Gutters are an important part of every home – and though they might not be flashy or exciting, the job they do is incredibly vital. That’s why when problems arise, such as blockage, it’s wise to address them promptly. Continue reading to learn more about how gutters can become clogged and how the issue might cause your home to end up with some unwanted guests!
How Can Gutters Become Clogged?
Gutters exist to redirect water flow from your home’s roofing and foundation; water has a way of getting into places it shouldn’t, but clean and maintained gutters will ensure that none enters or damages your home! However, gutters also tend to collect debris as time passes by: tree leaves, twigs and branches, and other types of outdoor litter can find their way into your gutters and become trapped. If this happens often enough and the debris isn’t cleared out, gutters can actually become fully clogged. This isn’t ideal, as it increases the likelihood of damage to your home that can lead to costly repairs.
Insects, Pests, & Other Critters Love Gutters
Additionally, if you allow your gutters to get clogged, you’re inviting different types of wildlife to take up residence in them – and these are not the kinds of roommates you should want! Several types of creatures might set up shop in your gutters, including:
- Bees, wasps, and other stinging insects are attracted to gutters because they love moist environments, not to mention they might find potential prey there.
- Cockroaches are another pest commonly found in all areas of homes, including gutters. They also like moist environments and decaying organic matter, like what’s found in clogged gutters.
- Termites and ants love moisture and wood, and a clogged gutter provides easy access to both. Needless to say, they can find their way through your foundation and into your home.
- Spiders will make a feast out of your clogged gutters, as the prey they hunt for will be attracted to the moisture.
- Birds, rodents, and other small mammals might end up nesting in your clogged gutters, which can lead to them making their way indoors, too.
Preventing Wildlife from Settling in Your Gutters
The easiest way to prevent bugs and other critters from infiltrating your gutters is by ensuring they aren’t clogged or blocked off. This might seem counterintuitive since you’d think blocking things off would help, but properly functioning gutters will actually ensure these visitors stay out. Blockages can create ideal living environments for pests, but proper gutter maintenance and cleaning will help to eliminate standing water, decaying leaves, and the moisture that these guests thrive on.
You should aim to clean your gutters at least twice a year, or more often if you live in an area with heavy rainfall or several trees. This will prevent them from becoming seriously blocked, meaning that they’ll continue to work as intended and they won’t end up housing any unexpected visitors!
About Platinum Gutters
Here at Platinum Gutters, our team has proudly served homeowners all across the DFW metroplex for over 15 years, offering a wide range of gutter installation and maintenance services. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our team to set up a FREE estimate, feel free to visit us online or call us today for assistance.
Tarrant County Telephone: (817) 993-4237.
Dallas/Denton/Collin County Telephone: (972) 346-1590.