Signs You Need New Gutters
Maintaining the gutters is most likely not on anybody’s list of favorite things. However, this mundane task is crucial to preserve the structural integrity of your home. Maybe you or your spouse clear gutters of leaves every now and then, or maybe you’ve done a good job of providing them with regular maintenance. Regardless of the circumstances, at some point, you’ll have to replace them.
What is the Life Expectancy of Gutters?
The life expectancy of gutters will vary depending on the materials used to make them. Galvanized steel gutters can last up to 20 years, while copper ones can last up to 50 years. However, a lack of maintenance can shorten that lifespan.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Gutters
While the gutters are only a small portion of your house, when it’s time to replace them, you’ll notice signs all over your home. The most common obvious examples have to do with the gutters themselves:
- Broken gutter fasteners
- Rust on the gutters
- Sagging gutters
- Cracks on their surface
In addition, you may notice issues with your home’s base, structure, landscape, and paint:
- Peeling paint on your home’s sidings
- Discoloration on exterior walls
- Eroding landscape
- Pooled water at the base of your home
To add insult to injury, you may notice a bug infestation around your home, as broken gutters result in additional moisture, which is a prime breeding ground for insects.
Since faulty gutters can cause extensive problems all over your home, make sure you inspect them every now and then. Walk around your house and inspect them for signs of rusting, sagging, or holes. Also inspect the downspouts to ensure there isn’t any debris clogging it. Do this before and after it rains, to fully determine if they’re working properly. If they seem to be in good condition and working, but water is still spilling over, you may want to install additional gutters.
Get a Free Quote Today!
Preserve your home’s structural integrity and save money long-term by letting us help you. At Allied Siding and Windows, we’ve been proudly serving Houston, Austin, and Dallas for over 30 years. Let us inspect your home and conduct a comprehensive gutter assessment. Contact us for more information about our services or stop by one of our showrooms!