Seeds of Destruction: How Debris Threatens Your Gutters

Everyone loves a beautiful yard with green grass and blooming flowers, but one of the last places you’d want plants to grow is in your yard. You may find yourself with a gutter garden if seeds mix with debris and create the conditions for plants to grow and thrive. That’s why it’s so important to have your gutters cleaned regularly.

Why Seeds Are a Problem

On windy days, a lot of dirt and debris can be blown into your gutters. At first, there’s nothing to worry about. But over time, your gutters fill up and become the ideal place for plants to grow. The plants are blown into your gutters, germinate, and sprout.

Vegetation attracts pests such as birds and insects. These pests can be very difficult to get rid of once they have decided to move in. The pests might also build nests that can clog your gutters.

How Seeds Destroy Your Gutters and Your Home

When your gutters are full of debris, seeds, and vegetation, this can prevent water from draining adequately from your gutter. This can lead to your gutters becoming clogged. The water then spills over the sides and causes damage.

The water damages fascia boards as they rot. The excessive weight will cause the gutters to become damaged and sag. It might even separate from your house. If the water doesn’t drain from the roof, the roof and siding can become damaged also. 

The Importance of Gutters

Gutters are important because they channel water away from the foundation. If your gutters are not functioning as they should, they will not be able to keep water from pooling near your foundation, which will cause structural damage and cracks over time.

Fortunately, having your gutters cleaned isn’t difficult. You can try to rinse them down using a garden hose. Or, you can use one of several other techniques such as:

1. Blowing it away with a leaf blower
2. Sucking it up with a vacuum
3. Washing it out with a power washer
4. Removing it by hand with a gutter scoop

Therefore, you might already have the tools necessary to clean your gutters.

Don’t Let Your Gutters Fall Into Disrepair

Regardless of the option you choose, it’s important to keep your gutters clean so you won’t have to replace them. If your gutters are damaged and sagging, make sure to contact a gutter installation service so they can put new gutters in place. They can also install gutter guards that will protect your gutters.