5 signs that it’s time to replace your gutters

Good homeowners know that regular inspections of their house’s exterior can keep important things in good repair. An especially crucial area for homeowners to pay attention to is the gutters. Your home’s gutters keep debris from collecting on your roof and causing damage. They also direct rainwater away from your home and its foundation where it could create the need for costly repairs. Gutters that don’t function as they are intended can lead to serious problems, so it’s best to inspect them often. If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time to replace your home’s gutters:

1. Peeling exterior paint near your gutters 

Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause paint to peel, even exterior paint that is meant to be somewhat water-resistant. Therefore, if you notice peeling paint around your gutters, it could be a sign that they are leaking and need attention. 

2. Visible cracks or chips 
Using sealant to fix small cracks here and there might be all right at first. However, in the long run, you will need to think about getting new gutters. The sealant won’t hold forever, and cracks tend to get larger with time. When the damage is too great, new gutters may be your best option.

3. Sagging gutters 
Gutters are designed to keep water moving and get it away from the roof and the foundation of the house. If your gutters are sagging, it will interrupt the flow of the water and could result in pooling. Standing water will cause damage to your roof and the exterior of your home. If that water begins to spill over, you could be faced with foundational damage as well. When you spot sagging, begin the process of replacing your gutters. 

4. Interior flooding 
If you have experienced a recent increase in the number of flooding incidents in your basement or ground level, it could be the result of excessive water leaking through the foundation. Damaged or malfunctioning gutters could be to blame. Examine the drainage of your gutters and if they aren’t directing water away from your foundation, it’s time to get new ones. 

5. Landscaping damage 
Whether your gutters drain over a garden bed, grass or onto your driveway, it’s a good idea to take note of the condition of the area around this exit. If you find that you frequently have to make repairs to the drainage area, it could be a sign that your gutters aren’t draining evenly due to damage. Inspect all drainage points for clogs, and if you can’t isolate the problem, you should make the investment in new gutters. 

Though gutters take up such a small part of your home’s exterior, they are vital. A broken or damaged gutter system could lead to damage that forces homeowners to pay for costly repairs. Instead of risking this with bad gutters, it is better for these individuals to invest in gutter replacements.