Rain gutters are very important to protect your home from damage, and properly maintaining them is critical. Yet most homeowners don’t think about their rain gutters, or feel they need much attention. Unfortunately, that can result in clogged or damaged gutters, which can often lead to bigger repairs.

When it rains, every square foot of your roof can see gallons of precipitation. Without gutters, that water cascades off the roof and lands on the ground near your home’s foundation. This can cause erosion, limiting the ground’s ability to properly support your foundation. Over time, serious damage can occur, such as cracks or shifting in the foundation, mold issues, cracks in basement walls and window casings, and damage to siding above the foundation.

Foundation damage is one of the most expensive home repairs. Fixing it typically requires jacking up the house, addressing the necessary repairs, then carefully lowering the house back down. Lifting a house is not without risk. If there are unknown pre-existing structural problems, they can worsen during the process. Therefore, foundation repairs should always be addressed in a timely manner.

How do Rain Gutters Work?

Gutters are installed at the roof lines. They collect rainwater that falls on the roof and funnel it to downspouts, which take it safely away from the home’s foundation.

The Importance of Maintaining Rain Gutters

Maintaining rain gutters prevents a wide range of problems. Splattering from cracked or rusted gutter material can leave unsightly stains on siding. If fasteners fail, rain gutters can fall, a potentially damaging and dangerous situation.

Clogged gutters cause even more problems. When rainwater cannot drain properly, gutters fill up and overflow. This adds weight that fasteners may not be able to bear. Rotting leaves can also clog gutters, putting more strain on fasteners.

When to Replace Rain Gutters

Like any man-made device that is constantly exposed to the elements, gutters eventually come to the end of their useful lives. Telltale signs that it may be time to replace your gutters include frequent leaks, signs of wear, such as rust and corrosion on gutters and fasteners, drooping gutter lines, and similar problems.

If your rain gutters are in overall poor condition due to problems such as these, it may be time to replace your system. Contact a professional all-in-one company such as The Gutter Specialist for an assessment of your current system. The Gutter Specialist cleans, repairs, and installs all types of rain gutter systems.