Do you own a home or business in Greater Kansas City? Are your existing rain gutters and downspouts causing frustration because they don’t work the way you expect? If you’re unsure what to do next, consider your options. For most homeowners and businesses, the choices are simple: repair, replace, or endure. Naturally, taking no action will not address your concerns. However, fixing or replacing a gutter system would be an effective solution.
3 Signs Your Rain Gutters & Downspouts Need Replacement
A high-performance gutter system is essential. It protects your roof, siding, foundation, and landscaping from water damage. Although rain gutters and downspouts do not last forever, they should provide decades of service life if installed and maintained properly. But when does a gutter system require replacement?
1. The Gutters Are Pulling Away From The Roof
Gutters must be tightly secured to the fascia boards to collect rainwater and snowmelt efficiently. Over time, the fasteners connecting gutter channels to the home or structure weaken or break. Eventually, you will observe the gutters sagging or losing their snug fit. Instead of water flowing directly into the gutters, some runoff may seep into the gap, through the roof surface, or down the siding, causing streaks. When gutters pull away, take swift action to address this issue.
2. The Gutters Consistently Clog Or Overflow
When gutter channels become stuffed with leaves, branches, and other debris, they no longer allow the free flow of water runoff or snowmelt. Instead, water pools or settles in the gutters or on the roof surface. As a homeowner or business owner, you must routinely clean your gutters to prevent overflow. Additionally, you can hire a reputable roofing contractor to install gutter guards to eliminate clogging. However, if clogged gutters remain an issue, you may need to replace them.
3. The Gutters Develop Rust Spots Or Holes
Rain gutters and downspouts are often forged from aluminum, steel, or other metal alloys. They are designed to withstand the outside elements for long periods. However, all metal will rust, even if coated with a rust-resistant substance. As corrosion adversely affects a gutter system due to aging and wear and tear, the homeowner or business will eventually need to consider replacing it. While some rust spots or holes can be patched, it is not a long-term solution.
How Often Do Gutter Systems Need Replacement
Aluminum or galvanized steel rain gutters and downspouts may need to be replaced approximately every 20 to 30 years. Some materials, like copper, could last as long as 50 or more years. The frequency depends on numerous factors that impact their performance.
Extending The Lifespan Of Gutters
You are in a stronger position to extend the longevity of your gutter system. In this respect, you don’t need to expend resources prematurely. What are common ways to add life to your gutters?
Frequently Reapply Sealant
Adding airtight and waterproof sealants to vulnerable areas, such as gaps, leaks, holes, and joint separations, extends the useful life of existing gutters and downspouts.
Install Gutter Guards
The most impactful way to protect gutters from clogging is to attach gutter guards or shields to prevent leaves, branches, and debris from accumulating in the channels.
Regularly Clean Gutters & Downspouts
Experts recommend clearing the gutters and downspouts from excess debris buildup at least twice annually. You may need to complete this task even more frequently.
Review Gutters For Proper Sloping
A graduated slope must lead to the downspouts for rainwater and snowmelt to flow efficiently and effectively through the gutter channels.
Routinely Inspect Gutters
Roofing professionals encourage you to assess your gutter system at least twice annually. An inspector can identify problem areas and make recommendations for improvement.
Replacing Rain Gutters & Downspouts
The process of removing an existing gutter system and attaching a new one involves several key steps:
1. Safely Extract The Current Gutters
A reputable gutter company will remove and dispose of the gutters responsibly.
2. Measure & Design A New Gutter Plan
Before designing a new gutter system, the gutter company will take precise measurements.
3. Select The Appropriate Gutter System
Property owners have many choices. Pick the features that best situate your place.
4. Install Gutters, Downspouts, & Outlets
The installer will follow an orderly progression when constructing the gutter system.
5. Attach End Caps & Finalize Installation
If appropriate, end caps will be included. The installer will complete any last steps.
What Factors Separate Us From The Competition
As a busy professional, you have limited time to manage a faulty gutter system. You also may not have the expertise to understand the condition of your rain gutters and downspouts. At Bill West Roofing, we provide extensive knowledge and experience in addressing gutter issues. We’ll introduce cutting-edge materials and processes to resolve gutter challenges.
Contact Bill West Roofing today to schedule an appointment to assess your gutter system.
