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gutter clogged with leaves

Clogged Gutters and Home Damage

Many home issues, including foundation damage and basement leaks, can be caused by clogged gutters. Learn more about what to look out for and who to call for help.

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Have you spotted water trickling down the side of your house or collecting in puddles next to the foundation?  Even though these issues may seem sudden and random, they don’t just appear out of nowhere. Typically, they result from gutters that are blocked with leaves, twigs, or other debris. 

Gutters are a crucial component of your home’s safety and health, but their upkeep and maintenance frequently go overlooked by homeowners. Let’s delve into clogged gutters, what happens to them, what you can do to fix them, and how local pros serving the Moberly area help you safeguard your house. 


What Can Clog Your Gutters

Because your gutters are mounted on the fascia board just below your roof, they can collect more than just rainwater. 

Here are some of the most common items that cause gutters to clog: 

gutters clogged with leaves

Tree Debris

More often than not, nearby trees cause blocked gutters.

It can happen any time of year, but the transition from summer to fall makes it easier for leaves to accumulate in gutters. Twigs and pine needles can also be blown into the gutters by wind and intense storms. 

With enough dirt, debris, and seeds, some plants may even begin to sprout in the gutters. 

squirrels near roof and gutters

Animals and Pests

Birds, squirrels, and pests may be attracted to the gutters of your home, especially if they have easy access to your roof.

They can create nests, run through gutters, and leave waste behind, none of which is safe or healthy for your gutters or home. 

Other Debris

Your gutters also can become clogged with dirt, dust, and even man-made items. 

If your roof has major damage or was improperly constructed, materials like screws, shingles, tar, and caulk might fall into the gutter trough, causing clogs and other problems. 

Avoid leaving poorly thrown balls on your roof, as well, since these items can also damage your gutters.

How Clogged Gutters Can Damage Your Home

Gutters and downspouts work together to divert excess rainfall away from your home’s foundation. This is essential, especially in places like Moberly that experience heavy rain and even frequent flooding. 

If your gutters are clogged and cannot properly collect or drain water, your home can sustain severe harm, such as: 

These issues can, in turn, present health and safety hazards for your family.

If any of these problems look or sound familiar, you may have a clogged gutter system on your hands. As soon as you notice the first sign of an issue, it’s essential to clear your gutters to prevent any further damage.

NO MORE CLOGGED GUTTERS WITH THE AQUAGUARD GUTTER SOLUTION

Schedule Free Inspection
Schedule Free Inspection

Prevent Clogged Gutters with a Complete Solution

Rather than worry about clogged, damaged gutters or getting up on a ladder to clean these essential features, you can benefit from a durable, clog-free solution.

all-in-one gutter solution graphic

Our team at Foundation Recovery Systems provides homeowners in Moberly with the AquaGuard Gutter Solution, a more comprehensive gutter system that helps with water management. Here’s what makes our system unique:

  • All-in-one solution (gutter trough and gutter topper)
  • Liquid adhesion
  • Angled slats allow for more water collection
  • Wide-mouth outlet quickly removes water
  • Removable end cap for easy cleaning

Clogged Gutters

FAQs

If there is a significant blockage of leaves and debris, many homeowners don gloves so they can reach in and pry out handfuls of gunk. 

If you choose to do this, it’s important to take the proper precautions like having a sturdy ladder, someone to hold the ladder, and protective gloves and eyewear. 

Pressure washers, garden hoses, and plumbing augers can also be used, but you need to be careful not to damage the gutters or injure yourself while using them. 

You will notice several problems when your gutters are clogged and cannot effectively collect and drain rainwater. 

These include: 

  • Increased bird and pest presence 
  • Water spilling over your gutters 
  • Puddles of water near your foundation 
  • The gutters sag or pull away from your house 
  • Water does not drain from the downspouts 

Disconnect the downspout where it goes into the ground and use a plumbing auger or garden hose to try to break up the clog. 

However, this can be a messy and ineffective method that also could potentially damage the downspout and underground extension. 

Make Informed Decisions About Dealing with Clogged Gutters

Clogged and otherwise damaged gutters pose a significant threat to your home’s safety. The secret to safeguarding your home against water damage is to keep your gutters clean and in excellent operating condition. 

When you notice frequently pooling water near your home and suspect your gutters are obstructed, it’s important to get in touch with the pros right away. 

Our seasoned team at Foundation Recovery Systems knows exactly what to look for regarding gutter damage and its effects. We’ll thoroughly evaluate your property (including the foundation, gutters, and other areas) to identify any issues and their root causes. 

We’ll also provide you with suggested solutions that are tailor-made to fit your home’s unique repair needs. 

To get started, contact us today to schedule your free inspection and estimate. 

FRS service area

Our Locations

Cedar Rapids

3349 Southgate Ct SW,
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
(319) 220-5034

Central Illinois

14678 E 925 North Rd, Building 5
Bloomington, IL 61705

Des Moines

2401 SE Creekview Dr.
Ankeny, IA 50021
(515) 373-8491

Kansas City

7280 NW 87th Terrace, Suite C-210
Kansas City, MO 64153
(816) 774-1539

Lee's Summit

211 SE State Route 150
Lee's Summit, MO 64082
(816) 774-1539

Moberly

1872 State Hwy M
Moberly, MO 65270
(660) 202-8662

Springfield

3020 N. Martin Ave.
Springfield, MO 65803
(417) 612-8286

St. Louis

1625 Larkin Williams rd.
Fenton, MO 63026
(314) 207-9995