From your roof and siding to gutters and downspouts, your house is designed to drive the elements away from its own foundation and avoid the consequences of water damage. However, when you neglect gutter cleaning, insects and wildlife may call your drainage system home, preventing it from doing its job. To learn how pests pose a threat, and how to stop them, consider the following overview.

What Problems Can Pests Cause for Gutters?

A variety of animals see gutters as the perfect place to shack up—either solo or with their families. Birds, squirrels, and mice love staying in a place that’s high above predators on the ground, and yet, much cozier and safer than the branches of a tree.

Unfortunately, the weight of their nests can weigh down your home’s drainage system, especially if they start raising offspring. This will prevent the channels from effectively draining water away from your home’s foundation, leading to water damage and even mold growth in your basement.

How Can I Prevent These Issues?

The presence of leaves and branches only make your gutters seem like a more attractive home for pests. Therefore, schedule gutter cleaning a few times a year, such as after every season, to clear the drainage system of a mouse or a bird’s favorite furnishings.

You should also hire a gutter cleaning team after a severe storm, as the wind and rain will leave an excess of materials in your gutters. It’s also important to inspect your gutters for damage, such as cracks or holes, caused by mice, birds, squirrels, and other pests.

If you’re interested in scheduling gutter cleaning service, get in touch with ABC Services of Cincinnati, OH. Their professionals will ensure your property’s drainage system is free of any debris that could lead to damage, mold growth or attract pests. They also offer other home maintenance services, such as dryer vent cleaning. To learn more about their offerings, visit the website or call (513) 801-4454 for a free estimate.