The year 2023 is coming to an end, and as is our tradition, it’s time to showcase the worst gutter blockage we discovered over the last 12 months. It was a big year as far as world events were concerned, but compared to the last few years, the gutter blockages were mercifully common (albeit still challenging). So, without further ado, here’s our worst gutter blockage of 2023.
Leaves and Branches and Grass, Oh My!
In 2020, we saw a tree in the gutter, 2021 featured severe damage from fallen trees, and a pernicious vine was 2022’s cause of worst blocked gutters. In 2023, the worst blockage was caused by a triple onslaught of some frequent offenders: leaves, branches, and even actively growing grass.
This type of gutter blockage can happen to anyone. What made this clogged gutter and dirty roof unusual is that this customer already had a gutter guard installed.
Thanks to the gutter guard, the damage to the gutters wasn’t as extensive as it could have been. Then again, you can imagine just how dire the situation had become that even the gutter guards were so overlaid with debris that they got clogged!
Why This Happened
This kind of clog usually occurs when a roof hasn’t been checked on for too long. You can see that the debris doesn’t only cover the gutters, but also the roof itself. Over the course of what must have been years, branches and leaves were falling on the roof, likely because of strong winds and regular storms.
The wind can also carry seeds with it. You can see that one portion of the gutter became a comfortable planter for weeds, which also required clearing.
How We Cleared It
As part of our comprehensive service at Grayson’s Gutter Cleaning, we cleared away those heavy branches and took away several bags of leaves and other plant matter. It was our toughest job of the year, but also one of the most rewarding!
At Grayson’s, we believe that a job well done should also keep your gutters protected for the future. In addition to cleaning the gutter guard and roof, we also cleared away branches that were hanging over the roof, since it was clear they were a major source of debris. In the future, we could easily foresee a fallen branch actively damaging the roof, which we wanted to prevent.
How to Prevent Such Blockages
Trees are essential to having a good quality of life, but when they shed their leaves and branches, they cause all sorts of trouble to our homes. Here’s how you can prevent such severe blockages from occurring in the first place:
- Have a gutter guard installed to limit any damage to your gutters. This will save you the need to clear your gutters every few months.
- That said, you’re not off the hook for cleaning your gutters or roof just because you have a gutter guard! Make sure to have your gutters cleaned at least once or twice a year.
- Keep trees around your home trimmed, and remove any branches that hang over your roof.
- Check for debris buildup on your roof regularly, especially after storms.
What To Do if My Gutters Are Blocked?
When you’re dealing with clogged gutters, your best bet is to call the experts. Who knows, maybe you have next year’s worst gutter blockage winner?
At Grayson’s, we deal with different kinds of gutter blockages every day. It’s our mission to leave every home better than we found it, with thorough roof and gutter cleaning and gutter protection installation services. Call us at 1300 GRAYSONS (1300 472 976) for a consultation and quote!
