Starting to notice a leak in your gutters? Or that a tree branch has damaged them? Here are 5 big signs that it’s time for a gutter replacement!
If your gutters don’t function as they should, the water they usually collect goes straight to the ground around your home. This water can seep into the foundation of your home causing serious and irreparable damage. But, how can you know when your gutters aren’t working? Also, when do they need replacing rather than cleaning?
Here are 5 big signs that it’s time for a gutter replacement.
- Gutter Cracks and Splits
When you clean out your gutters, make sure to look out for small cracks. While these may not seem like much, they quickly become bigger problems that can lead to significant leaks. Over time, these leaks will damage the foundation of your home, leading to irreparable damage. This is especially true if you live in a part of the country where temperatures go below freezing. As water freezes, it turns to ice and expands inside the crack in your gutters.
- Gutter Rust
Depending on the material of your gutters, they may rust over time. Some homeowners assume that because their gutters are in galvanized steel this can’t happen. But, as their protective layers peel, the water eats away at the metal. To find out if your gutters are rusting, look out for orange spots. These are especially prominent in the areas where your gutters join your house. As soon as you see signs of rust, you must replace your gutters to avoid further damage.
- The Smell of Mold and Mildew in Your Home
As mentioned above, your gutters protect the foundation and structure of your home. If you start to notice pools of water around your home, this could be a sign that your gutters aren’t functioning as they should. Another sign is the sudden smell of mold or mildew. If this is the case, your problem may be bigger than you think. This could mean that there is already mold growing in the structural foundation of your home.
- Sagging Gutters
When gutters become too heavy they sag. This could be a sign that they need a good cleaning because they’re full of debris. But, if they’re full of water it can also be a sign that they need replacing altogether. In severe cases, your gutters may pull away from the rest of the house. Either way, there is a strong chance that your gutters aren’t working as intended.
- Peeling Paint on Gutters
Many types of gutters come with a protective coating that helps them withstand harsh weather conditions. If you see flecks of paint peeling off, this could be a sign that the water or ice is making its way through the protective layer on your gutters.
At Alamance Insulation and Gutters, we’re a leader in the insulation and home performance industries. Serving customers throughout North Carolina, from Greensboro, Burlington, Elon and Mebane to Durham and Raleigh, we can help with all your insulation and gutter needs.