1. Gaps
Your gutters should not have large gaps. If they do, cut them out and replace them immediately.
2. Cracks or fractures
If there is a visible cut in your gutters, then water will leak out onto your house or fascia. Any extra precipitation will not be directed away from your home’s facade. Also, small cracks will turn into large fractures, creating even greater problems for your entire drainage system in the future.
3. Standing water
Standing water means there is some sort of blockage either in the gutter or even in the downspout. If you can’t find a blockage in either one of these fixtures, you need to install a new gutter.
4. Sagging gutters
A gutter that is bowing or pulling away from the home shows that your gutters’ brackets may be loose. If the drainage system is left untouched, you could have possible property damage in addition to breakage.
5. Peeling paint
When house paint peels, it’s often due to constant moisture. Most modern paint is able to withstand heavy damage from the elements. If paint begins to flake off, then do an inspection to see if bad gutters are the culprit.
6. Rust
Some gutters may succumb to rust because of excessive rainfall. While the gutters may work for a time, it is best to install new sections before the rusted metal shatters and breaks.
7. Water damage marks
Slight discolorations on the exteriors of your home, fascia, or downspouts can indicate moisture damage. If there is any discoloration, get your gutters inspected or replaced before your exteriors get damaged any further.
8. Mold
Is mold present in your basement or close to the top of your exteriors? If your gutter system is working improperly, it could be carrying more moisture to the moldy areas and help make your home a haven for allergens.
9. Soil erosion
If the soil in your yard or garden has gotten “thinner,” or less dense, this could be because of excess precipitation. Bad gutters let water loose into your yard, carrying dirt along with it. Soil erosion can not only be bad for your lawn, but it could expose your foundation to water damage.
10. Foundation problems
Shifted or cracking foundation is often a result of moisture seeping into the soil underneath the home. A faulty gutter can leak water into standing puddles, which get absorbed into the foundation over a long period of time. The foundation then shifts or even breaks, causing even more damage to your home.
11. Overflowing water
If your downspouts are spitting out water, but your gutters are still overflowing, you may need a replacement. Overflowing could be a sign of improperly installed, improperly sloped, or poorly designed gutters that are far too narrow for your home.
12. Unexplained nails or screws
If you find nails or screws in your yard next to the roofing of your house, this could mean the gutter is working itself loose. Replace the section of gutter that is coming loose in order to keep your system safe.
Replace your gutters today!
San Antonio regularly suffers from torrential rainfall and infrequent storms than can often damage your gutters. If you notice your gutters have any of the aforementioned signs of damage, don’t hesitate to contact us today! Scheduling a San Antonio gutter replacement now can ensure you avoid more costly repairs later, and can protect your home from structural damage or worse, a major flood!
Contact us now and we’ll give you a free estimate on your new gutters as fast as possible!