WHEN TO HAVE YOUR GUTTERS REPLACED 

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Most gutter systems, including galvanized steel and aluminum gutters, have an expected lifespan of 20 years.  Copper gutters can last twice that long, with a serviceable life of 50 years or more.  They may not be the most expensive investment you make in your home, but good gutters can prevent a number of other, more costly problems from arising.  This makes understanding when and how to repair and replace your gutters crucial to protecting your home’s value.

Most gutters will last between 20 and 50 years, depending on the type of material.  A simple aluminum or galvanized steel gutter system will likely be due for replacement around the 20-year mark while other materials such as copper are known to last much longer.

Though about twenty years is a good estimate, homeowners should still examine their gutters, at least on a yearly basis.  There are telling signs that your gutters need to be replaced, some that could cause a hefty expense if not taken care of quickly.  While you’re out and examining your home, try to keep a lookout for these signs that your gutters need to be addressed.

Take a Look at Your Gutters

Walk around your house and take a good look at your gutters on a nice day.  If your gutters are galvanized steel, check for rust, especially at the bottom of the gutters.  Look for problem areas of sagging or splitting gutters and look for holes.  Check for loose fasteners, as well.  Peeling paint and washed out landscaping are often signs that the gutters above need some attention.  Make sure your downspouts are attached properly and extend at least 10 feet out from the foundation.

When is it Time for a Gutter Replacement?

Here’s are the main signs that indicate you’re home is in need of a gutter replacement or repair:

Cracking

A cracked gutter allows water to drain out and defeats the purpose of a drainage system.  A small crack or two is something that could be repaired individually, but it could also be the early sign of a larger problem.  Several or serious cracks are telltale signs that a gutter replacement is necessary.

Rust

A few spots of rusts isn’t the end of the world.  Gutters are built to move water, after all, and minimal rust damage can be repaired.  However, if you notice more than a couple patches, or any large impact areas, this could be the sign of a bigger issue that might require a more extensive project.  Be sure to connect with a professional sooner rather than later to see if the rust on your gutter system requires a replacement.

Leaky or separated seals

Gutters are most vulnerable at the seams where different sections are attached.  Inspect these areas closely for leaks, separations, or sags to ensure the seals aren’t compromised.   Remember, a properly functioning gutter system will funnel water towards downspouts.  Water should not spill through the gutters near the roof.   Check your gutters during a rainstorm to see if gutters are properly funneling water downwards and away from the base of your home.  If your gutters are leaky or clogged and you do not address this issue promptly, it could result in water seeping into your home and causing damage.

Paint damage

More often than not, water is not your home’s friend.  Paint bubbles or peeling on your siding is likely the result of water damage, which is often caused by a faulty gutter system.  If you notice an area with damaged paint, inspect the condition of the nearest gutter and attempt to detect any damage.  If you are unsure whether the gutters are causing siding damage, be sure to get in touch with a professional to get an expert’s opinion.

Rotting

Much like paint damage, water from a broken gutter system can cause rotting to siding, window sills or door frames.  Wood siding is especially prone to rotting from damaged gutters.  Prevent an additional siding replacement project by being proactive about repairing your gutter system.

Mold or mildew

Have you ever noticed a patch of green or black discoloration on a home?  This can be caused by a damaged gutter system not properly moving water away from a home’s exterior.  If you encounter mold and/or mildew in a formerly dry area, ill-functioning gutters are a possible cause.

Roof separation

Your gutters and roof should be properly attached to maximize effectiveness.  Occasionally, fasteners connecting the two will become loose or damaged and require a simple replacement.  But if the problem persists, the fascia boards which connect the gutter and roof may be rotting.  If this is the case, a gutter replacement is likely to be necessary.  

Sagging

If sections of your gutters are sagging, water pooling can occur.  This results in spill-overs and possibly cracks or separation.  Sagging gutters may also be the culprit if you notice any unexpected landscaping damage after rain or unusual flooding.

Flooded basements

When water accumulates in areas it’s not supposed to, it can cause extensive damage to your basement, or even foundation, if allowed to continue. This is a serious issue that should be addressed immediately upon discovery.

Take a Look Again—in the Rain

To determine whether your gutters are truly working properly, you need to watch them on the job, so take another walk around your house when it’s raining. Make sure water is flowing smoothly out of the downspouts.  Look for places where the water may be leaking out the bottoms of the gutters or overflowing at the top.  Check for areas where water is flowing directly from the roof to the ground. If so, consider installing additional gutters.

Repair or Replace

Once you’ve found problems with your gutters, determine whether or not repair is possible.  Minor problems such as loose gutters or missing downspouts are easily tackled by most do-it-yourselfers.  You can likely reattach sagging or bent gutters yourself too but replace them if the gutters have been too damaged for nails or fasteners to hold them adequately.  Gutters with holes or splits aren’t reparable. Have them replaced by a professional who can do the job without damaging the roof or siding of your home.  Rusty areas indicate a future problem, even if the rust has not yet created a hole.  Replace rusty gutters as soon as possible. 

Maintain Them Regularly

Once you’ve repaired or replaced any problem areas, the key to making your gutters last 20-plus years is regular maintenance.  Clean them every spring and fall, removing any leaves or branches that could cause them to clog or pull away from the house.  Inspect them thoroughly when you do this to make sure they’re not pulling away from the roof or missing any bolts.  Replace missing hardware promptly.  Catching problems when they’re small will prevent major issues later.

Although the importance of gutters is often overlooked, they serve a very important purpose.  If you have any questions about when to replace gutters or what signs to look for let us know in the comments below.  Taking some to maintain your gutters will increase their lifespan and keep them working properly.