When it comes to domestic drainage, the gutters and downpipes are often overlooked. But these play an important role in water management and help to keep your property safe. So what are the common problems caused by blocked gutters?
What are the most common problems caused by blocked gutters?
There are a number of problems that can be caused by blocked domestic gutters. These include:
- Structural damage
- Damage to the gutter
- Flooding and standing water
- Health and safety concerns
Structural damage caused by blocked gutters
One of the biggest problems associated with blocked gutters is the potential for significant Structural damage. Gutters that become blocked with debris such as leaves, twigs, and moss, are unable to divert and carry rain water away from the property. This can result in overflowing water that spills from the gutter and drips down walls and onto windowsills. This can result in significant damage, cracks and chips forming in the walls and brickwork, and the water can even seep into the foundation.
In addition, the roof itself can suffer structural damage as the rain water will not be carried away from the roof, leading to water damage here. In fact many roof leaks are caused by blocked guttering.
Blocked gutters can become damaged over time
As well as damage to the rest to the surrounding walls and the roof blocked gutters can also become damaged themselves. This is because the added weight of the debris and water in the guttering can cause sagging. Eventually this will pull the pipe away from the fascia and your guttering will need to be replaced.
Flooding and standing water
Guttering plays an important role in water management but gutters that are blocked cannot successfully carry water away from the property. This means that standing water and even flooding can be an issue. Firstly, without effective guttering, water will pool around the base of the property. In heavy rain and prolonged wet weather this can cause surface flooding, or even make flooding worse, which can lead to significant property damage. Secondly, without the water being carried away from the roof successfully, standing water or ponding can form on flat roof surfaces. This can lead to roof damage and leaks as well as pests.
Blocked gutters are a health and safety concern
Finally blocked gutters are a health and safety concern for a number of reasons, including:
- Harbouring stagnant water- stagnant water is home to all kinds of bacteria and microorganisms that can be dangerous for humans and pets.
- Pests and insects- blocked gutters can provide the perfect breeding ground for pets and insects, especially in the warmer months. These can even damage your property or woodwork further, as well as causing a significant nuisance in the home.
- Falling- because of the increased gutter weight blocked gutters can actually fall off, which could result in serious injury to anyone in the household.
Professional gutter clearing
Here at KAM we provide professional gutter cleaning services that you can rely on. Why not get in touch today to find out more?