What Causes Dirt to Accumulate in Your Gutters?

The job of your gutters is to channel rainwater from your roof at a safe distance from your home. They help maintain the structural integrity of your humble abode and protect your landscaping from erosion. With proactive maintenance, you can keep your gutter system efficient. 

It’s almost inevitable that debris like leaves, dirt, dust and twigs end up in your gutters. Dirt can still accumulate in them, even if your property doesn’t have trees. Learn why it happens from a trusted gutter and retractable awning installation company. 

What Are the Common Sources of Dirt in Gutters? 

Winds

Winds tend to carry dirt, dust and soil. It is not surprising that these particles land in your gutters. If you live near the road or there is ongoing construction in your area, your gutter system will become more prone to dirt accumulation. 

When debris comes into contact with moisture, mud will form. Over time, mud can restrict water flow in your gutters. You must have it immediately removed because it can get heavy once it builds up and cause your gutter system to sag. 

Roof Debris

Asphalt shingles have granules that protect them against UV rays and other outdoor elements. As they age, these sediments can fall and travel to your gutters. Excessive granule loss can compromise the efficiency of your gutter system. Moreover, bald spots on your roof can indicate that it is reaching the end of its life. If this is the case, it’s best to have it checked by experienced professionals. 

Trees and Plants

Gutters near trees and plants are more susceptible to clogs. Leaves, twigs and seeds can fall or get blown off by winds. These organic materials can keep water from flowing and reaching the downspouts. When left unattended, they will eventually cause standing water in your gutters. Stagnant water can attract pests, which could then use gutters as a pathway to your attic. 

Animal Nests

Birds, squirrels, insects and other animals can use neglected gutters as habitat. They can create nests using materials from surrounding trees, like leaves and branches. Their nests, droppings and feathers can contribute to the debris buildup in your gutters. If you see unwanted guests in this part of your home, have them removed immediately. 

Why Is It Important to Keep Your Gutters Clean?

Save Yourself From Foundation Damage

Clogged gutters will cause water to overflow to the sides of your home, which can then cause flooding in your basement. The surrounding soil can expand and push against your foundation due to excessive exposure to moisture. Once the soil dries, the foundation will contract. Constant expansion and contraction can ultimately lead to cracks in the foundation. 

You know you are dealing with foundation damage if your floors become uneven. Cracks in drywall and windows and doors that do not stay closed are common signs of this problem. You can preserve your home’s foundation by regularly maintaining your gutters. At Barry Best Seamless Gutters, we install high-quality gutter protection systems. They can minimize the risk of gutter clogs and can reduce the need for gutter cleaning, saving you on upkeep costs. If you are also looking for attractive retractable awnings, we are more than happy to help. 

Keep Your Roof in Good Shape

Water will not shed from the roof if you have clogged gutters. Prolonged exposure to moisture can increase the risk of leaks. Once water enters your home, more issues can develop, including rot, mold growth and electrical problems. Failure to address leaks promptly will eventually weaken the structure of your roof.

Avoid Issues With Exterior Walls

Your home’s curb appeal can suffer because of inefficient gutters. With clogged gutters, soffits and fascias will get subjected to excess moisture. As a result, mold, mildew and algae will grow on these components and the exterior walls of your house. 

Prevent Infestations in Your Home

Pests can cause significant damage to your home. They can also put the health of your family at risk. Critters will not find your gutters as appealing if these are clean or don’t have materials they can use to create nests. 

What Can You Do to Prevent Dirt Accumulation in Gutters?

Regular Cleaning

Routine cleaning is one way to ensure your gutters function properly. Hire a professional cleaning service at least twice a year, once in spring and another in late fall. You may need to have your gutters tidied more frequently if there are many trees surrounding your property. 

Get Gutter Guards

Gutter guards will make it significantly easier to maintain your gutters. They prevent debris from entering the system, reducing the number of times you need to have it cleaned. With obstructions, water will move more effortlessly through your gutters and downspouts. 

Are you tired of constantly maintaining your gutters? If so, you will benefit from quality gutter guards. Whether you need new awnings or gutter covers, you can depend on Barry Best Seamless Gutters. We install Gutter Helmet® systems, made with lightweight but durable aluminum. They feature a patented nose-forward design, allowing rainwater to flow on gutters seamlessly. Gutter Helmet’s robust construction improves tensile strength, while its ribbed surface encourages surface tension. 

Keep Nearby Trees Trimmed

Another way to reduce the debris in your gutters is to trim trees and plants around your property. Do not allow branches to grow too close to your roof to prevent leaves and twigs from filling your gutters. Regular pruning can improve the health of your trees since it involves getting rid of dead branches. It can also lower the likelihood of property damage, especially during extreme weather events. If you have no experience trimming trees, it is better to hire experts to do the job. They have the appropriate safety gear and equipment to prune greeneries safely and efficiently.