Gutters are an incredibly important part of your home. When they’re not cared for adequately, a host of problems can ensue. Wet and debris filled gutters are not ideal for your home, but they are ideal homes for many of natures creatures. While some are less menacing than others, they all can wreak havoc when they decide to live in your gutters.
Mosquitoes
One tablespoon of standing water can breed hundreds of mosquitoes. It’s a scary thought. Mosquitoes like to live where they breed, so if you’re noticing a lot of them around your home, there is probably a breeding ground of standing water nearby. If your gutters are full of wet leaves, mosquitoes are likely to create a home there. Some experts call mosquitoes the most dangerous animals because they transmit serious human diseases like West Nile Virus, Zika Virus, yellow fever, and malaria. These diseases infect hundreds of millions and kill millions every year.
Birds
While they serenade us with their songs and enchant us with their beauty, you probably don’t want birds living in your gutters. Twigs, pine needles, and leaves are their chosen building materials, and when these items are free for the taking in your gutters, birds can’t resist making their home. While birds probably aren’t your biggest concern, they can stain your house with droppings, and their nests can make your storm drainage system quite inefficient. Birds also learn to nest in the same spots year after year, so it’s best to prevent it from happening in the first place.
Mice
Birds aren’t the only animals who nest. Unlike birds, mice have the unfortunate habit of chewing through wood. So, a mouse living in your gutters can quickly become a mouse living inside your house. No thanks. Keep those gutters clean, and mice aren’t likely to find them an inviting home.
Stinging Insects
Bees, wasps, and hornets aren’t as attracted to debris as the other common gutter-loving pests. Instead, they just like being high off the ground. You’ll probably want to remove nests promptly to avoid cowering in fear every time you walk outside. If you’re not afraid, then consider other damages these nests can cause. Particularly heavy nests could compromise the integrity of your gutters or roof.
Snakes
Whether you’re a snake lover or not, you probably don’t want to walk outside and find one hanging from your gutter. These predators love shade, warmth, and small animals to feed on. Therefore, your mouse-infested gutters are an excellent home. If you see a snake in your gutters, you probably should call animal control.
To make gutters a less than inviting home for pests, consider the following tips. Regularly remove debris. This serves to remove items that allow water to flow freely so that standing water isn’t drawing unwanted creatures. Consider gutter guards. They’re a great option to avoid debris in the first place. The professionals at Gutter People are experienced in choosing and installing the gutter guards you want and need. We also offer maintenance programs to ensure that your gutters are not ideal homes for critters. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote.