The 6 Most Common Gutter Problems
While most homeowners know that clogged gutters can be a problem, they probably don’t realize just how serious gutter problems can be. Many homeowners don’t even think about their gutters until something goes wrong, which could be too late to avoid serious and extensive damage.
Gutters have one purpose: channel water away from your home. Most people focus on how gutters move water away from your home’s foundation, but they can also help protect your roof. If nothing else, gutter problems can quickly turn into roof problems. To keep water away from your home, your gutters must be in good working order.
Read on to learn more about the six most common gutter problems you can monitor to avoid significant problems down the road. Luckily, keeping your gutter system working doesn’t have to be too difficult, especially with the help of Hibbard Roofing & Construction. We’re here to serve you whether you need Lafayette roofing installation or general gutter maintenance.
1. Clogged Gutters
The most common gutter problem is when they do not drain properly. When gutters become clogged, they cannot route water away from your home. That means they may start to overflow, which can lead to water pooling and roof damage, not to mention the potential for water to permeate your foundation.
The best way to keep your gutters unclogged is to commit to a regular maintenance plan. Depending on where you live, the size of your home, your regular weather conditions, and the number of trees near your home, it’s a good idea to schedule a gutter cleaning at least twice a year. Not everyone has the equipment or experience to attempt a DIY gutter cleaning project, so it may be worth opting for a professional gutter cleaner.
2. Improperly Angled Gutters
For gutters to work properly, they must have the appropriate pitch (angle). The slope of the gutters ensures that water flows down the gutter and through the downspout. Generally speaking, your gutters should angle at least a quarter inch for every ten feet.
While Lafayette roofing and general contractors will ensure that your gutters have the correct pitch upon installation, things can shift over time. If you’re unsure if your gutters have the right angle, look for pooling water. Correcting this problem might involve reinstalling the gutter’s hangers, which can be a big job.
3. Sagging Gutters
Overflowing gutters aren’t the only problem when gutters are clogged. When gutters are full of twigs, leave, standing water, and other debris, the total weight can be too much for the hangers to handle. These pieces of hardware will pull out when they can’t support the weight.
Sagging gutters completely alter the pitch of your gutters. In extreme situations, gutters may become so heavy that they fall from the house, potentially bringing parts of the roof with them.
Getting rid of sagging gutter problems could be as easy as tightening the hanger screws after cleaning the gutters. In other cases, you may need a Lafayette roof repair company to help install new hangers closer together than the previous ones.
4. Damaged Gutters
Gutters can experience damage in a variety of ways. Outside of clogs, weather can create serious gutter problems. For example, heavy rain and wind can knock down or mangle gutters while hanging on your home. Clogged gutters can freeze in colder climates, adding extra weight that can damage the gutters beyond repair.
Luckily, most damaged gutters need only be reinstalled or replaced to function properly again. Unfortunately, the only thing you can do to prevent weather-related damage is to ensure your gutters are properly installed and don’t become loose over time.
5. Holes and Leaks
Anytime you notice streams of water pouring down from the middle of your gutters, you’ve most likely encountered a leak. Holes and leaks are fairly common and aren’t too terrible to fix. If you want to try it yourself, you can find gutter sealant (caulk) to fill holes. You may need to use a patch kit if there is a larger leak. Make sure the patch kit uses the same material as your gutters to not cause erosion or cohesion problems.
To ensure that holes and leaks are fixed correctly, it’s always best to bring in a professional. Not only will a roofing company have the right tools and safety equipment, but they can also make sure a leak isn’t the only issue with your gutters that needs attention.
6. Lack of a Gutter System Causes Gutter Problems
Some homes do not have gutters at all, which is a gutter problem in itself. A proper gutter system is necessary to keep water flowing away from your home’s foundation. Gutters also help prevent damage to your siding, windows, and doorways. Quality gutters are one of the biggest returns on investments you can make in your home.
If you are ready to install new gutters or need repairs on your current gutter system, it’s time to call the professional and reliable team at Hibbard Roofing and Construction. We have been the leading commercial and residential roofing company in the Lafayette area for years. We built our company around delivering excellent customer service, impeccable workmanship, premium products, and competitive pricing. You can count on us for honesty, transparency, and respect at every turn.
Give us a call or contact us online today to schedule your complimentary consultation.