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Is it Time to Replace Your Gutters? What to Look For

Most homeowners don’t think about their gutters that often. Sure, we clean out gutters in the fall when leaves can tend to clog them up. But other than that, we usually only see issues in our gutters when there is a significant problem. And at that point, it can be too late.

If your gutters aren’t functioning correctly, they won’t be able to direct water away from your home’s siding and foundation, which can cause water damage and major issues down the line.

Maryland is prone to harsh storms in the summer, pouring water down onto our homes. And any damage will only be compounded by debris in the fall. So, making sure your gutters are functioning properly and replacing them if they are not is as important as ever.

Here are eight signs that it is time to replace your gutters:

1. Major Leaks at the Joints

We often see gutters fail at the joints between each piece. If the issue is too big to be remedied with caulking, then it is probably time to replace your gutter system.

2. Cracking

Another way that gutters can leak is through cracks. Once you have a few cracks in your gutters, they are virtually useless. Water will run through the cracked channel, and the rest of your home can suffer.

overflowing gutters3. Overflowing

It’s not always easy to see blockages. Sometimes they are not in the main channel. But either way, water will pool, damaging your roof, which relies on proper drainage. The next time you have heavy rainfall, look out your windows and see if there are any spots where the water is overflowing from your gutters, rather than running down the spout.

4. Pooling Water

Gutters are designed to send water away from your home. Pooling water at your foundation is a clear sign they are not functioning. Plus, it can cause expensive mold and structural problems if left untreated.

5. Water Damage

Marks or signs of water damage under your gutters are a clear sign that they are not functioning. Left unremedied, this overflowing water will eventually damage your soffit and fascia board.

rotting fascia board6. Rotting Fascia Board

Wood fascia boards will soften over time, and rot to the point that they can no longer securely hold the gutters. In this case, you may just need to have the damaged board replaced. However, you will still need to remove your gutter system to do the replacement.

7. Sagging

When the seams of your gutters are under too much stress, the whole system can sag and stress your roof’s frame. Not only is this bad for your roof, but the misalignment also reduces the effectiveness of your gutters.

8. More than 30 Years Old

Properly maintained gutters can last up to 30 years. But once your gutters are approaching the three-decade mark, they are likely beyond small repairs and will need to be replaced.

If you see any of the issues above, schedule a consultation with the gutter replacement experts at Brothers. Our gutter specialists will come to your house and create custom-manufactured gutters on the spot.

Every home is unique, and our technology and craftsmanship ensure that your gutter system fits the exact specifications of your home. That way, you have the best possible protection from the rainwater that can wreak havoc on your home.