Top 5 Signs Your Gutters Need Clearing—Before Damage Sets In

Clogged gutters can lead to much more than annoying overflows. Left unchecked, they cause costly water damage to your roof, siding, foundation, and landscaping. At TLC: Making It Easy, we help homeowners in Van Wert, Bluffton, Fort Wayne, and beyond protect their homes with timely gutter clearing. Here are five signs it’s time to schedule yours:

1. Water Overflowing the Gutters

The most obvious red flag: water spilling over during a rainstorm. That means debris is blocking flow, and water is finding the fastest exit—over the side.

2. Sagging or Pulling Gutters

Heavy debris buildup—especially wet leaves and sediment—adds weight that causes gutters to sag, pull from the fascia, or even detach.

3. Plants Growing in Your Gutters

Yes, this happens. If you spot weeds or grass sprouting from your gutters, they’re full of dirt and organic matter—a perfect seedbed for unwanted growth.

4. Visible Staining or Mildew on Siding

Clogged gutters allow water to run down your walls instead of flowing through the downspouts. This leads to staining, rot, and mildew growth on siding and windows.

5. No Recent Gutter Service

If you haven’t had your gutters cleared in 6 months or more, buildup is likely happening—even if it hasn’t caused visible damage yet. Preventative cleaning is much cheaper than repair work.