What Clogged Gutters Are Really Doing to Your Home (And Why Warm Weather Makes It Worse)

We get it—gutters aren’t exactly the most glamorous part of your home. But when they’re clogged, especially in the summer, they can cause way more trouble than you might expect. At BC Exteriors, we’ve seen the damage firsthand, and we want to help you stay ahead of it.

So let’s break it down. What really happens when gutters get clogged up?

 

Water Where It Shouldn’t Be

Your gutters are there for one reason—to move water away from your home. When they’re blocked by leaves, twigs, or that mystery gunk that seems to appear out of nowhere, rainwater can’t flow like it’s supposed to. Instead, it spills over the edges, soaking your siding, pooling around your foundation, and even backing up under your shingles.

 

A Summer Vacation Spot for Pests

Standing water in clogged gutters is basically an open invitation for mosquitoes, ants, and even rodents. If you’ve ever wondered why the bugs are bad in your backyard, your gutters might be part of the problem.

 

Foundation Trouble

This one’s big. Water pooling near your foundation can lead to cracks, erosion, and serious structural issues over time. And once that damage starts, it’s not easy—or cheap—to fix.

 

Plants in Places They Don’t Belong

Yep, we’ve all seen it: little plants or weeds growing out of gutters. While it might look a little “green,” it’s a sign that organic debris has been sitting there long enough to become soil. That extra weight? Not good for your gutters, roof, or fascia boards.

 

How to Prevent It

  1. Clean your gutters at least twice a year.
    Spring and fall are must-dos, but if your home is near trees (or if you’ve had stormy weather), summer clean-outs may be necessary too.
  2. Consider gutter guards.
    They won’t eliminate maintenance completely, but they can dramatically cut down on the amount of debris that gets in.
  3. Keep an eye out.
    After a heavy rain, do a quick walk-around. Are your gutters overflowing? Are there signs of water pooling around your foundation? Catching issues early can save you a ton of trouble.

 

Need Help?

We don’t just do roofs here at BC Exteriors—we take care of your whole exterior, gutters included. If you’ve got questions about drainage, damage, or just want someone to take a look, we’re here for you.

After all, protecting your home isn’t just about what’s on top—it’s about how everything works together.

Call us at 248-688-0211 or fill out the form on our homepage today to schedule an inspection or chat with a member of our team.