Signs That Your Gutters Are Failing

Tiled roof of wooden arbor with galvanized gutter ** Note: Visible grain at 100%, best at smaller sizes

Gutters play a vital role in the home system. It’s absolutely essential that they function properly so as to not cause costly damage to your home down the line. The best way to ensure that your gutter system is effective, is to take preventative steps to avoid potential problems. Prevention includes annual maintenance and being on the look out for these warning signs:

 

Puddles

Look at the perimeter around your home. If you find puddles of water within five feet of your home’s foundation, you most likely have a drain problem. Either your gutters are overflowing or your downspout is in need of a gutter extension to help redirect water flow away from your home. Another possibility is that the slope of your landscape is causing water to flow towards your home.

 

Siding Streaks

Take a close look at your home’s siding and if you see dark streaks, it’s likely that they were caused by the overflow of dirty gutter water.  This means that either your gutters are clogged or not pitched adequately and rainwater is not properly draining.

 

Water Stains

Take a look at the walls in your basement. If you see any water stains it could mean that surface water is entering your basement. This should be addressed as soon as possible to make sure that no further damage is caused to your concrete foundation.

 

Foundation Cracks

If you find cracks in your foundation it can be a  serious problem. Water can be very damaging to concrete and without an effective gutter system, water isn’t directed away from your home and can pool along the base of your home, working its way into your basement.  This can cause damage to the structure, requiring a costly fix.
If you think your gutter system is failing give us a call at Exterior Home Services. We are trained in all things exterior including gutter repair, gutter cleaning and installation so don’t hesitate to give us call. For pricing information click here for a quote.