Taking good care of your home’s gutter is one of the major ways to extend the life of your roof. The gutter plays an essential role in not just the overall well-being of the roof, but also, in the structural integrity of the rest of the house. Although most gutters can last for 20 years, like your roof, they still have a limited lifespan and you may have to replace them. Knowing when is the right time to invest in gutter replacement is one major challenge most people have, which is why we have put together these 7 signs you may need new gutters.
#1. Cracked or Broken Gutters
Because your home gutters are directly exposed to extreme weather conditions, they’re prone to develop cracks. While small cracks in your gutters may not seem like a big issue and don’t require gutter replacement, when they go unnoticed or unrepaired, it will eventually result in a bigger one. These cracks in your gutters can go as far as damaging other roofing systems such as the shingles above the gutter, the fascia boards behind the gutters, and the foundation below.
The proactive measure you can take today is to contact a local gutter repair professional to help determine whether the crack can easily be repaired and when you need to change the entire gutter system.
#2. Pools of Water or Mildew Near Your Home’s Foundation
Gutters serve different functions to protect your home and household but their primary purpose is to catch rainwater and direct it away from your home’s foundation. When you start noticing pools of water or mildew near your home’s foundation, it’s a sign that your gutters are not working as intended. This can be caused by a clogged downspout that can cause gutters to fill with water, resulting in damage to the roof, siding, and foundation, if ignored.
#3. Peeling Paint
Peeling paint on and around your gutters, except your gutters are extremely old, indicates continuous standing water in your gutters which means that the gutter is not doing its primary job to keep water flowing away from the home. The paint on your gutters is designed to withstand typical wear and tear throughout the season, when it fails to do so it signifies a major breakdown or damage to your gutter which will require a gutter replacement sooner than later.
#4. Sagging Gutters
Sagging gutters mostly occurs when the gutters are not installed properly which can result in water accumulation and sagging. There are other factors that can cause gutters to sag such as;
- They’re too small.
- Get clogged by debris and other materials.
- Not enough support and more.
Whatever the case may be, these can prevent them from channeling water away from home, causing them to hold water longer than they are designed, which will eventually lead to overflowing or collapse. Sagging gutters could be a hassle to repair which is why in most cases you may need new gutters.
#5. Gutter Rust
Most gutters such as the aluminum gutter have been stated to be 99% rust proof, however, extreme circumstances such as excess moisture that causes the metal joints and fixtures to fail can result in gutter rust and corrosion. Gutter rust is one of the most obvious indicators that you may need a new gutter. While small rust in your gutters may not seem like a big issue, if not repaired quickly, it will eventually turn into large rust spots which can compromise your gutter system.
#6. Fallen Nails, Screws, or Fasteners
Screws and nails are part of the fasteners that keep your gutters attached to your roof so they can properly channel water away from your home’s foundation. You can easily repair or replace the fasteners, but if you keep picking them up off of the ground, then the fasteners may not be the issue. In this case, this could be a sign of wear and tear on the gutters which may need a gutter replacement.
#7. Water Damage or Water Marks Directly Beneath The Gutters
Water damage or marks directly beneath the gutters is one of the major signs that you need a gutter replacement as this indicates that leaking or overflowing water is escaping the gutter. Checking your gutters at least once per year, preferably on a day that is relatively sunny and free from rain, will help to determine if there is water damage or water marks underneath the gutter. This type of water intrusion can damage your soffit and fascia board, which threatens the integrity of your gutters. This type of water damage will require a gutter replacement to prevent water from making its way inside.
Conclusion
Gutters are an important part of your home as they direct water away from your home and prevent it from making its way inside to cause major havoc. Taking the necessary measures to prevent water leaks into your home is crucial as it can lead to bigger issues and damages down the line if ignored. Although most people tend to clean their gutter several times a year to improve its longevity and fix any damage early on, a time will come when you will eventually need a gutter replacement, as every installation has an expiration date. If you notice any of the signs above, then you might have to contact a reliable roofing contractor to fix or replace your home gutters.
