For most homeowners, gutters are not a top-of-mind concern. However, gutters are critical in redirecting water from your roof and preventing costly damage to your home. Gutters ensure water doesn’t damage your roof, fascia boards, or foundation.  

If it’s been over ten years since you’ve replaced your gutters, you’ll want to start inspecting them regularly. We rounded up seven of the most obvious signs that your gutters need repair or replacement. You can easily walk the perimeter of your home and inspect your gutters for the following warning signs.

1. Cracks or Splits

Small cracks or splits in your gutter might not seem like a big issue, but they will grow larger and may do so more quickly than you think. If you don’t fix cracks in the corners or end caps, water leaking through can soon cause further damage to:

  • Existing gutters
  • Foundation 
  • Fascia boards
  • Shingles 

These tiny cracks can cost thousands of dollars to repair if left alone for too long! It’s best to address any issues promptly.

2. Sagging

You don’t need to be on a ladder to clearly observe this, making it one of the simplest signs that your gutters need to be repaired or replaced. If your gutters begin to sag in some areas, this can mean the gutters are being weighed down by water. A full gutter indicates that the gutter system may not be suitable for the house, that it is draining poorly, or that obstruction is being caused by debris. In any case, it’s best to have them evaluated by a professional (which is usually free!).

3. Rust

Gutters that show signs of rust are not performing optimally. Water will begin to flow through rust spots, rendering your gutters useless. Even small rust spots should be repaired or replaced immediately, as rust spots will quickly grow.

4. Pulling Away from the Fascia

If your gutters are starting to separate from your home – it’s time to take action. Water is one of the most destructive forces to a home. If your gutters are beginning to pull away at the seam, this could be due to a clog from improperly draining gutters or wood rot in your home’s fascia boards (likely caused by a gutter issue).

5. Gutter Spikes in Your Lawn

Another sign your gutters need to be repaired or replaced is if you find large nails, also known as gutter spikes, near your home’s foundation. These spikes could indicate that your gutters are no longer securely attached to your home. You should have an expert inspect your fascia boards and gutter system to identify the root cause of the issue.

6. Mildew or Pools of Water

Checking your gutters after a rain storm is an excellent test of their effectiveness. If you notice large puddles of water or mildew around your foundation or siding – this could indicate a gutter issue. Poorly draining gutters can easily cause a costly foundation issue. Proper gutter maintenance is vital to maximizing the useful life of your gutters.

7. Peeling Paint

Your gutter’s paint is made to resist everyday wear and tear over the years. Peeling paint or orange flecks can signal the start of rust. They are also signs that water is continuously present. This might mean that the gutter is failing to transfer water from the roof or that there are cracks or other issues.

If you’ve noticed one of these warning signs – don’t wait to contact a professional. Even a seemingly minor issue can quickly cause extensive damage to your home. AIC Roofing and Construction has assisted over 10,000 home and business owners in the Lexington, Louisville, and central Kentucky areas. We are experts in roofing and gutter systems. If you’re having an issue – contact us today!

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