In order for gutters to work correctly, they need to be free from blockages that cause water to get backed up. Leaves are one of the most common causes of clogged gutters. When homeowners have clogged gutters, they often install gutter guards to keep leaves out and allow water to flow freely to the downspouts.
If you don’t have a lot of trees near your house, you may think you don’t need gutter guards. However, gutters can become clogged with other types of debris, and gutter guards can help.
Gutter Guards Can Keep Animals and Insects out of Your Gutters
Insects, birds, and rodents often build nests in gutters. Gutters are sheltered places where animals can find protection from predators. This can be harmful to your home because a nest can block the gutters and cause them to overflow. That water can cause damage to your siding, roof, and foundation, as well as the landscaping in your yard. If mosquitoes are living in stagnant water in your gutters, they can bite people and spread disease.
Gutter Guards Can Keep Shingle Grit out of Your Gutters
Grit from shingles can also clog your gutters. Shingles release grit when a roof is new or when it is old and worn. With a new roof, a lot of asphalt will be loose, which can cause your gutters to fill up with grit. Shingles tend to shed a lot of grit in the first five years after they are installed. They also lose a lot of grit when the shingles are older and worn out.
A small amount of grit will not cause problems, but if it accumulates it can clog your gutters. The problem can become even more serious if the gutters are also clogged with leaves and insect or bird nests.
Gutter Guards Can Keep Your Gutters Clear
The best way to deal with these problems and keep your gutters clean is to install gutter guards. They can keep leaves, animals, insects, and shingle grit out of your gutters so water can flow to the downspouts the way it should. Gutter guards are a smart investment that can make cleaning your gutters easier and protect your home from water damage.
Get an Estimate for Gutter Guards from Aladdin
Aladdin Inc. in Hamden can install gutter guards to keep your gutters working properly. We have been helping Connecticut homeowners with home improvements since 1949. If you are frustrated with animal and insect nests or shingle grit clogging your gutters, consider us.
