When Is It Time for Gutter Replacement?
It's never easy to decide when to undertake a home improvement project. After all, you don't want to let your home slip into disrepair and face dealing with more problems, but you also don't feel like wasting a substantial amount of money by remodeling or repairing some part of your home that still has a few years left in it.
An excellent example of this quandary is trying to determine when it's time for gutter replacement. How long are a home's gutters designed to last? And how do you know when it is time to replace them?
As you might imagine, no two guttering systems are alike in terms of their lifespan. Rain, wind, snow, ice, rust, and many other factors affect the length of time before the next gutter replacement. However, the National Association of Homebuilders says that aluminum or galvanized steel gutters tend to last about 20 years on average, while copper gutters can go 50 years before they should be replaced.
But what if you have moved into a new home and have no idea when the last gutter replacement was performed? Then it's important for you to watch for signs that it's time to take down your gutters (or certain sections of them) and put up new ones.
Some of these clues include:
- loose guttering sections
- gutters that "flop" or bend
- widespread rust
- numerous holes or cracks in the gutters
- gaps that have formed between gutter connections
- gaps that have formed between fascia boards and gutter sections
- nails lying on the ground that have come loose from your gutters
- broken gutter fasteners
- mold or water stains on your home's façade
- water that has formed a pond next to your home after a shower or storm
- water "channels" that have developed in landscaping
- washed-out portions of landscaping
Once you decide that it is time for a gutter replacement, the next question is whether to hire a professional or to do it yourself. If only a few sections or a single side of your gutters needs replacing, then taking care of it on your own might be the way to go. However, if your entire guttering system needs an overhaul, it is probably wise to hire a professional (especially a company that warranties its work).
Also, if you do have to undertake a gutter replacement, it might be an excellent opportunity to consider outfitting your home with gutter guards. A high-quality gutter guard system can help repel debris and keep your gutters clean and clog-free for longer periods of time.
While it's true that gutters are built to withstand the elements, it's not a good idea to keep putting off a gutter replacement. Doing so could lead to water leakage in your home, flooding in your yard, and even cracks in your foundation. So be sure to inspect your home at least twice a year to see if a gutter replacement is required.
