How To Tell if You Need New Gutters
Gutters serve as your roof’s first line of defense against the elements. That’s why it’s important to keep them free of clogs. Of course, maintenance can only do so much. At a certain point, they’ll need to be replaced.
How can you tell if it’s time for a gutter replacement? Kroll Construction, your trusted replacement windows and roofing company, lists them below:
Warning Signs You Need New Gutters
- Dents and cracks – Small dents might not seem like an immediate cause for concern at first. However, natural wear and tear might deepen these dents and cause leaks.
- Sagging gutters – Over time, leaves, twigs, and other debris will accumulate in your gutters, preventing water from reaching the drains and causing it to overflow. In addition to overflowing water, debris trapped in your gutter system can also cause sections of it to sag due to the added weight load.
- Peeling paint and rust – Rust is a natural consequence of prolonged exposure to the elements. It usually forms at the bottom of aging gutters and on gutter sections with peeling paint. Since rust eats away at metal, it’s only a matter of time until rusty gutters form leaks.
Keeping Track of Your Gutters’ Lifespan
Aside from keeping an eye out for the warning signs of damage, you should also keep track of your gutter’s lifespan. This rule applies to all parts of your home’s exterior, including its windows. For instance, gutters made from aluminum and galvanized steel—two of the most widely used gutter materials—usually last 20 years while more expensive ones, like copper gutters, can last up to 50 years.
Here’s a pro-tip: Gutter guards would be a smart investment if you want to reduce your gutter’s maintenance needs. They prevent leaves and other debris from entering and clogging your gutters.
Kroll Construction has been serving Detroit residents since 1961. We offer a wide range of professional exterior services as well as quality replacement windows and gutters. To request a quote, call us at (888) 338-6340 or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Detroit as well as the surrounding MI communities.
