The answer to 'what causes gutters' is that gutters are designed to collect and divert rainwater away from the home's foundation. Gutters are typically installed along the roofline to catch water flowing off the roof and channel it through downspouts to a safe drainage area. Over time, gutters can become clogged with leaves, debris, and sediment, which can cause them to overflow and lead to water damage.
Proper gutter maintenance is important to prevent issues like basement flooding, foundation erosion, and landscape damage. Regularly cleaning out leaves and debris, checking for leaks or sagging, and ensuring downspouts are directing water away from the home can help keep your gutters functioning properly.