4 Most Common Culprits Behind Clogged Gutters

Clogged gutters can cause problems for your roof and foundations. Fortunately, this issue is preventable, especially when you know what’s causing it. American Roofing & Construction, LLC discusses the most common causes of clogged gutters.

1. Leaves and needles. If you or your neighbors have trees, then you’ve probably found yourself having to scoop out leaves from the gutters every once in a while. Needles from pine trees are even worse because they can get into tight crevices including gutter seams and between roofing shingles. In addition to regularly cleaning your gutters, we also recommend trimming the tree branches closest to the rooftop. Consider investing in a gutter protection system as well to help prevent leaves, pine needles and other debris from getting into the gutters.

2. Weeds. Weeds are incredibly resilient and can grow just about anywhere. Most types of weeds with airborne seeds can thrive with a small amount of moisture and organic matter — which can be provided by gutters. Weeds often grow unseen, which makes regular gutter maintenance all the more important.

3. Bird nests. Gutters provide a perfect environment for birds to build a nest. In them, birds are hidden from predators, have a durable outer enclosure and a little bit of warmth emanating from the house. This is why if you have open gutters, you have a good chance of finding at least one bird nest. Other wildlife, such as squirrels, may also claim your gutters as their home. If you need help with removing a family of birds, organizations like the Alabama Wildlife Center may be able to help.

4. Muck and sludge. Organic material like leaves, animal droppings and even animal carcasses, if left in the gutters long enough, can turn into a black slimy sludge. Some of it may eventually get washed away by the rain, but sludge is often dense enough that it can block gutters. As with the other problems described above, regular gutter cleaning can help prevent problems from forming in the first place.

American Roofing & Construction, LLC is your leading provider of roofing and gutter services. Give us a call at (251) 379-9712 or (205) 223-2469. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.