Gutter Trouble? Why Summer Is the Best Time to Catch Gutter Damage

When most homeowners think of roofing problems, they picture missing shingles or storm damage, not clogged gutters. But according to Paul Browne, operations manager at McCoy Roofing, overlooking your gutters could lead to major issues down the line.

“Gutters aren’t just an accessory,” Paul says. “They’re part of your roof’s drainage system. If they’re blocked or damaged, water has nowhere to go—and that’s when you start seeing leaks, wood rot, or even foundation problems.”

What Causes Gutter Damage in the Summer?

Your gutter system is designed to catch water running off the roof and safely direct it away from your home. But when debris like leaves, seed pods, or even leftover firework wrappers get lodged inside, water backs up. This can:

• Overflow under your shingles, weakening the roof deck
• Soak the fascia boards, leading to mold or rot
• Spill over the edge, pooling around your foundation or basement
• Pull the gutters loose, especially if they’ve taken on extra weight from standing water or storm debris

“After every major storm—or a weekend full of fireworks—it’s smart to give your gutters a look,” Paul notes. “You’d be surprised how much junk ends up in there without anyone realizing it.”

Fireworks + Storms = Hidden Gutter Damage Risk

While fall leaves are the usual suspect for clogged gutters, summer storms are sneakier. High winds can strip small branches and roofing granules right off your home, while fireworks leave behind burnt cardboard and paper. If that debris finds its way into your gutter system, the results can be costly.

“Even if you don’t see damage from the ground, the water has to go somewhere,” Paul says. “And it’s often going exactly where you don’t want it—under shingles or into your siding.”

How to Spot the Early Signs of Gutter Damage

Not sure your gutters are in good shape? Here are a few signs it’s time to take a closer look:

• Water spilling over the sides during storms
• Staining on your siding or fascia
• Visible sagging or separation from the house
• Basement dampness after heavy rain

If you’re seeing any of these signs—or if you’re unsure—summer is the best time to get ahead of the problem. Most contractors, including McCoy Roofing, offer gutter checks as part of a roof inspection.

Preventing Gutter Damage: What You Can Do (and What We’ll Handle)

You can help prevent issues by:

• Clearing visible debris using a garden hose or small scoop
• Checking downspouts to ensure water flows freely
• Watching for signs of overflow during storms
• Making sure splash blocks or downspout extensions are pointed away from your home

And if you’re not comfortable on a ladder, let us handle it. At McCoy Roofing, we’ll check your gutter system as part of our free inspection, and we’ll let you know if repairs are needed before fall brings heavier rains.

Schedule a Summer Inspection Before Gutter Damage Gets Worse

“Summer’s the right time to check,” Paul says. “If you wait until the leaves fall, you might be dealing with damage that’s already been done.”

If you’ve had recent storms, noticed pooling water, or just haven’t looked at your gutters in a while, now’s the time. A few minutes of prevention could save you thousands in repairs later on.

Need help? Give McCoy Roofing a call—we’ll inspect your roof and gutters for free.