Your gutters are an important part of your roofing system. They benefit your home in many ways, but when they’re not free-flowing your home can susceptible to damage from the roof all the way down to the foundation. Some common problems that can result from clogged gutters are:
- Foundation Issues
Saturated soil exerts a lot of pressure on your home’s foundation and, over time, can cause shifting, cracking, and settling.
- Flooded Basement
Gutters are one of the first things an inspector will check when a homeowner reports water in the basement.
- Water Damage
Other things that can contribute toward the final cost include downspout extensions, downspout hinges, flashing, and tear-off and disposal of existing gutter system.
- Roof Damage
Standing water in gutters can cause shingles and roofing underlayment to deteriorate. It can also penetrate the roof and cause interior water damage to ceilings and walls.
- Soffit & Fascia Rot
Soffits and fascia can receive water damage from both the added weight of standing water in the gutters and directly from water damage.
- Ice
When temperatures drop, clogged gutter problems multiply due to the increased risk of ice buildup and damming.
- Landscape Damage
Overflowing gutters can do a great deal of damage to landscaping including damaging plants and causing erosion.
- Driveway/Sidewalk Damage
Saturated soil can also damage driveways and sidewalks, posing a hazard to both people and vehicles.
- Pest Problems
Standing water in clogged gutters attracts mosquitoes and other insects as well as the pests that feed on them.
Neglecting your gutters can cost you a small fortune. The best way to avoid these problems is to have them cleaned on a regular basis or to install a reliable gutter protection system like Gutter Helmet. Learn more about by contacting Siouxland Gutter Helmet today!