Autumn is a favorite time of year for many because the temperatures have cooled off and the colors of the trees are changing. But with the changing colors comes falling leaves, and falling leaves means raking and cleaning gutters!

Leaves fall from the trees and many collect in your gutters. Even if you don’t have a tree in your yard, the wind can carry leaves, seeds and pine needles from neighboring trees and they can end up in your gutters. Failure to clear leaves from your gutters can have a bigger impact than you might think. If left unattended, leaves, sticks and other debris will continue to build up in your gutters and cause serious damage.

When gutters become clogged, water can’t drain or run through clearly. Gutters are designed to allow water to run down to downspouts and drain away from the house and foundation. Water in clogged gutters may spill over and run down the siding on your home, leading to stained or rotted siding. Misdirected water can eventually create cracks in siding and foundation, allowing water to make its way into your home or basement. This can cause significant problems including mold and foundation weakening.

Stagnant water in gutters can attract insects and pests, including mosquitos, creating a hazard for you and your family. Gutters may eventually rust, particularly around screws and joints, and holes will form causing improper draining.

As winter sets in, the water in clogged gutters will freeze. Frozen gutters can eventually pull away from the house due to the weight, damaging the roof and siding of your home. Ice jams or backups due to frozen gutters can cause significant damage to your roof, leading to water damage inside the house.

Regular maintenance of gutters is essential to ensuring they are functioning properly. If your gutters have been damaged and need to be replaced, call the Rooferees today!