Silent Culprits: The Most Common Signs of Blocked Eavestroughs and Gutters
As the seasons change, our homes are put to the test. From heavy snowfalls to torrential downpours, our eavestroughs and gutters work tirelessly to keep our homes safe and dry. However, what happens when they’re not doing their job as originally intended?
When leaves, debris, and other obstructions clog up the works, it can lead to a host of problems that can cause damage, stress, and even costly repairs. Today, we’ll explore the most common signs of blocked eavestroughs and gutters, and what you can do to prevent them from becoming a major headache.
Sign #1: Water Overflow
One of the most obvious and glaring signs of a blocked eavestrough or gutter is water overflow. This happens when leaves, twigs and other debris accumulate in the troughs, which prevents water from flowing in the correct manner, as per the original design. As a result, water can back up and overflow, causing damage to your home’s foundation, walls, and landscaping.
Sign #2: Sagging Gutters
Sagging gutters are another telltale sign of a blockage, and should be dealt with immediately. When water can’t flow properly, it will cause the gutters to sag and pull away from the house, which can lead to further damage such as holes in the roof, walls, and foundation.
Sign #3: Water Stains
Water stains on your walls, ceilings and floors are another common sign of a blocked gutter or eavestrough. This improper flow can cause water to seep into your home, causing damage to your walls, ceilings, and floors.
Sign #4: Ice Dams
Ice dams are a common problem in colder climates, and they’re often a sign of a blocked gutter or eavestrough. When warm air rises and meets the cold roof, it can cause ice to form and melt, creating a dam that prevents water from flowing freely.
Sign #5: Pest Infestations
Pests like mosquitoes, rodents and birds love to make themselves at home in clogged gutters and eavestroughs, and when their debris accumulates, it creates a cozy little habitat for these unwanted critters to thrive. Once again, anything that impedes proper water flow will create issues that you’d otherwise want to avoid.
Sign #6: Leaf Litter
Leaf litter is a common sign of a blocked gutter or eavestrough. When leaves and debris accumulate, they can create a thick layer that impedes water flow. This is especially problematic in the fall season, which is why we always recommend having your gutters cleaned around that time, before winter has a chance to settle in.
What Can You Do?
So, what exactly can you do to prevent these problems from occurring in the first place? Here are a few tips:
• Clean your gutters and eavestroughs regularly to remove leaves, twigs, and other debris.
• Install gutter guards to prevent debris from accumulating.
• Consider hiring the professionals to clean and maintain your gutters and eavestroughs, especially if you’re inexperienced.
• Make sure your downspouts are clear and functioning properly to prevent water from accumulating and causing damage.
CONCLUSION
Blocked eavestroughs and gutters are a common problem that can cause damage, stress, and costly repairs, but by recognizing the signs of a blockage and taking steps to prevent them, you can keep your home safe and dry.
Toronto Window Cleaners recommends cleaning your gutters and eavestroughs at least twice a year, by the pros. We’re always on hand to come out and do the job for you, which will also allow us to assess your gutters and eavestroughs to make sure they’re in proper working order, and won’t cost you later in the future. It’s peace of mind that pays dividends, the whole year round!
