Why Are There Weeds Growing In My Gutters?

This thing surprises a lot of homeowners. One day you glance up at the roofline and notice something…is that a plant? Growing out of the gutter? Sounds strange, but it actually happens fairly often in Tucson.

Gutters slowly collect debris. Dust blows in. Leaves fall from nearby trees. Small bits of roof grit wash down over time. Eventually all that stuff settles into the bottom of the gutter channel. Give it a little moisture during a monsoon storm and suddenly it behaves a lot like soil.

Around Tucson, CR Gutters, Inc.™ sees this during inspections more than people expect. From the ground the gutter might look fine, but up close there’s a packed layer of dust and debris sitting inside. Once a seed lands there, weeds can start growing. It’s basically a tiny accidental garden.

Why gutters in Tucson can grow weeds

Desert climates still produce a surprising amount of debris.

In the Tucson area, wind pushes dust everywhere. Gutters catch a lot of it.

Leaves from Palo Verde or Mesquite trees fall onto the roof. From there, they slide into the gutter. Twigs land there after windy days. Roof granules slowly wash down with rain.

Over time all of it builds up. When the layer gets thick enough, seeds blown over by the wind settle into it and start growing. This is the reason Tucson residents sometimes spot weeds, grass, or moss along their gutter line.

Some common debris found in gutters includes:

• Desert dust and dirt
• Leaves from nearby trees
• Small twigs and seed pods
• Roof grit washing down over time

Once debris piles up, water stops draining properly and plants can take root.

Signs that your gutters need cleaning

Seeing weeds in the gutter is a pretty clear sign the system needs attention. But there are usually other clues too.

Homeowners in Tucson sometimes notice:

• Plants or moss along the gutter edge
• Water spilling over during storms
• Downspouts draining slowly
• Debris visible inside the gutter

The above are common indications that debris has been accumulating in the gutter channel for some time. This buildup must be removed by cleaning the gutter system thoroughly before the channels clog and cause serious damage. A good idea is installation of gutter guards to prevent the buildup in the first place.

What it costs to get gutters cleaned in Tucson

Cleaning gutters having debris or plant growth is quite straightforward.

Professional gutter cleaning in most homes and commercial buildings in Tucson usually costs $200-$400. Price variation depends on the size of the property and the amount of buildup collected in the gutters.

Catching the problem early usually keeps the job quick and simple.

Have you spotted weeds growing along the roofline? It is probably time to have the gutters cleared out. Debris builds up quietly and then shows up once plants start growing.

Get in touch with CR Gutters, Inc.™ at (602) 671-3476 if it is time for gutter cleaning in your Tucson home or business. Our technicians’ visit can clear out the dust and debris so water drains the way it should again.