On the surface, overflowing gutters don’t seem like a big deal. But, they can be an indicator of a more serious problem. Sometimes the issue is minor and easily fixed – like a clog. But other times, it may be a result of improper slope or sizing.
The purpose of gutters is to catch rain from your roof and move it away from your home. When your gutters don’t work properly, you risk foundation leaks, mold, and rotting of your fascia boards. This allows moisture to enter your home which can cause serious damage to ceilings and drywall. In preparation for spring showers and summer storms, we’re breaking down the three main reasons homeowners experience overflowing gutters.
Clogs in the Gutter or Downspout
The number one cause of overflowing gutters are clogs. Leaves, twigs, pine needles, cotton, and other debris build up over time and cause dams in your gutters. The blockages trap water and cause it to find another way out – over the edge.
It is important to clean out your gutters at least twice per year to prevent these issues. However, if you live in an area with lots of trees, you may have to clean your gutters more frequently. We suggest cleaning your gutters at the beginning of spring and before winter. You can learn more about how to properly clean your gutters by checking out this blog post. Or, if you’d love to never have to clean your gutters again, you can learn more about gutter guards here.
Incorrect Pitch or Position
If your gutters are still overflowing even after being cleaned out, it is possible they are incorrectly pitched. The pitch of your gutters is essential to their proper function. If your gutter tilts down and away from your home, they are prone to overflowing, especially during heavy rainstorms. On the other hand, if your gutter is not properly sloped toward downspouts, water will gather in one spot and sit. Gutters are generally hung with a slope of .25 to .5 inches per 10 feet, which allows water to flow “downhill” to the downspouts. If they are installed with a slope less than this, water will not be carried away properly, causing overflow.
Too Small
As Nebraskans, we are no strangers to flash flood warnings and summertime downpours. It is important to be sure the gutters on your home are properly sized to handle our weather conditions. If you have inspected your gutters for clogs and incorrect pitching and you still have overflow, it is likely the cause of your issue is improper sizing. Properly sized gutters take into consideration the average rainfall where you live as well as the size and pitch of your roof.
At Royalty, our top priority is to ensure your home is protected. If you notice that your gutters are not keeping up with the rain, don’t wait. Give us a call to schedule a free gutter inspection! Our team will be able to properly diagnose the issue and provide you with cost-effective solutions. If you have any questions, you can drop us a line here!
