Gutters Issues New Homeowners Face & How To Avoid Them

Owning a new home in comes with the responsibility of maintaining various aspects of the property, including the gutter system. Proper gutter maintenance can prevent severe exterior damage and ensure the longevity of your home. Today we are going to discuss some common gutter issues new homeowners might face and provide tips on how to avoid them.

Severe Exterior Damage

Exterior home damage is a significant concern for homeowners when gutters fail to perform their essential function of channeling water away from the house. When gutters are clogged or improperly maintained, water can overflow, cascading down the sides of the home. This overflow can damage the foundation, potentially causing foundation cracks or shifting. Additionally, the siding of the home can suffer from prolonged water exposure, leading to rot, mold growth, and deterioration of the exterior materials. Landscaping is also at risk, as the uncontrolled flow of water can wash away mulch, soil, and plants.

All Blocked Up

Leaves, twigs, and dirt are a common issue that can block up a home drainage system. When these gather in the gutters, they create blockages that obstruct the flow of water, preventing it from being efficiently channeled away from the house. This can lead to water spilling over the sides of the gutters, undermining the gutters’ purpose, and posing a risk to the home's structural integrity. Overflowing water can damage the roof, fascia, and soffit, and can lead to water pooling around the foundation, increasing the risk of leaks and structural damage.

Poor Construction

A badly constructed gutter system can often result in inadequate drainage, which can subsequently lead to water damage. When gutters are not properly designed, they may lack the capacity to handle heavy rainfall, or they might be improperly sloped, causing water to pool rather than flow toward the downspouts. Additionally, if the gutters are not securely fastened or are made from low-quality materials, they can easily become dislodged or damaged, compromising their ability to direct water away from the house. This can lead to water seeping into the roof, walls, or foundation, potentially causing serious structural damage and costly repairs.

Sagging Gutters

If your gutters are sagging, it’s likely the result of accumulated debris and standing water, which can increase the weight burden on the system. When leaves, twigs, and other debris collect in the gutters, they obstruct the flow of water, causing it to pool. This can cause the gutters to sag, pull away from the house, and eventually detach from their mountings, leading to ineffective water drainage and potential damage to the home’s exterior.

Leaking Gutters

Leaking gutters are also a common problem that can have serious consequences for homeowners. Cracks, holes, or loose joints in the gutter system can lead to leaks, allowing water to escape and seep into the home’s exterior walls. This water intrusion can cause significant damage, including wood rot, mold growth, and deterioration of the building materials, which can compromise the structural integrity of the home. Leaks can also lead to unsightly stains on the siding and contribute to the erosion of the landscape around the home’s foundation.

Corroded Gutters

Corrosion can be a problem particularly for metal gutter systems. Corrosion weakens the gutters, creating vulnerable spots that are prone to leaks and structural failure. Factors like acid rain, salty air, and consistent moisture can accelerate the corrosion process, compromising the gutters' ability to channel water away from the home effectively. As the metal deteriorates, it not only affects the gutter's functionality but also poses a risk to the home’s exterior by allowing water to seep into walls and foundations, potentially causing extensive damage.

Improperly Installed Gutters

Gutters that are not correctly aligned or securely fastened can fail to direct water away from your home. Water flow is then disrupted, causing it to either pool within the gutter system or overflow at various points. Improper gutter installation can lead to water seeping into the home’s roof, walls, or foundation, resulting in water damage, mold growth, and structural issues. Gutters that aren’t securely attached to the house can become loose or detach completely, especially during heavy rainfall or under the weight of accumulated debris.

Pest Infestations

Stagnant water and accumulated debris create an inviting environment for various pests. Mosquitos are drawn to standing water, looking for breeding sites. Additionally, the buildup of organic material provides a nesting ground for birds and rodents. These pests not only compromise the effectiveness of the gutters but can also pose health risks and cause damage to the home’s exterior by nesting and burrowing.

 
Call Action Roofing

Unlike typical contractors, we prioritize building relationships with our clients. No matter what kind of gutter issues we’re having, we will solve your problems and ensure you're satisfied with our work. The expert roofers at Action Roofing are skilled in aluminum gutters installation for homeowners in Billerica, MA. Whether you need gutter replacement, new installations or gutter cleaning or repair for homes, we’ve got you covered. Our certified team will explain our gutter installation process, materials, and equipment. We'll keep you updated throughout the project and ensure a reliable gutter system. Contact us today for a free estimate.