Clogged Gutters Caused Water Damage to My Home

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Different Types of Damage Clogged Gutters Create

As winter turns into spring there are several home improvement chores that collect on your list. One of the most important is cleaning out your gutters. Staying on top of gutter cleanings helps you to avoid potential problems that can be created if your gutters become clogged. Examples of home damage due to clogged gutters range from roof leaks to foundation damage. To help you understand the importance of staying on top of your gutters, SERVPRO® of Columbia County has compromised a list of types of water damage caused by clogged gutters.

1. Roof Leaks: When water backs up in your gutters, the edging of the roof’s surface and sheeting can become damaged- causing rotting. If you see a stain on your ceiling it is usually because there is a leak in your roof somewhere. If this happens you need to investigate where the damage is to your roof and replace the damaged shingles, or even potentially the whole roof. More than the work water damage creates, if the water has been left unattended to, mold can begin to grow and spread. Leaving you with an additional host of problems to get rid of.
2. Gutter Damage: If your gutter becomes clogged with debris and water, it becomes very heavy. If this happens, your gutters may begin to detach entirely from the side of your home. This creates gaps in your gutter system.
3. Foundation Damage: Clogged gutters may cause overflowing water to collect around the ground beneath it. The large puddles of water can seep through cracks and pores in concrete and begin to deteriorate the foundation of the home. If this goes untreated for a long amount of time structural damage may occur, which can cause your house to shift under its own weight.
4. Damage To Siding and Paneling: When water spills over the gutters the water will seep down into the window frames and siding. This causes the wood there to rot and weaken, resulting in your siding and wood framing needing to be replaced.

Gutter Maintenance and Repair Tips

Average cost of replacement gutter installation can be between $800-$1,000. However, with proper gutter maintenance you can avoid unnecessary cost. Keeping your gutters clean and in good condition should be at the top of your home maintenance list. The best tip for gutter maintenance is to make sure you are inspecting and cleaning them at least twice a year. Well-kept gutters also ensure that your home remains safe during heavy storms and rainfall, as well as help to prevent problems such as unwanted pests and mold. Here are a few tips on how to properly maintain your gutter health, and tools you may need while doing so:

• Make sure you have all necessary equipment before beginning a gutter clean out. This includes thick work gloves, non-slip shoes and safety goggles.
• You will need a tall ladder to reach the gutters. Be sure that you place the ladder on an even surface to prevent rocking or tilting, and always have someone manning the ladder at the bottom to ensure it stay in place.
• With gloved hands use a plastic shovel to remove any debris from the gutter. It is helpful to have a bucket at the bottom of the ladder that you can drop waste into. Follow up with a garden hose with an attached spray nozzle to clean out any remaining trash.
• Be sure to inspect your gutters after cleaning them. This means checking for signs of rust or leaking.

Water Damage To Your Home After Gutter Damage Build Up? Give us a call at 706-868-5441 to schedule a consultation today. SERVPRO of Columbia County is always Here To Help®