Clogged Gutters Can Cause These 5 Problems

Ignoring your gutters can lead to expensive home repairs. Here's what clogged gutters really do to your Chicagoland property—and how to prevent it.

Gutters Are Your Home’s Unsung Heroes

Gutters play a critical role in protecting your home from water damage. They channel rainwater off your roof and away from your foundation. But when they get clogged with leaves, twigs, and debris—especially during Chicagoland's fall season—they stop working properly. This can lead to significant damage, costly repairs, and even mold.

Let’s take a closer look at five common problems caused by clogged gutters.

1. Foundation Damage

Every inch of rain on a typical roof sends over 1,000 gallons of water down your gutters. If your gutters are clogged, that water spills over the sides and pools around your home’s foundation. Over time, this can:

• Cause cracks in your foundation
• Lead to uneven settling
• Undermine your home’s structural stability

Water that isn't redirected away properly can erode soil, increase hydrostatic pressure, and cause basement leaks.

2. Gutter and Roof Damage

Clogged gutters get heavy. A single gallon of water weighs more than 8 pounds, and with enough buildup, your gutters can:

• Sag or pull away from the fascia
• Crack or break under pressure
• Damage your roof’s edge or shingles

Winter adds even more risk—clogged gutters contribute to ice dams, which allow melted snow to seep under shingles and into the attic.

3. Water Leaks Inside Your Home

When your gutters overflow, water can seep behind exterior walls and damage insulation, drywall, ceilings, and floors. You may see:

• Peeling paint or wallpaper
• Water stains on walls or ceilings
• Mold and mildew smell indoors

If this moisture isn't properly dried and treated, it can lead to mold infestations and costly structural damage.

4. Flooded Basements

In homes without waterproofing, clogged gutters can lead to basement water intrusion. Overflowing rainwater soaks into the ground around the foundation, often making its way through porous concrete. Signs include:

• Damp or musty-smelling basements
• Water seeping through floor or wall joints
• Mold or mildew growth on walls and stored items

Basement mold remediation is far more expensive than routine gutter cleaning.

5. Pest and Insect Infestations

Clogged gutters trap standing water and organic debris—an ideal breeding ground for:

• Mosquitoes
• Termites
• Ants
• Wasps and bees

These pests can eventually migrate into your attic, eaves, or even interior walls. Maintaining clean gutters reduces these risks significantly.

How to Safely Clean Your Gutters

Before you climb a ladder, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Use a stable extension ladder with locked braces
• Wear gloves, goggles, and long sleeves to avoid bacteria, pests, or cuts
• Use a gutter scoop and bucket to remove debris, then flush with a garden hose
• Check and unclog downspouts to ensure full drainage

Not comfortable with heights or heavy lifting? Hire a professional. It’s safer—and could be cheaper than a fall or hospital visit.

What To Do If Water Damage Has Already Occurred

If your clogged gutters have already led to water damage, don’t wait. At ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons, we provide:

• Professional water extraction and drying
• Mold remediation services
• Basement water cleanup
• Full structural restoration

We serve homeowners across Chicago, the North Shore, and surrounding suburbs. Call us 24/7 at 773-376-1110 or visit our homepage to get started.

FAQs About Clogged Gutters

Q: How often should I clean my gutters?
A: At least twice a year—spring and fall. If you have lots of overhanging trees or experience frequent storms, check more often.

Q: Can clogged gutters cause roof leaks?
A: Yes. Water backing up into the roofline can cause damage to shingles, underlayment, and even your attic insulation.

Q: What are signs of clogged gutters?
A: Overflow during rain, sagging gutters, water stains on siding, or plant growth in your gutters are clear warning signs.

Q: Will insurance cover water damage from clogged gutters?
A: Not usually. Most policies consider this preventable maintenance. Document everything and speak to your insurer, but don’t count on coverage.

Q: Are gutter guards worth the investment?
A: Gutter guards can reduce the frequency of cleanings but still require maintenance. They’re ideal for homes with lots of trees.

About ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons

ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons is a local, IICRC-certified firm with over 40 years of experience serving:

• Chicago: West Loop, Lincoln Park, Rogers Park
• North Shore: Skokie, Wilmette, Evanston, Highland Park
• West Suburbs: Oak Park, River Forest

We specialize in:

• Water damage cleanup
• Mold remediation
• Fire damage restoration

Read our book: RESTORE: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Home As Your Most Valuable Asset by Sam Simon and Nasutsa Mabwa.

Let us restore your peace of mind™.