Gutters and downspouts are the unsung hero of your home. When properly functioning, they go a long way toward protecting against rain, snow, leaves, and the results of other harsh Colorado elements. Though your gutters may have contributed decades of faithful, mostly trouble-free service, every installation has an expiration date. Below are a few telltale signs that your gutters may need to be either repaired or replaced.
When should I replace my gutters?
1. Cracked or leaking Gutters
Cracked or leaking gutters could be the cause of extreme damage to the exterior and foundation of your home. Leaking gutters can result in the peeling of exterior paint, rotting fascia and soffit, damage to siding, and deterioration of the homes foundation. It can also lead to icy sidewalks and driveways in the winter which is potentially hazardous to you and your family.
2. Sagging
Sagging gutters are often the result of debris buildup or weakened gutter seams. If not addressed the gutters could detach completely causing severe damage to the roof, soffit, fascia, and other exterior parts of the house.
3. Peeling Paint
Believe it or not, malfunctioning gutters can ruin a perfectly good paint job. Hard-to-spot leaks can work their way between your siding and paint cause bubbles, peeling paint, and siding damage. Peeling paint on your gutters themselves could also be a sign that your gutters need repair.
4. Rot
When malfunctioning gutters allow rain to cascade over the home, completely unchecked, it can cause damage to the exterior wood elements of your house such as siding, window sills, and door jambs. If allowed to rot these features become unable to keep out the weather. So a seemingly isolated problem such as water-damaged drywall, may in fact be caused by inadequate storm drainage.
5. Mildew
When malfunctioning gutters allow rain to cascade over the home, completely unchecked, it can cause damage to the exterior wood elements of your house such as siding, window sills, and door jambs. If allowed to rot these features become unable to keep out the weather. So a seemingly isolated problem such as water-damaged drywall, may in fact be caused by inadequate storm drainage.
6. End of Lifespan
Gutters, when properly cared for are expected to last approximately 20 years. After this point in time they begin to deteriorate, leak, crack, or sag, causing a number of new problems for your home. If you are unsure of how old your gutters are, give us a call and we will inspect them for free.
What Products Do We Use?
Galvalume is the name of the coating applied to bare sheet steel products that acts as a two-punch barrier to the elements. It is comprised of 55% aluminum, 1.6% silicon, and 43.4% zinc.The coating is applied to the base metal in a continuous hot dip method. This creates a stronger, longer lasting product compared to regular galvanized aluminum.
If you notice any signs of the problems listed above, give us a call. One of our professionals can be at your home that same day to provide you with a proper inspection and inform you of whether your gutters need repair or replacement.