How to Tell if It’s Time to Replace Your Gutters

Gutters are made of different materials. The better and more expensive the material, the longer it can last. Aluminum and galvanized steel gutters, which are the most popular, can last up to 20 years. Stainless steel and copper gutters last much longer, more than twice the number of years.

You can choose your gutter material based solely on how they look. If that is the case, copper gutters are a perfect choice, as they are simply beautiful. You might also want to match your type of roof. For example, if you have metal roofing, you might want a similar material for your gutters.

However, most homeowners choose their gutter material based on price and that’s OK, because the simplest and most affordable can still be effective for up to two decades.

That being said, there will come a time when your gutters should be replaced. Sometimes, they might look fine but they don’t work the same. To find out whether your gutters are due for a replacement, here are some signs to watch out for:

Too Many Cracks, Holes, Rust Spots

A hole or crack in your gutters is quite easy to fix with a little sealant and maybe some new flashing. However, if there are multiple holes, cracks, and rusty areas, it’s probably better to call your contractor to replace your gutters. Think about starting this project to coincide with another home improvement. Your siding contractor, for instance, might also offer gutter replacement services, and you won’t have to speak with a separate contractor for each project.

Fasteners Are Broken

One broken fastener shouldn’t be a cause for concern as it’s easy to replace. However, if several of these pieces of metal that attach your gutters to your roof are broken or missing, the gutters themselves might be contributing to the problem, so it’s time to talk to a contractor about it.

Screws and Nails Have Come Loose

Sometimes, you’ll find a nail or a screw on the ground. If it’s from your gutter, it’s not a problem replacing it. However, if there are too many screws or nails falling off, there might be a bigger problem. This can indicate gutter wear, so it’s a good idea to call a pro.

Gutters Are Coming Apart

Gutters are typically several pieces of material attached or fastened together. If parts of your gutter system are separating, it might be a sign of wear and it’s time to replace them. 

Gutters Are Pulling Away From the Roof

This is another problem that is usually not difficult to fix, but if a long stretch of gutter is pulling away, or if it keeps happening frequently, it might be time to consider replacing rather than fixing your gutters. You might have to fix some rotting fascia boards. It’s advisable to inform your contractor about this because it’s a reason to inspect how much damage your roof has sustained. 

A roof leak can cause this to happen, but it’s also a good idea to check your gutters for clogs. Pooling water and debris add weight, so if your gutters are not draining properly, the extra weight over a long period of time can cause gutters to pull away.

There are other red flags you should watch out for to find out whether your gutters are up for replacement. Get in touch with Custom Installations to find out more. We offer professional gutter, siding, and roofing services. Call us today at these numbers: IL (847) 558-1967, WI (414) 405-1520. You can also message us here. We help homeowners in Northbrook, IL.