What Are Some Signs Your Gutters Are Failing?
Your gutters provide a streamlined look around the edge of your roofline, but their purpose serves far more than aesthetic appeal. Their functionality lies in managing the water that falls off your roof from rainfall. If they’re working correctly, they should be able to safeguard your home from the damaging effects of water, but when they start to fail, that’s when you run into trouble. Keep an eye out for these problem signs to indicate your gutters may be at risk.
Puddles Around Your Foundation
One of the most worrying signs of gutter failure is puddles forming around the base of your foundation. When this happens, it can put your home at risk for severe structural damage and can also lead to leaks in your basement or ground floor. Since your gutter’s main purpose is to direct water away from your home, when it becomes damaged, clogged, or starts to rust, they are no longer effective.
Landscape Erosion
When water is able to pour onto your yard below, landscape erosion can take place. This can be due to holes, cracks, leaks, and clogged gutters, all of which can obstruct the path of water and lead to overflow. Erosion is far more common than many homeowners think but it’s a problem that needs to be addressed quickly. The longer it is able to wreak havoc, the more damage it can cause to your landscape, crawl space, basement, and concrete.
Rust
While rust may not seem like a big deal now, the longer it is left untreated or repaired, the more corrosion it will cause for your gutters. It can also cause deterioration of your home’s structures and lessen the overall appearance. Gutter rust is also able to cause issues such as foundation cracks, stains or efflorescence on walls, and water damage on your home’s exterior siding.
Tips to Prevent Gutter-Related Damage
- Inspect your gutters for signs of damage and repair them as soon as possible
- Clean out clogs or blockages to prevent any overflows or sagging gutters
- Ensure the grade of your yard is positive and not negative to allow water to flow away from your home
- If rust is too far progressed, replace the section of gutter
- Place your downspouts at least 8ft. away from your home to prevent hydrostatic pressure and foundation damage
Let the Experts throughout the Detroit, Livonia and Rochester Hills Area Repair Your Gutters
If your home is experiencing water-related problems due to your gutters, it may be time for repairs. The team at FSM specializes in inspecting and repairing your gutters and we have solutions that we tailor to your home’s needs. If you’ve noticed any of the above problem signs and want to safeguard your home, contact us today. We offer free comprehensive inspections that come with a written estimate of repairs.
