10/19/2023
1. Gaps
Your gutters should not have large gaps. If they do, repair your gutter system if possible or replace your gutter system.
2. Cracks or fractures on the home
If there is a visible cuts or holes in your gutters, water will leak out onto your house or fascia causing wood to rot. Any extra precipitation will not be directed away from your home’s facade.
3. Standing water
Standing water means there is some sort of blockage either in the gutter or even in the downspout. If you can’t find a blockage in either one of these fixtures, you need to install a new gutter as the system now may have been installed incorrectly.
4. Sagging gutters
A gutter that is bowing or pulling away from the home shows that your gutters’ brackets may be loose. If the drainage system is left untouched, you could have possible property damage in addition to breakage.
5. Peeling paint
When house paint peels, it’s often due to constant moisture. Most modern paint is able to withstand heavy damage from the elements. If paint begins to flake off, then do an inspection to see if bad gutters are the culprit.
6. Rust
Some gutters may succumb to rust because of excessive rainfall. While the gutters may work for a time, it is best to install new sections before the metal rusts through and causes leaks.
7. Water damage marks
Slight discolorations on the exteriors of your home, fascia, or downspouts can indicate moisture damage. If there is any discoloration, get your gutters inspected or replaced before your exteriors get damaged any further.
8. Mold
Is mold present in your basement or close to the top of your exteriors? If your gutter system is working improperly, it could be carrying more moisture to the moldy areas and help make your home a haven for allergens.
9. Soil erosion
If the soil in your yard or garden has gotten “thinner,” or less dense, this could be because of excess precipitation. Bad gutters let water loose into your yard, carrying dirt along with it. Soil erosion can not only be bad for your lawn, but it could expose your foundation to water damage.
10. Foundation problems
Shifted or cracking foundation is often a result of moisture seeping into the soil underneath the home. A faulty gutter can leak water into standing puddles, which get absorbed into the foundation over a long period of time. The foundation then shifts or even breaks, causing even more damage to your home.
11. Overflowing water
If your downspouts are spitting out water, but your gutters are still overflowing, you may need a replacement. Overflowing could be a sign of improperly installed, improperly sloped, or poorly designed gutters that are far too narrow for your home.
12. Unexplained nails or screws
If you find nails or screws in your yard next to the your house, this could mean the gutter is working itself loose. Replace the section of gutter that is coming loose in order to keep your system safe, you could also reattach the gutter. Or possibly replace the whole system.