It’s raining outside and you’ve noticed an impromptu waterfall over the side of your gutters. Now what? This might be a sign you need to replace your gutters, or at minimum maintenance them. Did you know the majority of foundation, basement, and mold issues that occur in the lower levels of a home come from gutter disrepair? It’s true, and in today’s blog our experts with Legacy Group Exteriors will discuss gutter damage, and how to tell when it’s time to preventatively replace your gutters.
So, Where Are My Gutters?
Gutters are attached right at the base of the roof. They are often made of aluminum, vinyl, zinc, steel, or copper, and their function is to divert flowing water and ice away from the foundation of a home. Without gutters in place water will easily pool around the home, and then corrode through the cement foundation. This often results in cracks. Cracks decrease home value and often cause a precarious situation for the floors of the main living area.
What Kind of Damage Can Gutters Experience?
Over time gutters will wear down from exposure to the minerals within rainwater, animal activity, and heavy wind endurance. The most common damage noted for gutters that will lead to the need for new guttering include:
- Gutter clogs from foliage:
- These result in standing water, or water overflow, which will crack and wear down the foundation of the home. Backsplashing is also common with clogged gutters, and will result in peeling paint and rust stains on the siding of your home.
- Gutter cracks, or dents resulting in leaks:
- Leaky gutters often lead to moisture in the basement and mold growth. Certain types of mold are actually toxic for humans to breathe in. So, it’s important to take mold seriously if seen in your basement.
- Gutter misalignment due to wind exposure, or rusted/worn hinges:
- Gutters will sag away from the house and hinges/nails will often be found in the yard below them.
All of the above are telltale signs that it is time for new guttering. If any of these damages are left untreated, your home will not retain it’s value through time. It’s important to pay attention to the small details with home maintenance, because it becomes expensive when preventative maintenance turns into reactionary fixes.
Is New Guttering Expensive?
It certainly can be expensive to replace any key part of the functional aspects of a home. However, gutter replacement doesn’t have to be an expensive process. Preventative maintenance is the best way to prevent gutter damage. Fall and Spring are the best times of year to have your gutters inspected for damages.
Are You Needing To Replace Your Gutters? Call Legacy Group Exteriors
Home repairs can be frustrating, or exciting. We understand this at Legacy Group Exteriors, we can install your new guttering for you, and provide a hassle-free experience. With a customer-centered approach, the highest-quality materials, and an eye for detail in our process, we’ve built a reputation rooted in excellence. Contact us today for more details.