5 Major Issues Caused by Clogged or Damaged Gutters

Clogged gutters might seem like the least of your worries, but they can cause a huge amount of trouble if you don’t pay attention.

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Cleaning gutters may not be enjoyable, but it’s essential for several reasons, from preventing pest infestations to protecting your foundation. Remember, your gutters are crucial in keeping water from flooding your home’s perimeter during heavy rain.

5 Major Problems Caused by Clogged Gutters

The five most signifiant problems caused by clogged gutters include:

1. Sinking or Cracked Foundations

One of the most insidious and dangerous repercussions of blocked gutters and excessive standing water around your home is foundational damage. Settlement and sinking are the most common issues, but excess hydrostatic pressure and frost heave can also be pressing issues depending on the season. Once your foundations are damaged, water will begin to seep up into your basement.

2. Broken Gutters or Downspouts

If the weight of blockages and standing water, or even ice if the winter is harsh (as they can be in Baltimore), becomes too much, your gutters can begin to bend, buckle, or even pull away from your home. After all, a gallon of water weighs around eight pounds.

3. Wall and Ceiling Damage

When your gutters are clogged, water will begin to back up on your roof, especially in winter when the water and debris in your gutters can freeze. Trapped water can seep under the shingles on your roof when ice dams form or rot the fascia boards your gutters are mounted on. The result in either case is water entering your home from above. This can be subtle at first, but in the most severe cases, it can lead to the collapse of your roof or ceiling.

4. Insect Infestation

Blocked or clogged gutters can provide the perfect nesting sites and breeding grounds for many pests, including wasps and mosquitos. The damp leaves and mulch that are often found in gutters are perfect nesting material, and stagnant standing water is notoriously welcoming for mosquito larvae. Once these critters make a home in your gutters, you will have a hard time shifting them safely without professional help.

5. Flooded or Damp Basements and Crawl Spaces

When you have blocked, gutters and downspouts, water will begin to overspill and pool by the perimeter of your home. This could mean flooding in your window wells, or in the worst case, inside your basement, depending on the health of your walls and foundations. If you have uncovered crawl space vents, you will definitely experience crawl space flooding.

As you can see, there are quite a few reasons you should bite the bullet and get the ladder out. Some of these problems are very expensive to fix, but thankfully they are easy to avoid; all you have to do is clean out your gutters.

Cleaning Your Gutters – What You Need to Know

The most important thing to do when cleaning gutters is to have basic safety precautions in place. Wear gloves, safety goggles, and long sleeves to protect against cuts and bacteria. You should also ensure that your ladder is placed on flat, solid ground and that there is someone else nearby in case of emergency. Secondly, you should have the proper tools on hand. To properly clean out your gutters, you will need a scooping tool, a bucket or trash bag for debris, and your garden hose to flush the systems.

Above and beyond all this, however, you should be mindful of your capabilities. If the job is too big for you or you find, for example, a wasp nest, it may be best to call in professionals. While it may seem unnecessary to have professional help for such a simple task, it is far better to pay a small fee to have your gutters cleaned quickly, safely, and efficiently than it is to risk your health by trying to save money.

If you are looking for a cost-effective gutter cleaning service, please contact JES Foundation Repair today. We offer free inspections and have years of experience. Not only will we ensure your gutters are clean and clear, but we will also be able to spot warning signs on your roof before any small issues escalate.

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Basement Waterproofing FAQ

How Long Does Basement Waterproofing Last?

As mentioned, some waterproofing solutions are temporary, whereas others can last longer if they’re more comprehensive. The type of waterproofing that involves interior drainage installed by a reliable contractor is a more permanent solution. Comparatively, sealant waterproofing lasts between one and two years, depending on the type of sealant you used.

Can exterior landscaping impact the moisture levels in my basement?

Yes, the way your landscape is designed can impact your basement’s moisture levels. Improper grading or drainage can lead to water pooling around your foundation, increasing the risk of water seeping into your basement. Ensuring that your yard slopes away from your foundation and that downspouts direct water well away from your home can help mitigate this risk. If you suspect landscape-related moisture issues, JES Foundation Repair can provide guidance and solutions.

Are there specific times of the year when basements are more prone to water issues?

Basements can be susceptible to water intrusion during any season. However, periods of heavy rain or melting snow, such as in spring or after severe weather events, can heighten the risk. It’s also worth monitoring during prolonged rainy periods or rapid snowmelt.

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