Most homeowners see gutter guards just as a convenience item that is meant to eliminate the need to use a ladder to remove moss and rotting leaves. This is definitely not the cause. According to a top Denver gutter repair company, a clogged gutter can cause really serious damage to the home and is a danger that few know about. In order to better understand the subject, here are the main dangers associated with clogged gutters you have to be aware of.
Foundation Damage
Having clear gutters guarantees the fact that snow melting away and rain water will not reach the foundation. If clogged gutter damage appears, your basement can flood and you will end up faced with highly expensive damage that has to be taken care of. Chronic basement flooding or simply water present in the foundation will cause cracks. This can shift the house’s structure. It can quickly become dangerous to live in your home.
Roof Damage
The roof can also suffer because you have gutters that are not fully-functional. Water that is improperly diverted can end up pooled in many places, leading to leaks reaching house fascia and frame, together with the roof, of course. Due to the presence of water, root rot, mildew and mold can become present. This is dangerous for all people living inside the home as it can cause numerous health problems.
Driveway And Sidewalk Shifts And Cracks
Another really big danger of poor drainage and clogged gutters is having water get under and onto driveways and sidewalks. Similarly to the foundation, asphalt and concrete present in the walkways and driveways will lead to the appearance of cracks. Shifting and damage appear, leading to numerous potentially expensive repairs.
Landscape Erosion And Gutter Damage
As the gutters back up, water ends up splashing in areas where water should not be present. This potentially washes away mulch, destroys plants due to overwatering and can attract numerous unwanted pests. If you also have cracked driveways and sidewalks, extra repair work piles up. Everything becomes more expensive and the curb appeal of the property is instantly diminished. You will surely have problems selling the home in the future.
A Clogged Gutter Can Hurt You
It is definitely a drag to climb up a ladder and clean the gutters but this process in itself can also be really dangerous. When you climb the ladder and there is nobody present that can spot you, everything is dangerous. You can so easily fall off the ladder. It is even possible that you inadvertently dig hands in wasp nests. You surely do not want to go to the hospital.
It is always recommended that you talk to professionals as clogged drains have to be cleaned. If you do not have the appropriate equipment, it is a certainty that problems appear. Gutter guards are also very important so that your gutters can stop water from reaching the foundation and your home. In fact, having gutters installed can easily help you avoid using a ladder in the future.