While we don’t often think about it, gutters take the brunt of a variety of harsh weather conditions, leading to damage overtime. If this sounds like your situation, don’t panic yet. While there are times, such as when your gutter system is entirely rusted out, that a full replacement will be necessary, there are many situations in which a small section of the gutters can be repaired so you can avoid the expense and hassle of a total replacement. Repair can be a great way to save money without simply letting the malfunction in your gutters continue; thus, preventing the negative effects of undiverted water. Continue reading to learn more about why gutters are necessary, when to choose repair, and why repair could be the right choice for your gutter issues.
Why Do I Need Guttering?
The first thing you should know about gutters is that they’re not just decorative pieces on your home’s exterior. They’re an integral part of keeping rainwater from damaging your property. The best way to understand how important gutters are is to consider what happens if you remove them. Without gutters, rainwater will flow directly off the roof onto the ground. This means that heavy moisture will run off your roof in torrents impacting your house, landscaping, or other nearby structures, likely resulting in damage. In addition to causing structural problems, rainwater also has the potential to carry dirt and debris inside your home. These contaminants can lead to mold growth and other health concerns. Moreover, some rain may back-up onto your roof and lay where it could cause decay to begin on your roof and inside your attic space. Simply put, gutters are a necessary part in ensuring the structural integrity of your home, the beauty of your property, and the health of your family.
When Should I Replace My Gutter System?
When you begin noticing signs of damage to your gutters, it may be time to replace your entire gutter system. However, before replacing all of your gutters, consider whether your current gutter system needs a few repairs or whether it requires replacement. The most common reason for needing a new gutter system is because your gutters have been damaged by age or poor installation. Other reasons include:
- Your gutters are too old to handle the weight of the snow and ice they must bear.
- You’ve had excessive problems with leaks.
- Your gutters no longer stay together in multiple places. (You can avoid this issue in the future by installing new seamless gutters, instead of sectional gutters.)
- Your gutters have rusted completely through or are full of holes and cracks.
- Your gutter system is at least 25 years old and has limited life left in it.
- Despite having your gutters regularly cleaned and cleared of clogs, your water is not being diverted properly, resulting in flooding.
- Your fascia has deteriorated to the point that your gutter hangers won’t stay in place, meaning the entire system could benefit from replacement. This is because gutter replacement companies will replace the fascia when completing a gutter system replacement.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s probably time to get a new gutter system installed. Although, before you do, make sure you truly need a total replacement and couldn’t make do with quality repair job.
What Are Some Signs That Gutter Repair Could Restore My Gutters?
Repairing your gutters isn’t always a bad idea. There are times when repairing your gutters might be the better option over replacing them. Here are some examples of when you might want to consider a repair instead of a replacement:
- If only a small area of the gutter system has been damaged, it can be eco-friendlier and more cost effective to remove and replace a small section than to replace the entire system.
- If only one joint/seam has sustained a leak, you may be able to get away with repairing it with some sealant after tightening the area.
- If you have copper gutters, replacement is typically the best choice. Since these systems are some of the most expensive gutter options on the market, you don’t want to pay for a total replacement unless absolutely necessary. Thus, if the damages aren’t severe and are fixable, repair is the best option.
- If the gutter system is in relatively good shape, with only a minor crack or hole here and there, they can typically be repaired with fresh sealing. Even if the crack is larger, it is possible it may still be able to be repaired using metal flashes, glue, and sealant, providing these types of damages are few and far in-between.
- If your issues are stemming from loose hangers that have gotten bent, they can often be replaced without getting rid of the whole system. In some cases, they can simply be screwed into a new area of the fascia.
Ultimately, if you are still unsure of whether your system needs to be repaired or replaced, call in a reputable gutter repair and replacement company. A trained technician will be able to inspect your system and give recommendations based upon its condition and your budget.
What Are the Benefits of Having Your Gutters Repaired Instead of Replaced?
There are many benefits to choosing to have your gutters repaired rather than replacing them. For starters, you’ll save money by avoiding the expense of a complete installation. Also, you’ll avoid paying for labor costs to install a brand-new system.
Furthermore, you help reduce waste when you choose gutter repair, since your entire system won’t end up in the landfill. Not only will you feel better about your choice, but you will also get your job completed in record time, since a repair is much less involved than a total replacement. That way your gutters are back in working order, in record time, so you are ready for that next big down pour.
Lastly, if you are planning on moving, in the near future, it may not make sense to invest in a total replacement. Instead, repair gives you a viable option to fix the existing problems, so your gutters function correctly and look presentable for resale purposes, without breaking the bank.
If your gutters are currently malfunctioning, don’t wait until they cause serious damage to your property. Call a reputable company today for gutter repair or replacement!
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