Close-up of a Clean Gutter

Are your gutters looking a little worse for wear this year as you reach to clean them out? The gutters are an important component of your roof and home. They keep all of that precipitation from pooling along the roof and near the foundation of your house. So if they are in rough shape, they should never be ignored. If you’re unsure about when it’s time to upgrade your gutters, here are some signs to look out for that will tell you it’s time!

They have extensive cracks and holes that are beyond repair

Hairline cracks or small holes may form along the gutters, in which case they can be fixed by applying a layer of sealing putty. But if the cracks are large and running extensively throughout the eaves troughs, then they are most likely beyond the stage of repair. Cracks may seem like an insignificant problem, but they allow precipitation to fall along the structure and foundation of the home. And over time, this can affect the foundation and cause water damage to your walls and the basement floor.

They are sagging or tearing away from your home

The eavestroughs can start to pull away from the side of the house after years of enduring abuse from the weather and weight of snow and ice. And with the long exposure to the elements, they can become brittle. As they begin to sag and pull away from the roof, sometimes they can simply be reattached. However, if they are old and reaching the end of their lifespan, they can become too worn to reattach and stay in place. This is always a sign that a replacement is necessary.

You notice rust, peeling paint, or corroding areas in and around gutters

If you notice any signs of rust or corrosion, wood rot, or even peeling paint along your home and areas surrounding the gutters, this can be caused by gutter water back-splashing or overflowing, which allows water to run along the exterior of your home.  When signs such as these appear, it’s time to act fast and upgrade those gutters immediately!

The gutters along your home may seem like nothing much to worry about or even pay much attention to. But they play an important role in protecting your home against the onslaught of water damage. And when they begin to show signs of wear and tear, it’s important to recognize them so that you can act fast and avoid having any minor issues fester into much larger ones.

If it’s time for your gutters to be upgraded, give us a call. We have qualified technicians who can provide fast and efficient service to ensure your roof and home are protected.