You may spend a lot of money on a home security system or cameras to catch criminals eyeballing your family’s valuables, but did you ever stop to look at the unsung heroes of your home? Gutters are a crucial part of protection that every homeowner should be able to rely on throughout the year. So when your gutters are starting to show signs of wear and tear, it’s time to get them repaired or replaced.
To keep your home protected, take note of these four signs that it’s time to repair or replace your current gutter system.
Rust, Rust Everywhere
Your gutters are exposed to all sorts of weather throughout the year. Of course, this will widely vary depending on the environment you live in. If your area has to deal with a lot of rain, then hopefully you have a gutter system that reflects that. If not, you’re far more likely to experience large amounts of rust. Over time, holes and cracks will begin to appear, causing leaks to drip down the sides of your house and cause water damage.
Before you rip the entire system off though, take a moment to scrub any rust you see down with a wire brush. You can also ask a professional to take a closer look and see if they can repair it. If not, then it’s time to seek a replacement system.
Sitting Water: A Sign of Failure
Whenever it rains, water should be flowing constantly through your gutter system. Therefore, no water should be sitting idlily and not traveling towards the downspout. However, just because the water isn’t flowing doesn’t necessarily mean the system needs replacement. It could be because the gutter itself is not graded, or angled, correctly. Adjustments should be made to the grade first before assuming the entire system needs to be replaced.
Your House Has Water Damage
Gutter systems do more than simply prevent the foundation from becoming overirrigated. They also work to transport water away from the house and prevent it from sliding down the sides. If you start noticing water damage on the side of your home, it’s a sign that the gutters are either damaged or clogged with debris.
If you have a basement, don’t hesitate to examine your home further as clogged gutters are the main cause of flooding basements. Doing this will also help you prevent water from pooling around the foundation.
Broken Fasteners Leave You Vulnerable
Fasteners are the attachments that connect the different sections of your gutters together. If you have seamless gutters, then you won’t run into this issue. However, if you notice that these pieces are broken or missing, then it can affect the system’s ability to transport water. Look for screws or fasteners on the ground around your home before getting on the ladder to examine your system more closely.
Does your gutter system need a professional’s touch? If you notice any of the above signs, contact a professional gutter company so they can tell you if you need a repair or replacement system!
About Platinum Gutters
When you’ve got a team of professionals whose only goal is to make sure your home is protected, you’re guaranteed to get the gutter system you need to keep your home standing for years to come. The Idea Guys can let you know for sure if your gutters need a little help or not. You can contact them through their website to learn more.