If you’ve ever had your gutters become clogged, you know how frustrating it can be. Water can’t flow properly and may even back up, causing damage to your home. To understand what’s causing clogs on your gutters, roof leak repair specialist Renaissance Roofing, Inc. takes a look at some of the most common culprits.
Top Six Culprits That Are Clogging Up Your Gutters
There are a few different types of debris that can clog up your gutters. They can be anything from leaves and twigs to seeds and small stones. They can quickly build up especially if you have trees near your home.
Leaves
Fallen leaves are one of the most common culprits when it comes to clogged gutters. They tend to build up easily if you have trees near your home and branches hanging over your roof.
Seeds
Certain types of seeds (such as those from maple trees) can easily get caught in your gutters and cause blockage.
Twigs
Twigs and small branches can also fall into your gutters, particularly during storms.
Insects
Insects love to build nests in gutters, which can quickly lead to a clog. Wasps, bees, and ants are some of the most common offenders. The clogs can also affect the rest of your roofing system if they aren’t cleaned immediately.
Small Animals
Birds, squirrels, raccoons, and other small animals may also use your gutters as a place to build nests or find food.
How Do I Clear My Gutters if They Become Clogged?
If you notice that your gutters are starting to back up or aren’t draining properly, you’ll need to address the issue as soon as possible. This means you’ll need to remove the debris that’s causing the blockage. This can be done with a garden hose if the blockage is minor, but you may also need to use a plunger or plumbers’ snake for more serious problems. It’s best to call a professional roofer if you don’t have the proper tools or are worried you might make things worse.
How Can I Prevent My Gutters From Clogging?
Prevention is the best way to deal with clogged gutters. Here are some tips on how you can keep your gutters flowing freely all year long:
- Keep an eye on them – Check your gutters regularly (at least once a month) for any debris buildup.
- Clean them out – If you see any debris starting to accumulate in your gutters, clean it out right away before it has a chance to turn into a bigger problem.
- Install gutter guards – Gutter guards help keep leaves and other larger pieces of debris from getting into your gutters in the first place.
Call Renaissance Roofing, Inc. For Reliable Gutter Maintenance
If you live around Salem, Albany, or Eugene, OR and you’re having trouble with clogged gutters, give Renaissance Roofing, Inc. a call! As a trusted name among local roofers, we offer gutter cleaning and repair services to help keep your gutters flowing freely. Contact us today at (541) 791-4886 for a free estimate! You can also reach us online to get started.