3 Causes of a Clogged Gutter and How to Fix it
If you have ever experienced a clogged gutter, you know the frustration that comes with it. A clogged gutter can cause all sorts of problems, including water damage to your home, landscaping, and foundation. Not to mention, it can be a real pain to clean out. Luckily, there are some things you can do to prevent your gutters from clogging in the first place.
1. Leaves and Debris
One of the main causes of a clogged gutter is leaves and debris. When leaves fall from the trees, they can land in the gutters and start to clog them up. Over time, more and more leaves and debris can accumulate, causing the gutters to become completely blocked. In addition, the leaves can decompose and cause a nasty smell.
To fix this problem, you will need to regularly remove the leaves and debris from the gutters. This can be done using a garden hose, a pressure washer, by hand, or even a leaf blower. You will need gloves, eyewear, and long sleeves for protection against bacteria, cuts, and pests. A scooping tool and bucket can help you clean out and dispose of debris. Another way to fix a clogged gutter is to install a gutter guard. This is a device that goes over the top of the gutter and prevents leaves, twigs, and other debris from getting into the gutter in the first place. If the gutters are difficult to reach, you may need to use a ladder.
2. Animal Nesting
Another common cause of clogged gutters is animal nesting. If you have an animal that is nesting in your gutter, it is likely that there will be some clogging. This is because the animal will bring in materials to build its nest, which can then block the flow of water through the gutter. In addition, the animals themselves can be a problem. They may die in the nest, which can attract other animals looking for a meal. This can create an infestation that is difficult to control.
To fix this problem, you will need to remove the nests from the gutters. This can be done by hand or with a garden hose. If the animals are still living in the nests, you may need to call a pest control company to remove them.
3. Sagging Gutters
A third common cause of clogged gutters is sagging. As gutters age, they can start to sag. This is usually due to a build-up of debris or snow and ice during the winter season in the gutters, which puts extra weight on them and causes them to pull away from the house. This sag can cause a backflow of water, which can lead to overflows and leaks.
To fix this problem, you will need to make sure that the gutters are properly secured to the house. You may also need to add additional supports to the gutters to help prevent them from sagging.
