Gutter maintenance – it’s one of those home chores that often slips under the radar. We get it; leaves and twigs in your gutters don’t seem like a big deal, right? Well, they might not wreck your gutters, but they can turn your gutters into cozy homes for some uninvited guests.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to six common critters that can take up residence in your gutters and what you can do about them. Spoiler alert: keeping your gutters clean is the key to sending these critters packing.
Meet the Unwanted Guests
Here are the critters that might be setting up camp in your gutters:
1. Mosquitos
- These little bloodsuckers love standing water, which can form in clogged gutters.
- Mosquitos can be carriers of diseases such as Malaria and Zika Virus, making them more than just an annoyance but a health threat as well
2. Birds
- Birds can nest in gutters filled that are filled with debris.
- While they’re not harmful, bird droppings can stain your home’s exterior and clog gutters.
3. Rodents (Mice, Squirrels, and Chipmunks)
- Like birds, rodents build nests in cluttered gutters.
- Unlike birds, they might find their way inside your home, especially in winter.
4. Bees and Wasps
- These stinging insects might see your gutters as a safe nesting spot.
- Their hives can weigh down gutters and damage your roof, not to mention the fact that they do sting pretty bad.
5. Snakes
- Potentially the most dangerous guests, snakes can enter gutters from nearby trees.
- Clogged gutters provide the ideal environment for them.
6. Ants and Termites
- Gutter debris can shelter ants, and they can be tough to get rid of.
- Carpenter ants and termites may also enter your home via gutters, causing hidden wood damage.
Evicting Your Unwanted Guests
If you discover any of these critters in your gutters, here’s what you can do to get rid of them:
Mosquitos
- Call a pest removal specialist for effective mosquito control.
Birds
- Wait for an inactive nesting period or call a professional to relocate their nests.
- Use decoys like rubber snakes or owl statues to deter future nesting.
Rodents
- Regular cleaning helps. Seal cracks and gaps along your home.
- Consider calling a specialist to remove these critters.
Bees and Wasps
- Always seek professional help to remove these stinging insects.
Snakes
- If you spot snake skins, call a pest removal expert, ASAP!
Ants and Termites
- Pest removal specialists can eliminate ants or termites.
- Consult an expert for structural damage assessment.
Preventing Critters in Gutters
The best defense against critters in your gutters is good offense through regular maintenance. Critters love messy, dirty and clogged gutters. Clean them at least twice a year, preferably in early spring and fall, or more frequently if you live in a wooded area.
Consider installing gutter guards (leaf protection). These barriers keep debris out while allowing water in. There are various types of gutter guards to fit any budget in. You can buy them in the nearest construction materials shop near your area or, you can seek help from the pros to know what type would suit your home behest.
Here are some of its common samples:
- E-Z Gutter Guards – A simple and effective choice.
- Perforated Aluminum Gutter Guards – Durable and reliable protection.
- Micro Screen Gutter Guards – Fine mesh design for superior debris prevention.
And the best past? You can install these guards on your existing gutters, eliminating the need for a whole new system.
Don’t underestimate the importance of clean gutters. Regular maintenance not only prevents critters from making themselves at home but also preserves your gutter system. If you’re tired of climbing that ladder, it might be time to consider gutter guards. Fuquay Varina Gutter Cleaning & Power Washing, with over 10 years of experience, can help you find the right solution for your gutters. We also offer gutter installation and other related services.
When it comes to your gutter cleaning and power washing needs, look no further! Our team exclusively employs cutting-edge equipment and highly effective cleaning solutions, ensuring you get the most value for your investment.
Fuquay Varina Gutter Cleaning & Power Washing proudly serves clients in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, and the surrounding areas. Our commitment to delivering top-notch service has been unwavering for years. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. We’ll promptly respond and dispatch our expert technicians to assess your situation.
