Your gutters work every day around the clock to protect your home from foundational damage. However, the day will come when your rain gutters or seamless gutters will fail to perform. Do you know the signs to look for when you’re in need of new gutters?
Consider this quick overview about telltale signs that your gutters are failing:
1. Cracked or Corroded
Take a look at your rain gutters from the ground. Do you notice any cracks or corroded areas? If so, this is a sign that the gutters aren’t performing up to par.
When your gutters are cracked, it allows for rain to seep out in areas that can cause problems later. The leaking water can create pools in your yard, ruin your landscaping, or result in foundational damage.
When gutters are corroded, they are essentially falling apart. Aluminum gutters are subject to corrosion, which is a state where the material is eaten away. Once this process occurs, your gutters are at the point of no return.
2. Stress and Sagging at the Seams
Do you notice that your gutters are stressed or sagging? This can happen when layers of debris add up to substantial weight. Clogged gutters that are left unattended become too heavy and cause sagging and stress at the seams.
Another reason why gutters sag is because the material is beginning to warp. Gutter materials can change from exposure to heat and cold.
3. Wood Rot on Exterior Trim
Take a close look at the trim around your windows and doors. Do you see any signs of wood rot?
If exterior trim is starting to peel and rot, this can be a sign of a failing gutter system. The water is leaking in isolated areas that is affecting window or door trim. When you find wood rot, stop to inspect your gutters for cracks and corrosion.
4. Too Much Mildew
While your exterior trim can rot, there is another element to look for with failing gutters: mildew.
Mildew thrives in damp areas that don’t have a lot of direct sunlight. When your gutters are working properly, the downspout will carry water away from your home by roughly 6 feet. If moisture accumulates too close to the foundation, you will find mildew growing in areas such as the basement. Eventually, it will become quite unsightly and start to smell.
Do You Need New Rain Gutters?
If you suspect that your rain gutters are failing, gutter replacement might be in order. Gutter protection can also provide the maintenance you need to keep the gutters in working order. Contact us today to learn more.