Don’t Let Fall Leaves Lead to Foundation Trouble
Crunchy leaves, cool mornings, and backyard fire pits—fall has a lot to offer. But while you’re enjoying the season, your gutters could be filling up fast. That might not sound like a big deal, but clogged gutters are one of the most common causes of foundation water damage, especially in places like Allentown, PA, where fall rains are frequent and heavy.
At A+ Waterproofing, we’ve seen firsthand how neglected clogged gutters can quietly wreak havoc on homes. Let’s break down why it happens and how to stop it before it becomes a costly repair job.
How Clogged Gutters Can Hurt Your Foundation
Gutters are meant to move rainwater away from your home. When they’re full of leaves, twigs, and debris, they overflow—sending water straight down the side of your house and into the soil around your foundation.
Here’s where things start to go wrong:
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Water pools near your foundation, seeping into small cracks and gaps.
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Soil expands and contracts as it absorbs water and dries out, putting pressure on your foundation walls.
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Repeated exposure to moisture can lead to leaks, bowing walls, and even structural settling.
And it doesn’t take long. One or two seasons of heavy rain with clogged gutters can set the stage for major foundation problems.
Signs Your Gutters or Drainage System May Be Failing
Not sure if water is becoming a problem around your home? Keep an eye out for these common warning signs:
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Splash marks or discoloration on your siding
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Erosion or soil washing away near the foundation
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Water stains or dampness in your basement or crawl space
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Puddles forming right outside your home after it rains
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Cracks in your foundation walls
If you notice any of these, it’s time to take action.
Fall Maintenance Tips to Protect Your Home
The good news? There are some simple steps you can take this fall to help prevent foundation damage:
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Clean your gutters regularly – Ideally once in early fall and again after most of the leaves have fallen.
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Install gutter guards – These keep out debris and reduce how often you’ll need to clean them.
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Check your downspouts – Make sure they extend at least 4–6 feet away from your home.
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Inspect your grading – Your yard should slope away from your foundation, not toward it.
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Look for foundation cracks – Even small ones can allow water to get in and should be sealed.
If you’re not comfortable getting on a ladder or dealing with drainage issues yourself, that’s where we come in.
How A+ Waterproofing Can Help
We specialize in foundation waterproofing and exterior drainage solutions that keep water away from your home—for good. Whether it’s installing a new exterior membrane, sealing cracks, or adding French drains, we’ll tailor a solution to your specific property and needs.
In Allentown, where older homes and uneven grading are common, it’s especially important to stay on top of gutter and drainage maintenance. One small leak in October could become a major problem by spring.
Get Ahead of the Rain—Call A+ Waterproofing Today
If you’re not sure whether your home is at risk, or you’ve already spotted signs of trouble, let’s talk. We offer free inspections and clear, no-pressure recommendations.
Protect your home now before fall rains soak in. A little prevention goes a long way toward avoiding expensive repairs down the road.
Contact A+ Waterproofing today to schedule your inspection today.
