Why Are My Gutters Overflowing During Seattle Rain?
When the clouds open up over Seattle, most of us expect a little extra rain — but not a waterfall pouring off the roof. Overflow from gutters almost every time it rains is a common problem the city’s homeowners encounter. Moss growth, and pine needles collected on rooftops can quickly clog gutters that once worked fine.
Overflow isn’t just annoying; it’s a warning sign. That water is supposed to move away from your siding and foundation, not pour down your walls. CR Gutters, Inc.™ has worked with hundreds of Seattle homeowners who thought they just needed a quick cleaning, only to discover their system wasn’t pitched right or had small blockages hiding in the downspouts.
What’s Causing the Overflow?
Seattle rain has a rhythm — light one minute, pounding the next — and your gutters have to keep up. When leaves, moss, or roof grit settle inside, water movement slows down. Once the next heavy shower hits, the troughs fail to keep up, and water spills over the sides.
Sometimes, the culprit is not debris. Older gutters lose their slope as hangers loosen or the fascia shifts slightly over the years. Even a half-inch change results in water collecting where it shouldn’t. Without the correct slant, water pools instead of draining. Its weight makes the sagging worse each season.
Small Clues You Might Be Missing
Overflow doesn’t always mean a full clog — there are subtle early signs. You might see:
- A dark streak or moss trail under the roof edge
- Water splashing near entryways after storms
- Gutters that look slightly tilted or uneven
- Damp spots near the basement windows
Catching these small details early on saves you from bigger repairs later. CR Gutters, Inc.™ can check alignment, clean the system, and recommend fixes before a small leak turns into siding damage.
Best Fixes for Seattle Homes
The first step should be thorough gutter cleaning. Flush the downspouts with a garden hose to clear buildup. If the problem returns quickly, consider getting gutter covers. Micro-mesh gutter guards make a good option because they keep out pine needles and moss without blocking water flow.
For older homes, re-pitching or replacing with seamless aluminum gutters provides a lasting solution. They don’t rust, shed water fast, and handle the region’s rain patterns a lot better than vinyl guttering. CR Gutters, Inc.™ installs these systems specifically for the Pacific Northwest climate, so they last through years of wet weather.
Typical Cost for Gutter Work in Seattle
On average, homeowners spend around $200–$450 for a professional cleaning and $400–$900 for re-pitching or slope correction. While DIY might seem tempting, professional service ensures every joint, hanger, and seal is checked — something that’s hard to catch from a ladder.
Keep the Rain Where It Belongs
Seattle rain isn’t going anywhere, but gutter problems don’t have to keep coming back. Call CR Gutters, Inc.™ at (602) 671-3476 for an expert inspection or seamless installation. Our local team understands how this climate wears on gutters — and how to keep yours flowing right, season after season.