Common Gutter Problems You Should Know About

Your home’s gutters are its first defense against heavy rains that can flood your basement or crawlspace. Rainwater can also destroy the windows, walls and eaves as the excess liquid beats against almost invisible cracks and slips inside. To keep the water away from your house’s exterior surfaces, gutters catch the rain and divert it safely away. When the system breaks down, you may need a gutter replacement. Here are some common gutter problems you should know.

• Sagging

Your gutters are created to slope at an angle that allows rainwater to move toward the drainage area. Sometimes the hinges come loose, or an object can hit the tubing to cause an area to sag. When this occurs, the water begins pooling in the sagging area and won’t drain properly. As the liquid continues to build, it overflows the tubing against your home.

• Blockages

Trees and flying debris can easily cause blockages in your gutters as the falling leaves, floating papers and dirt can fall into your gutters. Even a tiny bit of soil can act as a nice plant bed for stray weed seeds and removing the plants from gutter tubing can become a problem. Strong root systems can break through the tubes and result in the need for a gutter replacement.

• Corrosion

Gutters don’t last forever, so if you see signs of corrosion, tubing cracks or broken joints, contact a professional team to replace the gutters before the serious rainy season begins. Newer materials of UPVC, steel, and vinyl can last much longer than older tubing, and therefore, will keep your home safer and dryer for many years to come.

If you notice any problems with sagging, joint corrosion or cracks in your gutters, contact a contractor to see if your home needs gutter replacement sections. Taking time for a yearly home maintenance inspection of the tubes can save you hundreds of dollars in future repairs.