You probably don’t even think about your gutters unless something goes wrong. We get it, there’s already so much to deal with as a homeowner. However, if you notice any of these signs, you should get a professional out ASAP to see if you will need roof and gutter repair. According to Angi, most gutters will last 20 years with regular maintenance. If something goes wrong, addressing it quickly and efficiently is key to ensuring your gutters last their full lifespan. Here are five common signs that you will need gutter repair or replacement.
6 Signs You Need Gutter Repair Services
1. Peeling Paint or Rust
If your gutters are rusty, that is a clear sign that you need repairs. Rust will eat away at the metal and produce holes, which will compromise your gutter’s ability to do its job properly. If you see your paint is peeling, that is another sign that there may be a problem either already happening or happening soon. By getting a professional roofing or gutter technician out to the property, you’ll be able to know how extensive the damage is and what can be done to fix it. It’s always better to get the expert out early before the problem becomes more costly and time-consuming.
2. Leaky Gutters
If your gutters are already leaking, whether by rust or damage from branches and such, you’ll need a professional to use special sealing agents to plug the hole. You may opt to get completely new gutters which will give your home years of service without extensive problems. A leaking gutter is serious, as it may cause your home’s paint to peel, or your window and door frames to rot if left untouched. Anytime you see water running down the outside of the downspout, or you see it running out the bottom of the gutter instead of flowing through the downspout, you’ll need to have a repair job done.
3. Standing Water
If you are seeing puddles around the foundation of your home, that is another sign that a professional is needed. It can be from downspouts not being effective or your gutters not doing their job. Water should run away from the home, but if the downspout isn’t angled right or is not long enough, this may not occur. When water collects like that, it can lead to soil erosion, mold issues, or even crack your home’s foundation.
4. Sagging Gutters
Another sign you need roof and gutter repair is gutter sag. If they’re sagging in the middle, then they’re collecting water instead of allowing it to flow. This means that excess weight is being held by your gutters, and they aren’t properly moving water away from your home. If left sagging for too long, the weight may make your gutters start to pull away. This will cause them to eventually break completely.
5. Unfastened Gutters
When your gutters start to pull away, it’s a sign that the hangers are now unfastened and not secured to the fascia boards of your home, or they aren’t positioned correctly. The water will run down your home and may pool in the gutter. Gutters pulling away not only shows a problem with the system itself, but they can cause even more damage to your home and foundation. This may lead to mold, which is bad for your home’s integrity as well as your health.
6. Mold or Water Damage
If you see any discoloration on the downspout, fascia, or the home’s exterior, those are signs of water damage. You should get the gutters inspected and checked for damage or dysfunction as quickly as possible. Mold is also a sign that the gutters aren’t working as they should, especially when in the basement or around the top of the exterior wall. Gutters can carry this moisture and increase the chances of mold and allergen growth, making your home unsafe. With thorough maintenance and upkeep, your gutters can stay working.
The best thing that a homeowner can do is to have scheduled maintenance on their gutters and downspouts so that any small problems don’t become bigger ones. A technician can make sure that your gutters are safe, attached, without clogs or build-up, and generally not a risk to your home. If you believe you need roof and gutter repair, or are seeing questionable things and just want a good opinion on what is going on, give Top Team Roofing and Construction a call today. We’re here for you.
