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COMMON GUTTER PROBLEMS
Gutters are an understated element of the exterior. However, when this product malfunctions, it can cause a lot of headaches and hassle to homeowners. From pooling water on the ground to foundational damage, gutter troubles can lead you down an expensive and frustrating road.
The good news is that you can keep most gutter problems at bay by staying proactive. These are the most common problems that gutters cause and how they can be avoided:
Problem #1: Leaks
It can happen to anyone. When a gutter springs a leak, it can eventually turn into a major issue if the problem is ignored.
But what causes a leak in the gutter system, anyway?
There are several culprits.
Loose fasteners are one of the causes of leaky gutters. When a gutter is fastened to a roof with items such as hangers or screws, they can pop out of place over time. As water runs off the roof, it can flow over the rear edge of the gutter and the fascia boards.
Cracks and holes are two other common reasons behind gutter leaks. You’ll most commonly find both cracks and holes where fasteners pass through the metal.
Problem #2: Gutter Joint Separation
If the gutters are pulling apart from one another, this is a common problem that is typically caused by clogs and debris accumulation. The joint areas of the gutters are vulnerable to separation due to the weight of water and clogs in the system.
Keep in mind that caulk or glue typically isn’t strong enough to join two gutter pieces back together. You’ll need to use rivets for separated gutter sections.
Problem #3: Improper Slope
Many homeowners don’t give a second thought about gutter slope. The gutter slope is essential to the overall functioning of the system—and an incorrect slope can cause a myriad of problems.
The gutter slope, otherwise known as the pitch, is the amount the gutters slant downward to direct the path of water flow. If the gutter slope isn’t properly positioned, it will pool in the system and spill over the sides.
If the slope is slanted too sharply, the gutters can’t function at full capacity.
Problem #4: Bad Downspout Draining
Not only do your gutters need sloped at a precise angle, but the downspouts need specific direction as well. If downspouts drain too close to the home, this can also result in pooling water around the home.
If you’re installing downspouts on your gutter system, be sure that they extend several feet from your home. Otherwise, they’ll dump water right into your basement or pool on the ground beside the foundation.
Problem #5: Gardens Growing in Your Gutter
If gutters are filled with debris, seeds, and bird droppings, this combination can turn into plants growing in the gutter system. If your home has access to sunlight with plenty of rain, you’ll have your very own gutter garden with zero effort on your part.
While this is a somewhat comical visual, the truth is that vegetation in the gutters is no laughing matter. It can weigh down the gutters, causing the joints to separate or even clog the entire system.
The solution to this is easy in theory but time-consuming: keep your gutters clean.
Problem #6: Clogged Gutters
Aside from leaky gutters, this is perhaps one of the most common problems with gutters. Gutters can easily clog up with just about anything that blows around in the wind. You’ll commonly find insects, leaves, pine needles, and other plant life.
When water cannot flow through the gutters properly, it becomes clogged and can add excessive weight to the system. This can wreak havoc on the gutters and the roof, which can result in cracks, separation of joints, gardens growing in the gutter, and a number of other problems.
How to Avoid Gutter Troubles
If the thought of water in your basement or damaged roofing makes you shudder, we have some good news. There is a way to keep gutter problems from costing you a fortunate: keep them clean.
This involves cleaning the gutters out a couple times per year—ideally spring and fall.
But what if you don’t have time to climb out on a ladder, fish out the debris by hand, and do it all over again in a few short months?
Gutter protection reduces the need for routine gutter maintenance. A stainless steel mesh tops off the gutter and keeps major debris from entering the system.