How to Tell if Your Gutters Are Clogged and How to Fix Them

Gutters are an essential part of your home’s drainage system, directing rainwater away from your roof and foundation. But when they become clogged with leaves, debris, or dirt, they can’t do their job properly—leading to water damage, mold growth, and even foundation problems.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to spot the signs of clogged gutters, how to safely clear them, and how to keep them clean year-round.

✅ How to Tell if Your Gutters Are Clogged

🚨 1. Overflowing Water During Rain

  • If you notice water pouring over the edges of your gutters during a rainstorm, this is a clear sign that your gutters are clogged.

  • Water should flow smoothly through the downspouts—not over the sides.

💡 Watch your gutters during a rainy day to see how they perform.

🚨 2. Water Stains on Exterior Walls

  • Dirty streaks or stains on your walls, just below the gutters, indicate that water is overflowing.

  • These stains are caused by water carrying dirt and debris down the wall.

💡 Check your exterior walls for dark streaks or water stains.

🚨 3. Sagging or Bulging Gutters

  • If your gutters are sagging, bulging, or pulling away from the roof, they may be full of heavy, wet debris.

  • Excess weight can damage the gutter brackets and cause them to detach.

💡 Inspect your gutters for signs of bending or pulling away.

🚨 4. Plant Growth in Gutters

  • If you see plants, weeds, or moss growing out of your gutters, this is a sure sign they are clogged.

  • Seeds carried by the wind can settle in the debris and start growing.

💡 Gutters should be clear of any vegetation.

🚨 5. Pooled Water Around Your Foundation

  • If you notice water pooling near the base of your home, your gutters may not be directing water away properly.

  • This can lead to foundation damage and basement leaks.

💡 Check the ground around your home after a rainstorm.

🚨 6. Birds or Pests Around Gutters

  • If birds are frequently visiting your gutters, they may be nesting in the debris.

  • Squirrels, insects, and even rodents may use clogged gutters as a habitat.

💡 Keep an eye out for animal activity around your gutters.

🚨 7. Water Damage or Mold in Your Attic

  • If water is overflowing and leaking back into your roof, you may notice water stains or mold in your attic.

  • This is a sign that water is seeping under the roof edge.

💡 Inspect your attic for damp spots, mold, or musty smells.

✅ How to Safely Fix Clogged Gutters

If you notice any of the above signs, it’s time to clean your gutters. Here’s how to do it safely:

✅ Step 1: Gather Your Tools

  • Sturdy ladder (extendable for two-story homes)

  • Gloves (to protect your hands)

  • Gutter scoop or small garden trowel

  • Bucket or garbage bag (for debris)

  • Garden hose with spray attachment

  • Safety goggles (to protect your eyes)

💡 Consider using a gutter cleaning tool with an extendable pole for easy access.

✅ Step 2: Set Up Your Ladder Safely

  • Ensure your ladder is on a stable, flat surface.

  • Use a ladder stabilizer for extra safety (especially on two-story homes).

  • Have someone hold the ladder if possible.

💡 Never lean too far to the side—climb down and move the ladder instead.

✅ Step 3: Remove Debris by Hand

  • Use a gutter scoop or your gloved hands to remove leaves, twigs, and debris.

  • Place the debris in a bucket or garbage bag for easy disposal.

💡 Start at the downspout and work your way along the gutter.

✅ Step 4: Flush the Gutters with Water

  • Use a garden hose to flush the gutters, starting at the end opposite the downspout.

  • Ensure water flows freely through the downspout.

  • If the downspout is clogged, use the hose to try and clear it.

💡 If water doesn’t flow through the downspout, you may need to disconnect and clear it.

✅ Step 5: Check Downspouts for Blockages

  • If water is not coming out of the downspout, use a plumbing snake or pressure attachment on your hose to clear it.

  • Reattach the downspout securely.

💡 Make sure the downspout is directing water away from your foundation.

✅ Step 6: Inspect for Damage

  • While cleaning, check for any signs of damage to your gutters, such as:

    • Cracks or holes

    • Loose or broken brackets

    • Rust or corrosion

💡 Repair or replace damaged sections to ensure your gutters function properly.

✅ How to Prevent Clogged Gutters

Preventing clogged gutters is easier and cheaper than cleaning them frequently. Here are some simple ways to keep them clear:

✅ 1. Install Gutter Guards

  • Mesh or perforated gutter guards prevent leaves and debris from entering the gutters.

  • Gutter guards are easy to install and require minimal maintenance.

✅ 2. Trim Overhanging Trees

  • Regularly trim tree branches that hang over your roof and gutters.

  • This reduces the amount of leaves falling into your gutters.

✅ 3. Clean Your Gutters Regularly

  • Clean gutters at least twice a year (spring and autumn).

  • More frequent cleaning may be needed if you have many trees nearby.

✅ 4. Schedule Professional Gutter Cleaning

  • For tall homes, large properties, or if you don’t want to climb a ladder, hire a professional gutter cleaning service.

  • Professionals can also inspect your gutters for damage.

✅ When to Call a Professional for Gutter Cleaning

Call a professional gutter cleaning service if:

  • Your home is multi-story, and you don’t have the right equipment.

  • You notice severe clogs, such as standing water in the gutters.

  • Your gutters are damaged and need repair.

  • You want to install gutter guards.

✅ Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore Your Gutters

Clogged gutters can lead to expensive problems like water damage, foundation cracks, and mold growth. By recognizing the early signs of clogged gutters, cleaning them regularly, and taking preventive measures, you can protect your home and save money.

🌧️ Need help creating a gutter maintenance checklist for your clients? Let me know—I can help you design a simple, printable guide.