Gutters serve the important function of diverting water away from your home, preventing costly damage and keeping your siding and foundation in good working order. With regular maintenance, gutters can last for many years. But if theyre beginning to show signs of wear, it may be time to repair or replace them. These are a few things to look out for.

Are your gutters sagging?

If you see your gutters leaning or pulling away from your house, dont wait to call a gutter repair pro. When its caught early, its usually a simple fix its often a broken spike or hanger causing the issue. Repairing the hardware prevents more serious problems, like a rotting fascia board or complete collapse. A pro can set things right in no time, and they can also inspect your gutters to see if theres a larger issue that needs attention.

Do you see any leaks?

If your gutters are cleaned out and you still notice water escaping, you probably have a leak. Dont worry - its generally not a complicated or pricey repair. If you see the leak at a joint between sections, you can reseal it. If you notice a damaged or cracked spot, you can patch it. Keep an eye on the area for additional leaks in the future, as the repairs may create a weak spot and invite a recurring problem.

Do you notice visible damage?

There are early signs of gutter damage that can help you stay one step ahead of the problem. For example, if you see peeling paint or orange flecks, it might mean theres standing water. If there are water marks or water damage beneath your gutters, thats a likely sign that water is escaping. Finally, if you see mildew or pooling water near your foundation, thats another symptom of a problem. If you notice any of these issues, you should call in an expert to help figure out where exactly the problem is, and how to fix it.

Do you clean your gutters regularly?

Cleaning your gutters once or twice a year - usually in spring and fall - is a great first line of defense against issues like debris buildup and clogging that can cause bigger problems. If you have a lot of trees, hedges and bushes around your home, you may need to clear out your gutters more frequently - and dont forget about your downspout, as a blocked downspout can cause issues, too.

If youre interested in additional protection against debris build-up, consider installing a gutter guard. While theres no such thing as maintenance-free gutters, a guard can assist with minimizing build-up, especially if you have large trees around your house.

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Don't wait too long to fix your gutters - The Union Leader

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May 18, 2020 at 10:43 pm by Mr HomeBuilder
Category: Gutter Cleaning