Keeping your gutters in good condition is important to protect your home from water damage. They help shield your roof, siding, and foundation. However, when gutters begin to deteriorate, they lose their ability to effectively channel rainwater, which can result in expensive repairs later on. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to spot the signs of failing gutters so you can address them promptly with gutter repairs or replacement.
Visible Sagging or Separation
A clear sign your gutters are failing is sagging or sections pulling away from the house. This can happen due to heavy rain, blockages, or poor installation. If you see sagging or gaps, it’s important to get them inspected. These problems prevent gutters from properly directing water away from your home.
Rust and Corrosion
Although modern gutters often feature rust-resistant coatings, older gutters or those affected by harsh weather can still develop rust and corrosion over time. If you notice orange spots, holes, or significant corrosion on your gutters, it’s a sign they are deteriorating. Rust weakens the gutters, potentially causing leaks that can damage your home’s exterior and foundation.
Pooling Water Near Your Foundation
Take a moment to check how water flows around your foundation after a storm. Gutters are meant to direct water away to prevent pooling. If you see standing water or signs of erosion near your foundation, it’s a clear sign that there might be an issue with the gutter installation. This can lead to foundation damage, basement flooding, and soil erosion around your home.
Paint Peeling on or Around Your Gutters
Another sign of failing gutters is peeling paint or visible water damage around your gutter system. Leaking or overflowing gutters can cause water to run down the sides of your home, leading to paint peeling and further damage. This may also point to more serious problems, such as rot or mold, which can harm your home’s structure and pose health risks.
Overflowing During Rainstorms
If your gutters overflow during rainstorms without any visible clogs, it could mean they’re not the right size for your home or aren’t working properly. Overflowing can happen due to poor installation, damage, or simply wear and tear. Continuous overflow can damage your home’s exterior walls and foundation.
Ice Dam Formation in Winter
Winter presents unique challenges for gutters, particularly ice dams. These form when melted snow on a warm roof refreezes in the cold gutters. If ice dams regularly form, it could indicate that your gutters aren’t handling water runoff properly. In addition to damaging the gutters, ice dams can cause leaks that affect your roof, insulation, and interior.
Patriot Gutters LLC understands the need for sturdy and efficient gutters and gutter guards. We work with homeowners to ensure their gutters are in top condition. Call us at (405) 701-0909 or fill out our contact form to schedule an inspection. We serve clients in Oklahoma City, OK, and surrounding areas.