A properly functioning gutter system will help to ensure that rain and stormwater flow away from your property. While gutters are essential for all locations, they’re especially vital in areas with high rainfall records. For example, according to Current Results, total rainfall in New Orleans amounted to 86.1 inches in 2021. If you’re located in a rainy area like this, it’s important to know when to replace your residential or commercial gutters. Here are nine signs to look out for.
1. Peeling Paint
Gutters have a protective coating that helps them withstand the wear and tear of the outdoors. This protective coating safeguards gutters from potential damage from hail, debris, and ice. After being worn with age, the coating will eventually begin to peel away. If you see your gutters’ paint starting to peel, this is a telltale sign that they need replacement.
2. Growing Mold
If your gutters are not functioning to the best of their ability, you may have extra moisture around your property. This excessive dampness will result in you running the risk of mold growth within the building. Mold growth is most prevalent in areas such as the basement or exterior property elements. If this issue is not taken care of, those who live or work in the building may become ill due to this harmful allergen. To avoid these health risks, it’s important to replace your gutters as soon as you notice the first sign of mold growth.
3. Visible Cracking or Fractures
If there’s damage to your gutters in the form of cracks or fractures, it’s crucial to replace them immediately. Cracks and fractures will cause water leakage from your gutter system onto your property’s exterior elements. The defection in the water’s direction can result in extensive water damage.
4. Foundation Issues
A faulty gutter system may impact foundations in the form of cracks or shifts. These blemishes form after the foundation absorbs the puddles of water present on the exterior of your property. Once you see damage to your foundation, it’s vital to have your gutters examined by a professional. This professional examination will help prevent additional structural damage to the building.
5. Improper Drainage
If you see improper drainage outside your building, it may be time to research new residential or commercial gutters. Improper drainage will likely look like large puddles of water created around the building after rain. You may also notice that your downspouts are overflowing. While old age can sometimes cause this problem, damage can also appear as the result of faulty installation or poor-quality gutters.
6. Visible Sagging or Bending
If your gutters are visibly sagging or bending, this is a clear sign that your system is being obstructed by excessive water that it can’t handle due to blockage. More times than not, this blockage is from outdoor debris. This issue can cause sagging and bending, leading to loosened gutter brackets. While you may be able to repair your gutters, professionals recommend that you opt for replacement to eliminate hassles.
7. Seam Breakage
A gutter system includes airtight seals that join your various gutter pieces together. If the seals break, you risk the gutters causing unwanted water leaks. These water leaks can cause additional issues like mold growth and foundation damage. It’s essential to call professionals after the first sign of seam breakage to avoid paying additional repair costs for further damage to your home.
8. Fallen Hardware
If you find fallen hardware like screws, nails, and fasteners around your gutters, this is a sign that you may have a faulty gutter system. These essential hardware items ensure that your gutters are in their designated places around your property with proper security. If they aren’t correctly placed and secured, it could result in water damage and leaks.
9. Damaged Landscaping
A faulty gutter system can result in damaged landscaping that will decrease your property’s curb appeal. The damaged landscaping is most commonly seen in the form of soil erosion, which will make the soil in your lawn thinner. This is the result of excessive amounts of water in your yard due to improper drainage. If this issue is not alleviated, you may run the risk of more severe problems like foundation damage.
If you see any of these nine signs at your home or business, it may be time to look into replacing your residential or commercial gutters. Call Nu-Worx, LLC today to ensure that your property has proper protection from potential damage and destruction.