In areas prone to heavy rain, gutters play a vital role in the overall condition of homes. If they become damaged or clogged, they will no longer work properly. Unfortunately, this can directly affect the health of your roofing system. Here are some issues you can prevent by scheduling gutter cleaning or repairs.

How Do Gutter Problems Affect Roofing?

1. Leaks

Gutters can fill up with leaves, twigs, and other debris. If birds or other wildlife take shelter in your gutters, blockages can become severe. Eventually, water won’t flow through the gutters and into the downspouts and will spill over the sides. If water flows onto your roof repeatedly, it could saturate the shingles and cause a leak.

2. Wood Rot

Wooden structural components, such as the sheathing and rafters, are vulnerable to water damage from faulty gutters, which can lead to internal rot of the material. Rot causes the wood to be less dense, and the roofing system may experience structural issues and the possibility of collapse.

3. Wind Damage

In addition to getting clogged, gutters can sag or pull away from your home over time. This may be due to heavy clogs, wildlife, or storm damage. If you don’t replace the gutters or have them reattached, high winds could pull them farther away from your home. During a storm, this could put pressure on the edges of your roofing system, even breaking off part of the fascia or rafter ends. 

If your roof has sustained damage because of gutter problems, turn to Roof Maxx Hawaii. They provide roof restoration services to residents in Mililani, HI, and throughout Oahu. They also offer gutter cleaning services, so you can prevent blockages from damaging your roofing. To learn more about their services, visit the website, or call (808) 522-7663 to schedule a free inspection.