Should I Fix or Replace my Gutters?

Although homeowners don’t often think about gutters, they represent one of the most important components of the home. By collecting and redirecting water, they keep interiors and exteriors dry and attractive.

When homeowners choose gutters in the right styles and colors, they also accentuate a home’s outer beauty. When gutters cease to operate as they should, the effects on a home can spell disaster.

​Budget-conscious homeowners may hesitate to replace faulty gutters, opting instead to repair them. But how does one know when repair is no longer an affordable or practical option?

How to Inspect Gutters for Damage and Wear
If you suspect your gutters may need repair or replacement (but aren’t sure which,) try the following techniques to make the right choice:

• Observe them while it’s raining. Like a secret shopper, homeowners who watch their gutters at work can see firsthand whether water drains adequately or pools around the house.
• Look for gaps. Do you notice places where nails are sticking out from the edge of the gutter? When this occurs, it means gutters are slowly separating themselves from the house, which can present a significant problem.
• Examine the downspout and splash block. These important components, when functioning correctly, route water safely away from the home. The downspout is an extension of the gutter running down the side of the house, while the splash block is a wedge of plastic or concrete at the bottom. Both should be firmly attached and in good condition.

Warning Signs You Should Replace Your Gutters
As you inspect your gutters, you may observe one or more indicators they are no longer performing adequately. Signs you or a professional should install brand-new gutters include:

• Pieces of gutter are falling off. Whether they fall on their own or get a little help from a strong gust of wind or a chunk of ice, a dilapidated gutter that separates from the home is one that should be replaced.
• Gutters have visible rust. Whether rust is showing up in tiny orange spots or large portions of the gutter, this is bad news for these structures. Eventually, rusty gutters will crack, leak, and become completely useless.
• The downspout or splash block is cracked or damaged. Any significant damage to either of these items requires swift repair or replacement to ensure water continues flowing away from the home.
• The soil near your home is eroded. When gutters don’t carry water far enough away from the home, it inevitably flows toward it. Eventually, the moisture wears the earth away, clearing the path for more water to get into the house and cause damage.
• Your home has interior or exterior water damage. Paint on walls and siding near gutters will become stained or discolored when gutters stop working properly.

Extensive gutter repair or replacement is a significant investment, but it will pay out dividends over time as you enjoy the benefits of fully operational gutters.

For help inspecting and repairing your gutters – or installing new ones – turn to Colorado Seamless Gutters, Inc. Our commitment to quality products and service make us a leader in our community, and we’ll provide an initial consultation free of charge.

Contact us today to schedule yours!