7 Signs of Clogged Gutters (and What to Do)
Clogged gutters rarely announce themselves until it rains. These seven signs help you spot a problem early, before water damages your roof, walls or foundation.
1. Water spills over the edge in rain
The clearest sign. If water pours over the front of the gutter instead of down the downspout, something is blocking it.
2. Gutter overflowing at the corner
Corners collect the most debris because two runs of water meet there. Overflow at a corner often means a clog at the corner or in the nearest downspout. On very large roofs it can also mean the gutter is too small for the water.
3. Plants or moss growing in the gutter
Seedlings and moss need soil, so if they grow in your gutters, there is a thick layer of rotting debris holding water.
4. Sagging or pulling away
Wet debris is heavy. A gutter that sags or pulls away from the fascia is carrying too much weight - clean it and check the hangers.
5. Stains or peeling paint on the walls
Water stripes on siding, or peeling paint under the gutter, show where water has been running down the wall instead of through the gutter.
6. Pools or washed-out soil by the foundation
Puddles, holes or bare soil right next to the house can mean water is falling straight from the roof. Over time this can lead to damp basements.
7. Ice dams in winter
Ridges of ice along the roof edge can form when snow melts and refreezes at the eaves. Clogged gutters make ice build-up worse. Never chip at ice from a ladder - call a pro.
What to do next
Clean the gutters (step-by-step guide), then test the downspouts with a hose. If a downspout is blocked, follow how to unclog a downspout. For tall homes, get a few quotes.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my downspout is clogged?
Run a hose into the gutter near the downspout. If water backs up in the gutter or only trickles out of the bottom, the downspout is blocked.
Why is my gutter overflowing at the corner?
Usually a clog at the corner or in the nearest downspout. If the gutter is clean and still overflows in heavy rain, it may be too small or need an extra downspout.
Can clogged gutters damage my roof?
They can. Water that backs up can soak the roof edge and the wooden fascia behind the gutter, and add to ice build-up in winter.
Can clogged gutters cause a leaky basement?
They can add to it. Overflowing water falls next to the foundation, and soaked soil there is a common cause of damp basements.