Your gutter system is an important part of your house, which is why you need to ensure that it is working in good condition. Otherwise, you could face a lot of problems that can damage your home.
Gutters direct water away from your home’s exterior walls, doors, windows, and foundation. In turn, they will help prevent water from making its way inside. Indeed, cleaning your gutters several times a year will help prolong the life of your system; some gutters will need to be repaired or replaced eventually.
Here are five signs to determine when it’s time to replace your gutter system:
Cracks or Splits
Small cracks in the gutters may not seem like a big issue, but they can turn into big ones, and it may happen sooner than you think. Therefore, you shouldn’t put off addressing these cracks. Otherwise, they can damage your gutter system even further, to the point that they will reach your fascia boards behind the gutters, the shingles, and the foundation.
Peeled Paint
The paint on your gutter isn’t there for decorative purposes alone, but it is designed to withstand the usual wear and tear throughout the seasons. Peeling paint or orange dots on your gutter system is a powerful indicator that water is present continuously. This means that water is not being eliminated completely.
Pools of Water Around Your Home’s Foundation
If you notice pools of water or mildew near your home’s foundation, it could mean that your gutter system isn’t working in good condition anymore. The reason behind this can be as simple as a clog or something more complex. Remember, water can easily cause foundational damage, which can lead to costly, time-consuming repairs.
Water Marks Beneath the Gutters
Checking your gutters at least once a year on a sunny day is crucial. If you notice water marks or damage underneath the gutter, this could mean that leaks or water are escaping the gutter. It’s essential you have it repaired or replaced immediately because it does damage to your soffit and fascia board.
Sagging Gutters
Sagging gutters are the easiest way to tell that your gutter needs to be repaired or replaced. When gutters sag, this means that they are full of water and pulling away from the house because of the weight of the water.
Hire a Professional
You might be tempted to DIY repair or replace your gutter, but that’s not always the best thing to do. Entrusting the work to professionals will help you avoid injuries. At the same time, your professional contractor will be able to find issues that you might have missed. That way, they would be addressed immediately, which will make your life so much easier.
Finally, a professional can help protect your home against damage. As mentioned, issues with your gutter system can lead to detrimental effects in your overall home, and that’s something you don’t want to happen.
Conclusion
Now that you know these signs, having a professional inspect your gutter system is the best action to take. Don’t let gutter issues take too long; otherwise, you could face much bigger problems.
Gillespie Handyman Services offers home improvement services that will bring the best out of your property. We can take care of your gutter system and do home repairs in Ottawa should you need one. Our company serves the neighbourhoods of Barrhaven, Kanata, Nepean, and Orleans in Ottawa and Eastern Ontario. Request a quote today!