How To Tell If You Need Gutter Service
Gutters are a critical component of any roofing system. They are essentially micro-ducts that are installed along the edge of the roof to direct water away from the foundation and prevent water damage.
According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, gutter failures account for over 20% of all roof maintenance expenditures. Even if you take proactive measures to care for your gutters and keep them clear of debris, they can still become clogged or begin to deteriorate after extended exposure to the elements.
There are a variety of warning signs that indicate you need gutter service. Understanding those signs will help you avoid costly repairs in the future. Here’s what you should look for if you think your gutters need inspection or repair.
Signs Your Gutter May Need Repairs
Some of the most common signs that your gutters may need repairs include: Gutters that are clogged with debris can prevent water from draining properly. If they are not cleaned out on a regular basis, they can become clogged with leaves, twigs and other debris, which can compromise their structural integrity and prevent them from doing their job.
Loose or sagging gutters that were once held in place by snap-in connectors can lead to water pooling and seeping into the exterior wall of your home. This can cause significant damage, including rot and mold, which can lead to costly repairs.
Guttering that is overflowing can cause water to leak into the interior of your home, creating a potential health hazard. If water is overflowing from an overburdened gutter, it’s a sign that it may be time to replace the entire gutter system.
Showering of leaves, branches and other debris on the ground below the gutters is another sign that your gutters might be due for a replacement. This debris can clog gutters, causing water to back up and flow over the edge of the gutter system. Damaged gutters are often the first part of a roofing system to show signs of wear and tear, especially if they’re not cleaned or maintained on a regular basis.
Gutters that are damaged are more likely to leak, which can lead to water damage and expensive repairs. If your gutters are damaged, you may want to consider having them replaced.
Damage to your roofing materials
Gutters work to direct water away from the foundation of your home, but they can also reduce the amount of water that comes in contact with your roofing materials, which can help to extend the lifespan of your roof.
However, if water pours over the edge of your gutters and comes into contact with your roofing materials, it can lead to rust and other types of corrosion that can significantly shorten the lifespan of your roof. If your roof is relatively new, you may be able to spot corrosion of your roofing materials by inspecting the exterior of your home.
After a few years, however, the corrosion will be so severe that you won’t be able to detect it without a thorough inspection.
sagging or loose gutters
When guttering isn’t properly installed, it can lead to sagging or slipping gutters. Sagging gutters can cause water to pool against the exterior of your home, which can lead to costly repairs.
Loose gutters, on the other hand, can lead to water leaks, which can also result in costly repairs. If your gutters are sagging or loose, it’s possible to repair them with the help of a professional gutter repair service.
Guttering that is overflowing
If your gutters are overflowing, it’s a sign that they’re not able to handle the amount of water that is coming into contact with them. Overflowing gutters can cause water to seep into the exterior of your home, which can lead to costly repairs. It can also create a potential health hazard for your family.
If your gutters are overflowing, it’s a sign that they need to be cleaned or replaced. It’s not always possible to repair overflowing gutters.
Showering of leaves, branches and other debris on the ground below the gutters
Showering of leaves, branches and other debris on the ground below the gutters is another sign that your gutters may be due for a replacement. This debris can clog gutters, causing water to back up and flow over the edge of the gutter system.
If your gutters are showering debris on the ground below them, it’s a sign that they may be too full to be cleaned. This can be a sign of a more serious problem, such as a gutter that is too full to be cleaned or a gutter that is full of holes. It can also be a sign that you need to replace your gutters.
Damage to the foundation of your home
Gutters are a critical part of any roofing system. When they aren’t properly installed or maintained, they can lead to water damage that extends to the foundation of your home.
This can result in costly repairs, as well as the need to replace the damaged portion of your roofing system. If your gutters are causing water damage to your foundation, it’s a sign that they need to be repaired or replaced.
Before you make any repairs, however, you should consult with an expert who can inspect your roofing system to identify the source of the water damage and recommend the best course of action.
Conclusion
Gutters can be a critical part of any roofing system, but they can become clogged or deteriorate over time. When this happens, water can back up and flow over the edge of the gutter system, causing significant damage to your home.
If you notice any of the signs above, it may be time to schedule gutter service. Gutter repair and maintenance is important for keeping your roof and home safe from water damage.
If you notice any signs that your gutters may need repairs or maintenance, don’t wait to call a professional.