Living in Charlotte, NC, one thing is for sure – it’s going to rain, and it’s going to rain a lot. Your roof and siding aren’t the only barriers protecting your home from water intrusion; your gutters do a lot too! Installing and maintaining your home gutter and downspout system ensures that rain and moisture are collected and diverted away from your property’s exterior walls and foundation. Although most gutter systems are constructed using materials meant to last – gutter and downspout effectiveness can degrade due to damage from the elements or pests. Once this deterioration begins, the most reliable way to restore performance is to replace the system.
As a homeowner, it’s prudent to get your gutter systems inspected regularly to ensure that your home stays protected. Listed below are warning signs that you may need to replace the gutter system on your home. If you’re experiencing any of the following, give the experts at Signature Exteriors of Charlotte a call, and we’ll be happy to provide a free estimate for gutter replacement.
- Cracks, Holes, or Rust Spots
Larger cracks, holes, and weakened areas in your gutter system defeat the purpose of the drainage system. Although larger openings may be visible to you as the homeowner, smaller gaps and spot failures may only reveal themselves during a large storm. These damaged spots can be temporarily closed using gutter sealant, but extensive cracking is a good reason to consider gutter replacement.
- Peeling Paint
Faulty gutter systems can ruin the exterior paint on your home. Peeling paint can be caused by excess or trapped moisture in the area. If you’re noticing paint peeling around your property, check out the closest gutter and inspect it for cracks or separation at the seams. If you see paint failure in more than one area, it may be time to consider replacing the gutters.
- Pitch Problems
For gutter systems to be effective, they need to have the correct pitch. At first glance, your gutters may appear to be installed parallel to the roof. When you look closer, you’ll notice they’re installed with a slight slope toward the downspouts so the water can flow out of the gutters. If you notice that water is overflowing from your gutters and not draining to your downspouts well, it may be time to call an expert who can perform an inspection to ensure your gutters have the appropriate pitch.