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Gutters play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of a building and protecting it from various problems caused by rainwater. Their primary function is to collect rainwater from the roof and direct it away from the foundation of the house. This helps prevent water damage to the walls, basement, and landscaping. Gutters also help prevent erosion by controlling the flow of water and reducing the risk of water pooling around the property.
When gutters malfunction or are not properly maintained, they can lead to a host of issues. Clogged or damaged gutters can result in water overflow, leading to water seepage into the foundation, causing cracks and structural damage. Additionally, overflowing gutters can cause water to drip onto windows, causing damage to the frames and potentially leading to costly repairs. Inadequate gutter systems can also contribute to the formation of ice dams in colder climates, which can damage the roof and lead to leaks. The Brothers can help make sure that your gutter system is well maintained and perform gutter repair when necessary to ensure your gutters continue to provide optimal protection to your home.
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How to Know When You Need Gutter Repair
The term “old gutters” is relative depending on varying factors, so age may not be the best way to determine if a repair or replacement is needed. It may be time to call The Brothers if your gutters have:
- Gaps: Your gutters should not have large gaps between the segments or between the gutter and the house.
- Cracks or fractures: If there is a visible cut in your gutters, then water will leak out onto your house or fascia. Any extra precipitation will not be directed away from your home’s facade. Also, small cracks will turn into large fractures, creating even greater problems for your entire drainage system in the future.
- Sagging or pulling away: If your gutters are sagging or pulling away from the house, it is a sign that they are not properly attached and need repair or replacement.
- Peeling paint or rust: If you notice peeling paint or rust on your gutters, it may be a sign that they are not functioning properly and need repair or replacement.
- Water damage marks: Water damage marks on the exterior of your home or on the ground near the foundation may indicate that your gutters are not properly directing water away from your home.
- Erosion in landscape or mulch beds: If you notice erosion in your landscape or mulch beds, it may be a sign that your gutters are not properly directing water away from your home.
- Cracking or upheaval of sidewalks, patios, driveways, and stairs: This can sometimes be a sign that water is not being properly directed away from your home.
- Rotting deck boards, windowsills, garage doors, and regular doors below where gutters are, or should be: This may be a sign that water is not being properly directed away from your home.
- Mildew or mold growth: If you notice mildew or mold growth on the exterior of your home, it may be a sign that your gutters are not properly directing water away from your home.
- Unexplained nails or screws: If you find nails or screws in your yard next to the roofing of your house, this could mean the gutter is working itself loose. Replace the section of gutter that is coming loose in order to keep your system safe.
- Standing water: Standing water means there is some sort of blockage either in the gutter or even in the downspout. Even though replacing them is not hard, if screws continue to loosen, this is a clear indication that your gutter needs to be renewed.
- Seam stress: Leaks and separations are common at the seams where two horizontal sections meet. Both types of failure eventually lead to any number of undesirable outcomes, whether outside the home or indoors. Though gutter seams can sometimes be repaired, extensive cracking is a reason to consider a replacement.
A gutter system that is properly installed and maintained by regular gutter cleanings or maintenance or protected with gutter guards should last up to 30 years. Gutters that have not been properly maintained usually fail between 10 and 15 years.
If you are experiencing any of the following warning signs, please call us to schedule your gutter repair or Request a Quote Online. Our professionals can help to determine whether you need just a gutter repair or if your gutter system needs to be replaced.