The problems start when the gutters get blocked. This can start with vegetation, like leaves, that collect on the roof and are pushed down with the rain. These often begin to build up in gutters and particularly around drain joints. It’s common for birds to set-up nests in gutters, which adds to the debris that is accumulating. If water can’t flow freely along the gutter and down the drainpipes, then it begins to pool. This can be the start of more serious problems. If water can’t flow away, it can seep into brick and the wooden soffits or fascias that will be nearby. Obviously, if it’s exposed to wood for long periods, eventually they will start to rot.