7 Signs Your Gutters Need Cleaning

Your home’s gutters are like its unsung heroes — quietly protecting your roof, siding, and foundation by carrying water away. But when they’re clogged or neglected, the damage can be anything but quiet. Overflowing gutters can lead to foundation cracks, roof leaks, pest infestations, and costly repairs.

The good news? Your home usually sends warning signals before serious problems start. Here are seven signs your gutter needs cleaning — and what you can do to stay ahead of the damage.

Water Spilling Over the Edges

One of the most obvious red flags is water cascading over the sides of your gutters during a rainstorm. This means debris is blocking the water’s path, forcing it to spill out instead of flowing through downspouts. Left unchecked, this overflow can erode soil, damage landscaping, and allow water to seep into your foundation.

Tip: Check your gutters after heavy rain. If you see a waterfall effect, it’s time for a cleaning.

Sagging Gutters

Clogged gutters don’t just trap water — they trap weight. Wet leaves, twigs, and debris can strain the system until gutters sag or even detach from your roofline. Besides looking unsightly, sagging gutters don’t channel water properly, which can make structural problems worse.

Tip: If you notice drooping sections, schedule an inspection quickly before more damage occurs.

Plants Growing in Gutters

If you spot grass, weeds, or even small saplings sprouting from your gutters, you can be sure there’s dirt and standing water providing a fertile home for growth. While it may look comical at first, plants are a sign of long-term neglect and can clog the system entirely.

Tip: Seasonal cleaning in spring and fall will prevent organic matter from creating a rooftop garden.

Pest Infestations

Clogged gutters are prime real estate for pests. Mosquitoes breed in standing water, while rodents and birds build nests in debris. In colder months, pests may even use gutters as an entry point into your attic.

Tip: If you hear scurrying or see nests, cleaning is the first step — and may eliminate the attraction for future infestations.

Stains on Siding

Water doesn’t just spill over clogged gutters — it often leaves behind dirty streaks or mildew on siding. These stains don’t just hurt curb appeal; over time, they can weaken paint and siding materials.

Tip: If you notice streaks, follow up with both a gutter cleaning and an exterior wash to restore your home’s appearance.

Pooling Around the Foundation

Your gutters’ main job is to protect your foundation. When they fail, water can pool around the base of your home. This standing water may eventually seep into the basement, cause cracks, or shift soil — all of which are expensive to fix.

Tip: After a storm, walk around your home to check for puddles. Pooling water means your gutters aren’t doing their job.

Ice Dams in Winter

During Utah winters, clogged gutters can freeze, creating ice dams along the roofline. Ice dams trap melting snow, which can force water back under shingles and into your home. The result? Roof leaks, insulation damage, and costly repairs.

Tip: Clean gutters before winter sets in and consider heat cables if your home is prone to ice dams.

Seasonal Maintenance Matters

A good rule of thumb is to clean gutters at least twice a year — once in spring and again in fall. Homes surrounded by trees may need more frequent care. By keeping up with this routine, you’ll prevent clogs, minimize repairs, and extend the life of your gutter system.

And remember, gutter maintenance isn’t just about function — it’s about protecting your investment. The small effort of cleaning today can prevent thousands of dollars in damage tomorrow.

Leave It to the Professionals

While some homeowners attempt DIY gutter cleaning, it often involves climbing ladders and handling messy debris. That’s where professional help makes all the difference. With the right equipment and training, the job is safer, faster, and more thorough.

At Extreme Cleaning Services, our Gutter Cleaning services remove blockages, flush downspouts, and ensure your system is working at full capacity. Plus, we’re fully insured, giving you peace of mind along with spotless results.

Protect Your Home Today

If you’ve noticed any of these signs your gutter needs cleaning, don’t wait until the damage is done. Schedule a professional inspection and cleaning to keep your gutters — and your home — in top condition.

With consistent care, you’ll enjoy better curb appeal, fewer repairs, and the confidence of knowing your home is protected from the top down.