No one likes to think about pesky maintenance tasks like cleaning out gutters. Unfortunately, neglecting tasks like these can create big headaches down the road.
If you don’t properly maintain your gutters, you can expect some serious water damage in your future. After all, gutters have an important job to do. They direct water away from your windows, doors, exterior walls and foundation. If that water finds its way inside your home, it will make costly messes that you’ll be forced to deal with.
Most gutters need to be cleaned a few times a year. All will need to be repaired or replaced eventually. If you’re unsure about how your gutters are holding up, here are 5 signs that you need to jump on your gutter problem right away and call a professional roofing company.
5 Signs that Your Gutters Need Immediate Attention
(1) You Notice Cracks or Splits
While a small crack won’t do a lot of damage right away, you can bet it will only get bigger. And that’s a problem, not just for your gutters but for the fascia boards, shingles, and foundation underneath them. Keep an eye on small cracks and call a professional sooner rather than later.
(2) You See Peeling Paint or Rust Around Your Gutters
The paint on your gutter is pretty tough – tough enough to withstand wear and weather. However, if you notice peeling paint or bits of rust, it’s time to call someone. That’s an indication that water is leaking continuously.
(3) Water Pools Around Your Home’s Foundation
Gutters are supposed to keep water away from the foundation of your home. If you notice pools of water or mildew near your foundation, it may be a sign that your gutters are not doing what they’re supposed to. There’s also a chance that this pooling water is damaging your foundation, which can lead to costly repairs. Time to call a pro.
(4) Your Gutters are Sagging or Pulling Away from the House
This is one of the easiest ways to tell if you need a repair or replacement. Your gutters should never pull away from your home’s exterior. If they sag or bend, it’s a sign that they’re not draining properly and are pulling away from the exterior due to the weight. A gutter that’s blocked or full of standing water needs immediate attention.
(5) You See Water Marks or Damage Beneath Your Gutters
This is another one that’s fairly easy to check. You should do a quick check at least once a year to make sure there aren’t any water marks under the gutters on your home. If you see signs of leaks or overflowing, it may be time to call someone before water damages your soffit or fascia board.
Do You Need an Inspection?
Our experts at CWC don’t just do roofing; we’re also happy to repair or replace your gutters. We offer free inspections, so don’t hesitate to give us a call!