals will tear your gutters apart and may attack homeowners and professionals. The ones most likely to do this are the flying and tree-climbing types, like insects, mice, snakes, birds, and squirrels.
Overflowing Waterfall
Gutters lead the water from the roof to the ground. When they’re filled with debris, the clog blocks water from leaving. Therefore, the water is going another way. Water will spill out from the sides like an overflowing waterfall. When water goes in that direction, it causes cracks in the home’s structure, with the basement and foundation being the first parts affected. Additionally, water spilling out of control will cause roof leaks, mold and mildew growth, fascia board deterioration, and gutter damage.
In the winter, standing water puddles from gutters will freeze, leading to a slippery area that can cause injury to anyone who steps on it. Wet siding that freezes over is also a hazard.
Mold and Mildew Growth
A foul-smelling odor and dark stains are the first signs of bacterial growth. Wet debris and wet siding are havens for mold and mildew. They appear because the gutter had an overflowing waterfall of rainwater on the side, and the moisture did not dry. Mold and mildew trigger allergies and breathing problems. They also cause damage to the roofing, gutters, and home structure.
Noticeable Roof Leaks
Something else causing roofing, gutter, and structural damage is leaks. The same clogs causing an overflowing downpour of water will also cause the roof to leak. A leaky roof occurs when blocked water has nowhere to go, and if it can’t drain on the side, it will drain by entering underneath the shingles and asphalt. At that point, you will need your gutters cleaned and your roof repaired.
Unstable Gutter System
The gutter system is not a storage area for animal nests, tree debris, autumn leaves, shingle granules, plant growth, or rainwater. The weight will destroy it. It starts by bending and bulging, and it ends with a broken or cracked system that needs replacement. A home with a detached gutter leaves the areas under the roof vulnerable to leaks and structural damage.
Autumn is a great time to hire a professional to clean your gutters. A good power washing will remove obstructions inside and clean up the stains and dirt on the outside. Your gutters will look clean and fresh, and they will function properly. Contact our experts at Turbo Power Washing for your next residential gutter cleaning in Sterling Heights, MI.
