Your gutters are normally the first line of defense your home has against Mother Nature—and as a homeowner, you probably know firsthand just how unexpected damage to your house can be. However, damage that results from failing gutters can often be mitigated if you know what to look for. Continue reading to learn about a few signs that often indicate your gutter system is on its last leg, and why it might be time to consult with a team of pros about gutter replacement.
1. You’re Noticing a Bad Odor
When leaves and other forms of natural debris fill up your gutters, it will start to decay, leaving you with a nasty smell. This rotting foliage might lead to birds, mice, and other unwanted pests nesting in your gutters, causing further blockage and adding to the odor with their waste.
2. Water Is Spilling Over the Edges
A sure sign of a clogged gutter is your very own waterfall cascading down from the top of your home during (or after) rainfall. An obstruction in the gutter can force water over the sides of your gutters, and this water can certainly damage the foundation of your home.
3. Your Gutters Are Sagging
Gutters are designed to handle flowing water, meaning that when the weight of debris, shingle granules, pine needles, leaves, and even critter nests is added, your gutters can lose their form and start bending, sagging, or pulling away from your home. Any sort of damage or warping to the gutters will lessen their effectiveness.
4. Your Home’s Siding Is Stained
Stains on your home’s siding may be a sign of standing water in your gutters. Stagnant water can cause damage to the fascia boards behind the gutters, as well as the shingles on your roof. Once this water infiltrates your home’s outermost layers, it isn’t purely an aesthetic issue; foundational damage is almost inevitable.
5. There Is Unintended Plant Growth
Along with leaves, twigs, and branches, seeds and sproutlings can end up in your gutter system. With enough dirt and moisture, this can actually lead to plants growing inside your gutter system. Needless to say, all of this plant life will block, weigh down, and contribute to the deterioration of your whole system.
If you cannot remember the last time you cleaned your gutters, chances are, they’re overdue for some tender loving care. And if you’d rather not get up on the ladder yourself to take care of things, don’t hesitate to contact a team of professionals for assistance.
About Platinum Gutters
The team here at Platinum Gutters has been helping homeowners all around Dallas and the surrounding metroplex for over 15 years, offering a wide range of gutter maintenance and installation services. If you have any questions about the article or you’d like to get in touch with us to ask about our services or schedule an estimate, please visit us online or call today for further information.
Tarrant County Telephone: (817) 993-4237.
Dallas/Denton/Collin County Telephone: (972) 346-1590.