Gutters are essential to protecting your home from water damage. Properly working gutters help to divert water away from your home and its foundation, protecting its structural integrity. When gutters aren’t working properly, moisture can accumulate near the foundation and make its way into your basement, causing mildew growth and other problems. As the first line of defense against rain and precipitation, and because water can be incredibly destructive, it’s important to have properly functioning gutters that will protect your home. Here are five signs you need replacement gutters.
1. Cracks, Gaps, or Fractures
Small cracks in your gutters may not seem like an issue, but those small cracks can turn into larger fractures, which can then lead to greater problems with your entire gutter and drainage system in the future.
If there is a visible gap or cut in your gutters, water will leak onto and down the side of your house and precipitation will not be directed away from your home. This can damage fascia boards behind the gutter, shingles above the gutter, and your home’s foundation.
2. Peeling Paint
If you notice peeling paint or orange flecks on your gutters or side of your home, it’s likely the beginning stages of rust and can be an indicator that water is present on an ongoing basis. This means water is not being removed by the gutter properly, or cracks or other damage to your gutters may be present.
Check your gutter and exterior siding for any paint that has bubbled or peeled away due to excess moisture. If you find a section, check the condition of the nearest gutter. If peeling extends beyond a few small areas, you may need replacement gutters.
3. Pooling Water or Mildew
Gutters are designed to keep water flowing away from your home. Pools of water or areas of mildew growth near your home’s foundation, or even inside your basement, can indicate the gutters are not working properly. While this can sometimes be due to a clog, it can also be caused by a defect in the gutter system.
Because ongoing pooling water can cause foundation damage and other problems, some of which can be very costly to repair, it’s important to replace the gutters immediately to avoid additional damage.
4. Water Damage or Water Marks
If it hasn’t rained recently but there’s water damage or water marks underneath the gutter, this indicates leaking or overflowing water is escaping the gutter. Ongoing damage can include rot, water-damaged drywall, or issues with your exterior wood trim elements. It can also damage your soffit and fascia board.
Again, while this can be caused by a clog, it can also be a sign the gutter needs replaced.
5. Sagging
One of the easiest ways to tell you need replacement gutters is if your gutters are sagging. Gutters should never sag or pull away from your home, and if they are, it can indicate they are full of water and too heavy. This can be because the gutter is blocked or draining improperly, or that the gutter system isn’t appropriate for the home. Sagging gutters will eventually collapse, so replacing them right away can help prevent serious damage to your home.
Contact Nick Rivers for Replacement Gutters and More
If you notice any of the above problems, or have general questions or concerns about your gutters, contact Nick Rivers today.
Nick Rivers serves Anne Arundel County and Howard County, offering replacement gutters, gutter cleaning, repair, and maintenance services, plus home power washing. Call 443-336-7278 or fill out our online contact form and someone will be in touch as soon as possible.