Gutter debris is a real annoyance, and you should know where you can find it. Leaving leaves and other debris in your gutters can lead to clogs, leaks, and water damage. The best way to avoid such problems is to clean out your gutters on a regular basis.
Leaves are a big part of the problem, especially during storm seasons. If you don't clean them out regularly, they can get stuck on your roof, downspouts, or anywhere else they end up. They can also attract birds, flies, and other pests. You'll also want to keep a close eye on the downspouts, since these are the main points of entry for water.
Other types of debris include wood chunks and twigs. These are heavier and less likely to decompose, making them a prime candidate for a clog. When they are raining, they usually slide down and end up on your roof. But they can also get stuck in your downspout, causing a traffic jam. Also, twigs can lead to the formation of silt, a slimy substance that can block your gutters and cause other problems.
Another common source of debris are pine needles, a natural mulch that grows on a tree's roots. Although they are harmless, they can quickly pile up and form a blockage in your gutters. Aside from clogging up your gutters, they can also lead to a flood in your basement, which can cause serious damage to your electronics and furniture.
Small pieces of shingles are another common source of gutter debris. This is because they tend to be sticky, which makes them stick together when they fall from the roof. As a result, you'll often need to break them up in order to remove them from your gutters. It's a good idea to hire a professional service like Gutter Cleaning Chattanooga TN, to take care of this for you.
In addition to leaves and other organic materials, you might also be greeted by the sight of a flying seed or two. During the spring season, this could be a sign that your gutters have a problem, since the seeds will probably land in your gutter.
Other than a large number of leaves, one of the best ways to prevent a gutter clog is to install a downspout protection system. Some systems are installed directly into your downspout, while others are added to your downspout pipe. Those that are installed on the downspout can be made of plastic or copper.
Other tidbits that can lead to a clog are a bird nest, a helicopter, and a flying seed. These aren't always obvious, though. Birds and squirrels love to build nests in gutters, and they can do so in all kinds of places. You'll want to make sure to call an animal control professional if you find that your gutters are home to a nesting creature. Not only can a nesting animal be bad for your gutters, but they can cause severe damage to your foundation.
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