The Top 5 Signs Your Gutters Need Cleaning

Gutters are one of the most overlooked parts of home maintenance—until something goes wrong. In Kihei and other parts of Maui, wind-blown debris, palm fronds, and heavy rains can quickly clog your gutter system, leading to a range of issues from roof leaks to foundation damage. Knowing when to clean your gutters can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your home protected year-round.

Here are five clear signs it’s time to schedule a professional gutter cleaning.

1. Water Spills Over the Sides During Rain

If you notice water pouring over the edges of your gutters during a rainstorm, it’s a sure sign of a clog. Blocked gutters can’t direct water away from your home properly, which means excess water could be soaking into your walls, roofline, or foundation. In Kihei, where sudden downpours are common, this can lead to rapid erosion and water intrusion.

2. Plants or Weeds Are Growing in the Gutters

If your gutters are starting to look more like flower boxes, it’s time for a cleanout. Built-up dirt, leaves, and moisture can create the perfect environment for seeds to sprout. Not only does this impact the function of your gutter system, but it also adds unnecessary weight that can damage brackets and cause sagging.

3. You See Signs of Rust, Sagging, or Separation

Clogged gutters often hold standing water, which leads to corrosion and rust—especially in Maui’s salty, humid air. Over time, the added weight can cause your gutters to sag or pull away from the house. These visible signs are indicators that the system hasn’t been draining properly and needs immediate attention.

4. Pests Are Hanging Around the Roofline

Insects and rodents love clogged gutters. Damp leaves and debris create a cozy, hidden space for mosquitoes, ants, and even rats to nest. If you’re seeing more pests than usual near your roof or eaves, your gutters may be the source of the problem.

5. Water Pools Around Your Home’s Foundation

When water can’t flow through your gutters, it ends up pouring over the sides and pooling at the base of your home. Over time, this can cause soil erosion, cracks in your foundation, or even basement leaks. In areas like Kihei where sandy soils and landscaping are common, pooling water can quickly create structural and drainage issues.

Stay Ahead with Routine Gutter Maintenance

Cleaning your gutters isn’t just about preventing clogs—it’s about protecting your entire home. In Maui's climate, with consistent trade winds and surrounding vegetation, most homes benefit from at least two cleanings per year—more if you’re near tall palm trees or dense foliage.

At Phantom Glass Maui, we offer safe, thorough gutter cleaning services for residential and commercial properties. We’ll remove all debris, flush the system, and inspect for signs of damage—so your gutters work the way they should, rain or shine.