When performing routine gutter cleaning – which is best done in the fall – it’s important to also take an up-close-and-personal look at your gutters and take stock of their condition. Although gutters are an unimportant afterthought to many homeowners, they play an essential role in protecting your house from devastating water damage. This is why it’s so important to ensure that your gutters are leak-free and in good repair at all times.
How Long Do Gutter Systems Last?
While there are a number of factors that must be taken into consideration when estimating the overall lifespan of a home gutter system, such as local weather conditions and the amount of maintenance it receives, the National Association of Home Builders estimates the average life of galvanized steel and aluminum gutters at 20 years. Copper gutters, meanwhile, can be expected to last up to 50 years.
Signs That Indicate It’s Time to Replace Your Gutters
No matter what type of gutter system you choose, if you don’t have home gutter guards it will be necessary to clean out your gutters at least twice a year to ensure they remain in proper working condition. In addition to keeping the gutters clear of clogs, gutter cleaning also allows you to identify problem areas before they turn into bigger issues. As you clean, keep an eye out for the following signs that your gutters need to be replaced.
- The gutters are bent, dented or have cracks or holes that can’t be repaired
- The gutters show signs of rust
- The gutters are buckling, sagging or pulling away from the house
- Seamed gutters are starting to come apart at the seams or have become loose
- Water leaks into your basement after a heavy rain
- You notice peeling paint or rust stains around your home
- The wood on the soffit and fascia is rotting
- The landscape underneath the gutters shows signs of erosion
While it’s sometimes possible to perform gutter repairs to reattach gutters that are separating from the house or adjust gutters that are sagging, it’s necessary to completely replace downspouts and gutters that have deteriorated to the point that they’re beyond reasonable repair.
Let’s Talk About Your Gutter Needs
For more information about the top gutter systems as well as the best gutter guard systems for your home, get in touch with Gutter Helmet by calling (800) 824-3772. We can connect you with a local dealer who can also provide you with a free estimate on the installation of a Gutter Helmet gutter protection system. This is definitely something you’ll want to take advantage of, since investing in Gutter Helmet is the best way to extend the life of your rain gutter system!
