Key takeaways
- Clogged gutters send water behind the fascia.
- Sagging gutters pool water.
- Downspouts must discharge away from the house.
- Check gutters in fall and spring.
Gutters do quiet, important work. When they fail, water goes where it should not.
Common problems
- Clogs from leaves and granules
- Sagging sections that pool water
- Loose fasteners
- Leaking seams
- Downspouts that dump water at the foundation
What it can cause
- Rotted fascia and soffit
- Water behind siding
- Roof edge damage
- Foundation moisture
Maintenance
Clean gutters in late fall and spring, and after big storms. Check that water flows freely and exits away from the house.