Brrrr, it’s cold in North Carolina today! Many homeowners and renters might be wondering what happens if their gutters freeze. What happens if your gutters fill with ice? Can they still work properly? Today, we’re going to address some frequently asked questions about gutters. This post is part 1 – be on the lookout for part 2 soon.
When Was the Gutter Invented?
Water channeling technology has been in use for thousands of years. Romans brought the earliest rain gutters to Britain around 50 AD. The technology was re-introduced by the Normans after an invasion in 1066; wooden gutters were featured on famous structures like the Tower of London.
The first gutters were made of clay and stone. Later rain gutters were made of wood and lined with lead. The modern iron gutter was developed by Joseph Bazalgette in 1849 as part of a greater sewer system for the city of London. This system kept moisture away from houses, directed sewage away from the river, and greatly increased the health of the local population.
How Long Do Gutters Last?
Steel and aluminum gutters last around 20 years. If treated well, copper gutters can last up to 50 years. These are expected lifespans, but you should replace your gutters whenever they show obvious signs of wear and damage.
Old gutters start to display signs of rust and structural weakness. You might notice warped metal, chipped paint, holes, leaky joints, sagging, and splits along the ridges. On a rainy day, inspect your gutters to see if the water is flowing smoothly through the channels and away from your home.
Can Gutters Be Repaired?
Gutters can be repaired in many circumstances. Small holes can be patched with a material similar to the original gutter. Joints can be reconnected to prevent leaks. Sagging gutters can be supported to better hold the weight of rainwater.
Whether a gutter can be repaired depends on the amount of rust damage and the structural integrity of the metal. A professional repairman will be able to inspect your gutters and determine if they should be fixed or replaced. Small leaks can be fixed, but if there is extensive damage, it’s usually cheaper to install a new gutter.
At Alamance Insulation and Gutters, we’ve got all your insulation and gutter needs covered. Serving areas in central North Carolina such as Greensboro, Burlington, Mebane, Hillsborough, and High Point, we provide excellent services and products to our loyal customers. One service we offer is installing gutters. There are many questions when it comes to installing and cleaning gutters, and generally making sure you’ve chosen the right gutters for your home. If you have questions about your gutters, please don’t hesitate to contact Alamance Insulation and Gutters. We’re happy to help!