Omaha experiences about 94 days of precipitation every year, although those that live here will not be surprised. This means you can expect your gutters to take a beating about once every three or four days. And, with heavy storm events predicted to increase, our gutters must be up to the task.
However, if not maintained, they are susceptible to the same damage as every other exterior element on your home. Unfortunately, damaged, non-functional gutters do more than fail at redirecting water; they also can cause extensive damage to your property.
Continue reading to learn how to recognize when you need gutter repair and when it’s time to replace.
1. Sad, Sagging Gutters
When your gutters were initially installed, they were set to match the clean straight lines of your home’s exterior. If you notice that they are no longer lining up, you have sagging gutters on your hand.
There are several contributing factors to gutter sag. They usually fall into two categories: structural and maintenance. For example, some structural issues are if you have gutters that are too small and overburdened by the precipitation and debris load, or they could have been installed improperly and lack the appropriate supports.
If those problems don’t sound familiar, your sag is likely caused by gutter maintenance issues. Gutters are excellent traps for errant leaves and branches, and if you don’t clean them out at least twice yearly, they can become a starter home for your neighborhood pests. An expert-approved solution is to install gutter guards, which keep leaves and pests out while allowing the rain to flow easily through your gutters and out your downspouts.
In both cases, you may be able to amend the sagging by improving the support system. However, any work you do on your own can void a manufacturer’s warranty. Also, if your gutters have been sagging or bent for a long time, there is a chance they will be irreparably damaged.
2. Falling Apart at the Seams
Different types of gutters will have different stress points that lead to cracks, gaps, and damage. However, unless you’re working with specifically seamless gutters, most will see the lion’s share of problems arise at the juncture between two horizontal pieces. Here, it’s easy for debris to become trapped, causing the seams to separate over time.
To assess them, do a walkthrough after a rain. If you notice any dripping or leaves or dirt peeking through, your gutters have been compromised. You can do some repairs yourself, but if you notice multiple cracks or holes, it may be time for a replacement.
3. Water Damage and Wood Rot
The canary in the coal mine or your home gutters- if you prefer, is if you find evidence of water damage on the exterior of your home. This is because your gutters play an essential role in keeping your home dry. When they are not working as they should, they allow water to stream down the side of your house in heavy turrets.
Repeated exposure to that much rain is like aiming a high-powered hose at your siding; over time, it will certainly cause water damage. However, these signs are not always immediately apparent, so you must examine your home with a careful eye. You should be on the lookout for:
- Discoloration on your siding
- Bubbling, cracking or peeling of paint
- Soft, mushy wood
- Such as around your window or door surrounds
- Constant issues with indoor leaking
If you notice any of these issues, water damage could be the cause, and your gutters might be to blame. If so, you may need to replace your gutter system.
Gutters Damaged Beyond Repair? Time to Work With a Professional
There is no such thing as maintenance-free, and your gutters are no different. But if you can’t commit to the task at hand, be sure to reach out to your local gutter maintenance service to keep issues at bay. However, there comes a time when they are past the point of no return.
In this case, it’s time to hire gutter installation professionals. At Waddle Exteriors, we’ve served the Omaha, NE community for 25 years. We understand the importance of expert installation in the longevity and functionality of your gutters.
Visit our site today to use our handy online estimator tool to get started.
