There’s nothing like a heavy downpour or a storm to make you appreciate just how important gutters are in protecting your home from water damage.
They are a crucial part of any home’s exterior, as they effectively divert water away from your foundation!
However, like any other component of your home, gutters can deteriorate over time, lose their effectiveness, and eventually need to be replaced.
There are a few common signs to look out for, such as cracks, breaks at the seams, or sagging, if you notice any of these, it may be time to consider gutter replacement.
However, there are less common and less obvious signs that will also warrant new gutters.
We’ll cover all of them in this article! Here are 8 signs your gutters need to be replaced.
Visible Damage To The Gutter
Let’s start off with some of the easier-to-notice signs that you can spot just by looking up at your gutters.
Visible damage to your gutters is often the first indication that they may be past their prime and require replacement. There are a few telltale signs to look out for, like cracking, and they can all lead to some very costly consequences if left unaddressed.
Cracks
Cracks are clear indicators that your eavestrough needs attention. This issue can develop over time due to weather conditions, aging materials, or regular wear & tear.
When left unaddressed, even small cracks can grow larger, eventually causing the gutters to leak and fail in effectively diverting water away from your home.
It is essential to inspect your gutters regularly for any signs of cracks.
In certain cases (like smaller cracks) you may be able to repair your gutter, but just to reiterate, smaller cracks frequently turn into larger ones. This is especially true in Alberta and other areas susceptible to extreme cold, as ice can seep into these cracks and expand.
However, in most cases, cracks on your gutter are as good a sign as they come that is time for your gutters to be replaced.
Breaks At The Seams
Gutters are often made up of sections joined together at seams, which can become weak points over time, especially at the corners!
Breaks or gaps at the seams can result in water leakage, leading to damage to your home’s roof, exterior, and foundation.
It’s crucial to keep an eye out for any signs of breaks at the seams, as early detection can save you from more extensive and costly repairs down the line.
To avoid these costly repairs, many homeowners are beginning to replace their gutters with continuous hanger systems, like the ones from Alu-Rex, to avoid the issue of seam breaks altogether.
Alu-Rex gutters are one solid piece, secured evenly along the entire length of your home, completely negating the problem of seam stress.
If that wasn’t enough, the guard on top acts as a UV shade which protects the corner sealant from direct sunlight and eliminates corner leaks!
Learn more about the continuous hanger system here.
Sagging Gutters
When gutters begin to sag or pull away from the roof, it is a warning sign that they are struggling to handle the weight of water, debris, or even ice.
This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, such as weakened fasteners, improper installation, or the gutters simply reaching the end of their lifespan.
Sagging or detached gutters cannot effectively channel water away from your home, leading to potential damage to your roof, walls, and foundation. If you notice your gutters sagging or pulling away from the roof, it’s time to take action.
You may need to repair or replace the fasteners or, in some cases, consider installing new gutters to ensure your home remains protected from water damage.
Peeling Paint
Peeling paint on or around your gutters can be more than just an aesthetic issue; it may signal underlying problems with your gutter system.
Paint plays a crucial role in protecting gutters from the elements, and when it starts to peel, it leaves the gutter material exposed and vulnerable to damage.
Peeling paint can result from a variety of factors, including poor-quality paint, improper application, or constant exposure to water due to malfunctioning gutters.
It’s essential to address peeling paint promptly, as it can lead to more significant issues if left unattended. In some cases, you may be able to repaint the affected area using high-quality, weather-resistant paint. In others, peeling paint may be your cue to replace your gutters.
Rust
Rust is a common issue that can plague metal gutters, especially those made of steel or iron. Over time, constant exposure to moisture can cause the metal to oxidize, resulting in rust formation.
Rust not only detracts from the appearance of your gutters but also compromises their structural integrity, making them more susceptible to leaks and eventual failure. The presence of rust is a clear sign that your gutter system may need replacement.
To avoid the issue of rust entirely, we advise replacing your steel or iron gutters with a non-ferrous metal like aluminum. This will ensure the longevity of not only your gutters but also your home in general.
Damage To Other Parts Of Your House To Look Out For
The foundation of your home is the bedrock of its stability and structural integrity. Your home’s foundation is also the primary concern and the main area where you’ll spot the signs your gutters need to be replaced.
Excessive water pooling around your foundation can lead to foundation cracks, settling, and even complete failure, resulting in costly repairs. To prevent foundation problems, pay close attention to the next signs of faulty gutters.
Pools Of Water, Mildew, And Mold
If you notice water pooling near the foundation of your house, this is a sure sign of faulty gutters + a huge cause for concern due to the havoc this water can wreak.
The accumulation of this water is the perfect recipe for mold and mildew growth, and prolonged exposure to standing water will weaken your home’s foundation.
To address this problem, inspect your gutters for clogs or damage, and make any necessary repairs. There is a chance that the gutter will require replacement if this is happening.
Additionally, ensure that your downspouts are directing water at least five feet away from your home’s foundation to prevent pooling and mildew growth.
Basement Flooding
To add to the previous sign, the longer water accumulates near your foundation, the more opportunity it’s given to seep into the foundation and then the basement.
A flooded basement is a nightmare, repairs will be extremely costly and the damage to personal belongings can be irreparable.
Ideally, you will catch some of the other signs before it gets to this stage, but if not, it’s important to know that a flooded basement is often the result of an inadequate gutter that needs replacement.
Soil Erosion
Soil erosion around your home can be a direct result of broken gutters. When gutters fail to direct rainwater away from your property effectively, the water can wash away topsoil, damage your landscape, and even expose your home’s foundation.
Properly functioning gutters help preserve your yard and prevent erosion by ensuring that water is channeled away from your home through downspouts.
Conclusion
Maintaining a well-functioning gutter system is crucial for the health and longevity of your home. By paying close attention to the warning signs of gutter issues, such as cracks, rust, peeling paint, mold, and water pooling, you can prevent costly repairs and protect your home from potential damage.
Regular inspections, timely maintenance, timely repairs, and replacements if necessary, are essential in safeguarding your home’s foundation, roof, walls, and landscaping.
Remember, investing in the highest-quality gutters is an investment in your home’s appearance and its long-term structural integrity. If you need gutter advice in Edmonton, give us a call!
And if there’s one key takeaway we can give you from this article, it’s this. Stay proactive in your gutter maintenance and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-protected home!
