Signs Your Gutters Need Cleaning Before They Overflow

Gutters usually give some warning before they actually overflow — here's what to watch for.

Visible Warning Signs

• Plants or moss growing in the gutter — a sure sign of trapped debris and moisture sitting for a while.
• Sagging sections — often caused by the weight of waterlogged debris pulling gutters away from the fascia.
• Water marks on siding below the gutter line — a sign of previous overflow, even if you didn't see it happen.
• Birds or pests nesting in the gutter — usually means it's been undisturbed and full for a while.

What Happens If You Ignore These Signs

Continued overflow can damage siding, stain your foundation, and in winter contribute to ice dams that damage your roofline.

What to Do

If you're seeing any of these signs, it's worth booking a cleaning before the next significant rain or snowmelt, not after.