Signs You Need To Replace Your Gutters
One of the most essential parts of your roof is the gutter system. Its primary purpose is to redirect all the snow and rain away from your home’s foundation, preventing water damage as well as mold and mildew growth. Besides this, gutter systems can even add curb appeal to your home, attracting potential buyers should you plan to sell your house sometime in the future.
Gutters today are built to withstand years, some even lasting for more than 20 years depending on the material it was made of. However, no matter much maintenance you do to your gutters, there will come a time when you’ll have to replace them with newer and stronger ones. Before you contact a roofing company for professional gutter installation, here are some signs you need to look out for:
Visible Cracks and Splits in Your Gutters
One of the most obvious signs that your gutters are probably worn out is the appearance of cracks and splits. Even if the damage is relatively small, you may need to consider a replacement soon, as they could only worsen with time. This is especially true during winter when the ice can cause your gutters to crack, warp, or even fall apart under the extra weight.
Peeling Paint
Another easy sign to spot is if you see that paint is slowly peeling away. Most gutters today are painted or coated to protect them from rust and weather. Peeling paint is a good indicator that gutter replacement should happen sooner than later.
When you’re out to inspect your house for peeling paint, be sure to check the gutter closest to it for any signs of damage or wear. Rust may develop in your gutters if exposed to the elements without a good layer of paint, leading to further damage.
Mold Growth in Your Gutters
Any sign of mold growing in your gutters must be dealt with immediately. Mold is a fungus that grows in wet and humid conditions. It reproduces via spores and is spread by air, insects, and water. Not only is prolonged exposure terrible for your health, but it can also compromise the quality of your gutters.
Their presence can ruin the undersides of your gutters and weaken their structure. As gutters age, the connection between gutter pieces will loosen. Once the mold is there, it can clog up your gutters and cause more problems later on.
Sagging Gutters
Not only are sagging gutters unsightly, but they can also be a major sign that there’s something wrong with the current condition of your gutters. Over time, gutters will warp and bend due to prolonged exposure to the elements.
If your gutters are made from metals such as aluminum and steel, they often alternate between expanding and contracting due to the weather. Although manufacturers add some coating to prevent sagging, the changing temperature will eventually cause the metal to warp.
Another cause for sagging gutters is if there’s too much debris and other material clogging them. If the flow of water is blocked, water will eventually pool in your gutters longer than it should. This added weight bends and weakens the metal.
Basement Flooding
A properly working gutter system is designed to direct all water away from your roof and into the landscaping around your house. However, if it’s too old or too damaged, water can seep into the foundations of your home, eventually flooding your basement. If you ever notice water pooling in whenever there’s heavy rain outside, chances are your gutters could be the main culprit.
Finding a Roofer
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call a local roofing company. Look for one who specializes in professional gutter installation to ensure the gutters are properly placed. You can ask your neighbors for any recommendations, or if you want, you can also contact your homeowner association to inquire if they know a reputable roofer.
You can also look for them online. Try reading their reviews to see how other people perceive them. Once you’ve listed down a few of the local roofers you’ve found, call them to schedule a consultation. Compare their rates and choose what’s right for your budget.
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