Gutter Clogs and How to Effectively Address Them

Dealing with clogged gutters can often be tedious and messy. But as much as you dread the task, it should still be done regularly to avoid water pooling and causing damage to your roof. If you don’t have time to clean your gutters, you can always consider letting the professionals handle the job for you. They’ll have the proper equipment to do this while inspecting your gutters thoroughly for any signs of damage and deterioration.

It also helps to be aware of the different causes of gutter clogs. This helps you figure out what to do should this happen to your gutters. Homecraft® Inc. has put together some of the most common ones below:

Ice Dam Problems

The warmth on your roof’s decking or sheathing causes any snow buildup to melt. As that melted snow runs down to the roof’s edge, it refreezes, because that part of the roof is colder. This continues until a noticeable “dam” of ice forms along your gutters. The resulting ice dam can pose a problem to your roof and your home in the form of leaks, which can lead to mold growth and wood rot. Proper roof insulation and ventilation are vital to minimizing ice dam issues during the winter season.

Overhanging Branches

Trees lining the landscape add a nice feel to your residential property. However, if their branches are too close or hang over your roof, they may cause gutter clogs. Make sure to trim any overhanging branches to prevent leaves and twigs from falling onto your roof. You should also consider installing gutter guards so that you won’t need to clear out the accumulated debris all the time.

Muck and Sludge

These slimy black materials are typically made from broken-down branches and leaves. They can also consist of animal carcasses that fell into the downspouts and got stuck. If not adequately addressed, they can cause clogs in the system and affect the water runoff. They can even lead to rotting damage to your roof’s edges. You can choose to clean them off and dispose of them properly, and because they’re essentially organic matter, they can also be used as compost for your garden.

Homecraft® Inc. has you covered when it comes to quality gutter repair and replacement services. To get started, just call us at (302) 798-0302. You can also fill out our convenient contact form to get a free estimate. We serve Newark, Middletown, Bear and surrounding areas in Delaware.