Most homeowners know that it is a good thing to clean their gutters at least twice a year. However, it is a maintenance task that is easy to forget. Actually, most people only remember their gutters when they get ruined, and start suffering from water damage. Clean rain gutters allow the rainwater to flow from the roof down the spout and away from the house. They do not encourage the formation of ice dams in the winter. On the other hand, when the gutters start deteriorating, so does the condition of the roof.

Here are three easy ways to tell that your gutters have started getting clogged with dirt and that you should hire a professional to clean them.

1. When You Have Animals and Birds Nesting Inside

Most gutters are made of metals like aluminum. If raccoons, squirrels, and mice start crawling inside them, you will feel them scratching. You might also notice their pellet-like droppings near or on the ground next to the gutter. Another way to tell that your gutters need cleaning is when birds start nesting inside them. Birds are usually very noisy, and you cannot miss hearing them as they come and go, feed their young ones, and make more nests. Any of these signs indicate it's time to call a professional gutter cleaner to inspect your gutters, clean out the debris, and chase away the vermin. 

2. When They Start Growing Greenery

Another common problem that results from dirty gutters is that they accumulate a lot of dirt in the summer. When this is mixed up with the leaves and other debris, the gutter gets blocked and creates a nourishing environment for small green plants such as moss and algae. The problem could spread to your shingles and start causing roof damage. The moisture and nutrients can also lead to mold growth, present as black or brown spots on the roof.

3. When They Create Waterfalls During the Rain

The other indicator that it might be time to hire professionals to clean your gutters is when they start forming waterfalls during the rain. It often indicates that the gutters are blocked, and that water is not flowing inside and down the spout. Gutter cleaning professionals will unclog and clean the gutters, restoring the flow of water.

These are the three most common indicators that your gutters need professional cleaning. Hiring professionals for regular cleaning and maintenance is a great way to keep your gutters in good shape for a long time. They will clean the gutters and help you extend the life of your roof, and safeguard your foundation from damage.