3 Gutter Damage Risks and Expert Advice For Prevention

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO if you have gutter damage!

Watch out: gutter damage can lead to water infiltrating your home!

Gutters are an essential part of any home, as they help direct water away from the foundation and protect the roof. However, gutter damage can be a significant problem, leading to water infiltration and roof damage.

Most people clean their gutters out once a year but don't think about what happens if they suffer gutter damage from a powerful storm.

This article will discuss some of the most common causes of gutter damage and what can occur if you don't take care of your gutters.

Common causes of gutter damage

Homeowners should know a few common causes of gutter damage, so worse damage doesn't occur.

One of the most common causes of gutter damage is a storm. A severe storm can cause wind and rain to damage the gutter system, leading to leaks and roof damage. If there's hail, that can also cause significant gutter damage.

Another common cause of gutter damage is snow. It can refreeze and form an ice dam on the gutter when the snow melts. This can cause the gutter to become blocked and eventually collapse.

If you have trees near your home, leaves and branches can also fall into the gutters and block them. Over time, this can lead to rust and damage to the gutter system.

Finally, gutter damage can also be caused by animals. Birds, squirrels, and other animals can nest in gutters and cause damage. If you suspect that an animal is in your gutter, it's essential to call a professional to remove it.

What can happen if you have gutter damage?

If gutters aren't functioning correctly, water can leak into the home and cause severe damage to the walls, ceilings, floors, and personal belongings. You’ll need a water damage restoration professional if this happens.

In extreme cases, water damage can lead to mold growth, which requires expert remediation.

Another problem that can occur due to gutter damage is roof damage. Water can leak onto the roof when gutters are damaged and cause severe damage. Over time, this can lead to leaks, rot, and even sunken spots.

Lastly, gutter damage can also lead to foundation damage. When water leaks into the home, it can seep into the foundation and cause cracks. This can weaken the foundation and lead to severe problems down the road.

Preventing gutter damage

There are a few things homeowners can do to prevent gutter damage. First, it's essential to clean the gutters and remove any accumulated debris regularly. This will help ensure that water can flow freely through the system.

It's also a good idea to inspect the gutters regularly and look for any signs of damage. If you notice any damage, it's essential to have it repaired as soon as possible.

Finally, if you live in an area prone to severe weather, it's a good idea to have your gutters reinforced. This will help them withstand the high winds and heavy rains associated with storms.

Recovering from water damage with SERVPRO of North Bethesda

Gutter damage can be a significant problem, leading to water infiltration and even roof damage. This article discussed some of the most common causes of gutter damage and what can occur if you don't take care of your gutters.

If your home suffers water damage resulting from gutter damage, we are here to help! Our trained staff at SERVPRO of North Bethesda has the experience and knowledge necessary to quickly and safely remove the water and dry the area. 

Once the water is removed, we will ensure that the room is dry and work to repair any damage. We understand the importance of your home and will work quickly and efficiently to get your life back to normal. Our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened."

Give us a call today if you need help or have any questions!