Cicadas and Your Gutters: Protecting Your Home with Gutter Guards

The emergence of cicadas is a spectacle that occurs with clockwork precision, captivating entomologists and laypeople alike. However, their appearance, particularly in large numbers, is not without its drawbacks. While the primary allure of these insects lies in their distinctive singing, many homeowners across the Midwest and Southeast are discovering an unexpected problem: cicadas can wreak havoc on their gutters. 

The Cicada Phenomenon

Cicadas are winged insects known for their loud, buzzing calls, which are produced by males to attract females. These insects emerge in large numbers, often during specific years in cycles that can range from annual to every 13 or 17 years, depending on the species. The 2021 emergence of Brood X, one of the largest and most widely recognized broods, brought billions of cicadas into view across many states. Their sheer numbers can overwhelm the environment, creating significant challenges for homeowners.

Cicadas and Gutter Problems

Cicadas themselves are relatively harmless to humans and do not bite or sting. However, their impact on the environment, and specifically on residential areas, can be considerable. The primary issues cicadas cause to gutters include:

1. Blockages from Exoskeletons and Bodies: Cicadas shed their exoskeletons as they mature, leaving behind a significant amount of debris. Additionally, the lifespan of an adult cicada is short, and their bodies often end up accumulating in gutters. This can lead to severe blockages, preventing the proper flow of rainwater and potentially causing overflow and water damage to homes.

2. Increased Debris from Nearby Trees: Cicadas often congregate in trees, and their presence can result in increased leaf and twig debris falling into gutters. This exacerbates the problem of gutter blockages and can strain the gutter system.

3. Attraction of Predators: The abundance of cicadas can attract various predators, such as birds and small mammals, which may disturb gutters further as they forage for food.

The Role of Gutter Guards

Gutter guards like those produced by Gutterglove® are designed to prevent debris from entering gutters while allowing water to flow freely. They come in various types, including mesh screens, reverse curve systems, and brush inserts, each offering unique advantages. Here’s how gutter guards can protect your home from cicada-related issues:

1. Preventing Blockages: By covering the gutters, gutter guards keep cicada exoskeletons and bodies out, reducing the risk of blockages. This ensures that rainwater can flow freely through the gutter system, preventing overflow and water damage.

2. Reducing Maintenance: With gutter guards in place, the frequency and intensity of gutter cleaning are significantly reduced. Homeowners can avoid the unpleasant task of removing large amounts of cicada debris by hand.

3. Protecting the Structural Integrity of Gutters: Accumulated debris can add weight and strain to gutters, potentially causing them to sag or detach from the house. Gutter guards help maintain the structural integrity of gutters by preventing heavy buildup.

4. Deterioration Prevention: Organic matter in gutters can decompose and lead to rusting or deterioration of the gutter material. By keeping cicadas and other debris out, gutter guards extend the lifespan of the gutter system.

Choosing the Right Gutter Guards

Selecting the appropriate gutter guards for your home depends on various factors, including the local environment, roof type, and specific needs. Here are some common types of gutter guards and their benefits:

1. Mesh Screens: These are fine screens that cover the gutter and allow water to pass through while blocking debris. They are highly effective at keeping small particles, like cicada exoskeletons, out.

2. Reverse Curve Systems: These guards direct water over a curved edge into the gutter while deflecting debris away. While they may require less maintenance than other gutter guard designs by blocking large debris, they are hard to clean and are less effective in heavy rain.  

3. Brush Inserts: These consist of bristles that sit inside the gutter, catching debris while allowing water to flow through. They are easy to install and remove for cleaning but will not prevent broad debris build up and will need to be replaced every few years

4. Foam Inserts: Made of porous foam, these guards fit inside the gutter and filter out debris. They are particularly good at handling organic matter but have a short lifespan and need to be replaced every few years.

Installation and Maintenance

Proper installation is crucial for the effectiveness of gutter guards. It is often recommended to hire a professional to ensure that the guards are fitted correctly and securely. Once installed, gutter guards require minimal maintenance, but periodic checks are advisable to ensure they function as intended and are not clogged with finer debris.

The emergence of cicadas, while fascinating, presents practical challenges for homeowners, particularly concerning gutter maintenance. The significant accumulation of cicada debris can lead to blockages, water damage, and increased maintenance. Gutter guards offer an effective solution by preventing debris from entering the gutters, ensuring proper water flow, and reducing the need for frequent cleaning. Investing in high-quality gutter guards can save homeowners time, effort, and potentially costly repairs, making them a wise choice during cicada emergence periods.

For homeowners in the Midwest and Southeast, preparing for the next cicada emergence with appropriate gutter protection measures can provide peace of mind and preserve the integrity of their homes.