Many people do not keep their gutters adequately clean. Sometimes this neglect comes from a forgetful owner, but often the consequences that result from improper gutter maintenance are simply not taken seriously. This is a costly mistake to make both in monetary terms and in the potential for serious injury.
Gutters are a part of almost every building and for a very good reason: Water must be directed away from the foundation. When debris such as tree leaves, pine needles, sticks and dust clog up the gutters, water then has nowhere to go. Any water that is not able to spill over the sides of the gutter begins to collect against the roof and rot will quickly set in. When this happens, the possibility exists that major repairs will then be required.
Rain water that spills over the gutter can not only cause soil erosion where it hits the ground, but it also can create a persistent accumulation of water that can seep into the ground and collect against the foundation of the building. This can put additional stress on concrete walls, creating cracks and causing basements to leak and become damp. In addition to simply causing the area to smell bad, this dampness can cause an infestation of mold. Many serious health complications may then result, such as asthma and allergies. Mold is very difficult to rid from a building and may quickly become so pervasive that staying in the structure is impossible.
Finally, when gutters are not cleaned, the debris acts as a perfect place for seeds to sprout. As these weeds and trees grow and multiply, their additional weight can cause the gutters to collapse.
Gutter cleaning is more than a responsibility: It is a critical part of properly maintaining any structure and is of vital importance.