The short answer
Gutters carry rain away from the roof edge, fascia, siding and foundation. Clogged gutters overflow, hold water and feed ice dams. Cleaning them at least in spring and fall is a common rule of thumb, and homes under heavy trees may need it more often. Check them after big storms too.
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What gutters protect
Gutters collect the water that runs off the roof and send it to the downspouts. When they work, that water leaves the area around your house instead of soaking it.
They protect the fascia, the board along the roof edge that the gutter hangs from. They protect siding from splashing and streaking, and they keep water from pooling at the foundation, where it can find its way into a basement or crawl space.
How clogged gutters cause trouble
Leaves, shingle grit and seeds build up and block the flow. Water then spills over the edge or sits in the trough. Standing water soaks the fascia and the roof edge, and wood that stays wet can rot.
In winter, a gutter packed with debris holds meltwater that freezes into solid ice. That ice can feed an ice dam, and its weight can pull the gutter away from the house. Keeping the troughs clear gives meltwater a path to leave.
Signs your gutters need attention
Look for water spilling over the sides during rain, gutters that sag or pull away from the fascia, and seams that drip. Peeling paint or dark water stains on the fascia and siding are other clues.
Check the ground too. Pooling water or eroded soil near the foundation, or mud splashed up the siding, can mean the downspouts are not doing their job. Plants growing in the gutter mean debris has sat there a long time.
Guards, extensions and staying safe
Gutter guards and screens can cut down on cleaning, though none removes it entirely. Downspout extensions move water farther from the foundation. Both are options to talk through with a gutter pro, since the right choice depends on your trees and roof.
Cleaning means working on a ladder, and that is where most injuries happen. Set it on firm, level ground, keep your weight centered and never lean out. Stay away from power lines. If the roof edge is high, steep or icy, call a local pro instead.
Want a local pro to take a look? Request a quote and add a photo. Quotes provided by our network of licensed, insured local contractors to get you top quality at a fair price.
Related service: Gutters in Rochester, MN. Browse the towns we cover or all roofing guides.
