Gutters are important, we all know it. Proper installation of gutters go a long way on the value of your home. Functioning gutters direct water away from the exterior walls, windows, doors and foundation, preventing water problems inside the house. Routine maintenance should be done twice a year but eventually, over time, it will be time to replace your gutters. So how do you know when or if you need new gutters? We have a few pointers for you.
Cracking and Splitting
Cracks and splits in the joints may be solved with fittings or small repairs. Older gutters will split along the channels, resulting in spillage and an interruption of flow. Tiny cracks can become major problems. Changing temperatures in the spring and late autumn will cause problems for cracked or split gutters, creating large gaps in a matter of days.
Standing Water
Broken gutters won’t direct water away from the area and spillage collects in strange places. Water needs to drain away from your house, to avoid basement water problems and flooding in window wells or around patio doors.
Peeling Paint
Painted areas beside gutters and downspouts will often peel or flake away when with a bad gutter system. Broken gutters result in spillage and overflow, and that water deteriorates paint rapidly, this is an easy way to tell if you have issues.
Mildew
If you spot mildew on the walls or patio or around windows, doors and trim, inspect the closest gutter for clogging and blockage. This could be a result of build up in the gutters. You might have warped gutters, broken clips and cracked channels.
Rotted Shingles
Clogging and blockage triggers a back up of rain water in your gutters. This will cause shingles on the rim of your roof to rot. If there are any areas where the shingle deterioration rate seems especially fast it may be time to look into new gutters.
With a keen eye and the right knowledge, you can discover when you need new gutters. The little things now can help prevent big problems in the future.