In the absence of rain gutters, rainwater or snow would just be pouring off the roof straight down the side of your house. When it reaches the base of the house’s foundation, it can result in leaks or erosion. This is the same scenario that would be witnessed if the gutters are clogged with debris and leaves. Water could fall over the roof sides. At the same time, they can damage the roof shingles resulting in the leaking of water into the interior of your home as well. This is a problem that can easily be prevented by regular cleaning of the debris and leaves that drop on the gutters.