Do I Really Need to Clean My Gutters for Roof Protection?

When it comes to protecting your home, your roof and gutters work together as a system. If your gutters are clogged, water can back up, overflow, and eventually damage both your roof and your home’s structure. So, do gutters protect your roof? Yes—and keeping them clean is essential.

We sat down with Paul Browne, Production Manager at McCoy Roofing, and Zach Varadi, Sales Manager, to talk about why gutter cleaning is so important for your roof.

How do clogged gutters actually affect a roof?

“Back in the day, gutters were made out of steel,” Zach explains. “We’ve all cleaned gutters before, and they’d smell like a pond. Those old steel gutters would rust. Now they’re aluminum, so rust isn’t the big issue anymore.”

But clogged gutters still cause problems. Zach continues: “The bigger issue I’ve seen is when a gutter clogs in a valley. I’ve seen it where it’s growing out onto the roof. It rusts the gutter apron, which is still steel, and it deteriorates the shingles. Just like anything else, if debris sits on top of shingles, it will damage them and cause rot.”

Paul adds: “If gutters are clogged enough and fill with water, that water can actually back up through the nail holes and seep into the ceiling.”

What kinds of damage can happen if gutters are ignored?

According to Zach, clogged gutters lose their ability to do their job. “Your gutters are designed to be a trough. Imagine having a five-gallon bucket filled with sand—now you only have room for two gallons of water. Less space means less capacity. During heavy rain, water has to go somewhere—either down into your foundation or back into your roof.”

This means clogged gutters can lead to roof leaks, foundation issues, and even interior water damage—all of which cost far more than routine gutter cleaning.

How often should homeowners plan to clean or check their gutters?

“At least twice a year,” Paul says. “Once after winter and once after summer, usually. Think of it like daylight savings—it’s a good reminder to check your gutters while you’re checking other parts of your home.”

The Bottom Line on Gutter Cleaning and Roof Protection

Your gutters aren’t just for show. They’re a critical part of your home’s defense system, and keeping them clear directly protects your roof. Clogged gutters can lead to roof leaks, rotting shingles, and even interior damage.

McCoy Roofing recommends having your gutters cleaned at least twice a year and pairing that with a free roof inspection. Contact us today to schedule your inspection and keep your roof protected.