Why Do Black Streaks Form on My Gutters?

After a Tampa Bay rain, you might look up and see dark streaks sliding down what used to be bright white gutters. They do not appear overnight, but do spread fast once they start. These stains are a mix of mildew, shingle dust, and fine grit dragged down the roof by rain. The region’s humidity, salt air, and heat gradually harden the residue. Eventually, it becomes part of the finish.

Initially, it is just a few smudges. They deepen in a few months, dulling the color and eating into the paint. Sometimes they’re only cosmetic; other times they hint that water isn’t draining quite right. When that happens, it helps to call someone who knows Tampa Bay’s weather and how to protect against it — like CR Gutters, Inc.™.

Why Streaks Form So Quickly in Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay’s air is never dry. Rain carries roof oils, pollen, and debris straight down the gutter face. When the sun returns, it bakes everything into a thin film that darkens with each storm. Shaded spots stay damp longer, resulting in mildew and algae growth. Homes under trees see it worst — sap and leaves trap moisture and feed the growth.

You can scrub all you want, but the buildup will come back unless it is treated correctly. The combination of heat and salt makes it nearly impossible to remove without the right cleaners and a gentle touch.

How CR Gutters Cleans and Protects Your Gutters

At CR Gutters, Inc.™, we’ve cleaned and restored gutters all across Tampa Bay — from coastal cottages to inland homes. We inspect carefully to find the cause of stains. Thereafter, we use mild, non-abrasive cleaners that are made for coated metals to keep their finish intact.

Clogged outlets or small leaks, if any, are addressed before they turn serious. Our goal isn’t just to brighten your gutters for a day but to help them hold their color through Tampa Bay’s heat and humidity.

Cost of Gutter Cleaning in Tampa Bay

Professional cleaning and streak removal usually cost $150–$350, depending on the home’s size and buildup. That includes washing, light scrubbing, and a protective rinse that slows future mildew. With CR Gutters, Inc.™, you’ll get straightforward pricing and lasting results, never a rushed job or harsh chemicals.

Simple Upkeep Between Cleanings

• Wash gutters using a garden hose once or twice a year.
• Cut away branches hanging too close to the roof to keep gutters free from debris.
• Take a slow walk around your home after a heavy Tampa Bay rain to spot new streaks before they settle in.

Regular care keeps Tampa Bay homes looking sharp year-round.

Call for a Free Estimate

If your gutters have lost their shine, give CR Gutters, Inc.™ a call at (941) 367-2727. Our Tampa Bay crew knows this weather inside and out — the salt in the air, the sudden downpours, and how fast they wear things down. We’ll bring back that clean, bright look you remember and help keep it that way. From deep cleaning to preventive care, your gutters will be ready for every Tampa Bay storm ahead.