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Gutters direct rainwater away from your home’s foundation, preventing water damage. Clogged gutters lead to leaks, overflows, and potential structural damage. As heavy debris builds up in gutters, it adds weight, causing gutters to pull away from brackets or even detach completely. Damage to fascia boards, soffits, and exterior walls is the result.
Neglected gutters often need costly repairs. Cleaning your gutters can help prevent all of these problems and more.
Common Tree Types That Contribute to Gutter Debris
Trees that drop seeds, petals, pine cones, and needles into gutters can cause extensive gutter damage. Below are the types of trees that commonly cause damage to residential properties in the United States:
- Maple
- Elm
- Ash
- Cherry Blossom
- Magnolia
- Oak
- Pine
Are you planting a tree? Positioning trees far from your home’s perimeter can help. For existing trees, pruning regularly and trimming overhanging branches can also help prevent damage.
Types of Spring Debris That Clog Gutters
1. Helicopter Seed Pods (Samara Fruit)
Helicopter seed pods are the most common cause of spring gutter clogs. These winged seeds, found on maple, elm, and ash trees, spin through the air and travel long distances. In the gutters, they clump together and block downspouts, leading to backups and overflows.
2. Traditional Seed Pods
Traditional seed pods are dropped from trees such as ash and elm trees. These seed pods fall straight down into the gutters. If left unattended, seed pods can even sprout inside gutters, creating an even bigger problem. Keeping gutters clean can help stop seed pods from sprouting.
3. Pollen
Pollen is highly acidic and can wear down aluminum gutters, leading to rust and corrosion. If gutters are clogged and water sits stagnant, pollen buildup accelerates damage.
4. Early Spring Blossoms
Early spring blossoms are commonly found on cherry trees and other fruit trees. Vibrant blossoms fall in March and April, piling up in gutters in large quantities.
5. Pine Needles and Pine Cones
Pine trees shed needles year-round, but accumulation from these trees is especially problematic in winter and early spring. Large quantities can prevent proper water flow, causing overflow and structural damage.
6. Overhanging Tree Limbs
Limbs and twigs break off during winter storms and strong winds, landing in gutters. Homes with heavy tree coverage need regular monitoring for debris accumulation. Branches that fall on the roof can roll into the gutters and stay there.
Signs that Your Gutters Need Spring Cleaning
Plan to clean your gutters at least once each year. Watch for these signs that your gutters need to be cleaned:
- Slow Water Flow: Water should flow freely from all downspouts during rain. If water trickles or doesn’t flow at all, there’s a blockage.
- Visible Piles of Debris: Inspect your gutters regularly. You can do this from the ground or on a ladder. If you can see leaves, twigs, or seeds sticking out of gutters, they’re already too full to function properly.
- Gutter Overflowing: Water spilling over the sides instead of flowing through the downspouts signals a clog.
- Leaking Seams: Water leaking near downspouts or along gutter seams suggests that debris is backing up the system. Water leaks also suggest that your gutters need to be re-caulked or repaired.
Even if you don’t notice these signs, it’s best to clean your gutters before clogs develop. To maintain your home, schedule a cleaning for the same time each year.
Some homeowners need to clean their gutters twice each year. If you live on a property with many trees, make this a part of your routine. Do you need gutter cleaning services this spring? United Gutter Cleaning offers fast, professional gutter cleaning. Schedule your next gutter cleaning appointment today.
