WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN REPLACING GUTTERS – FAMILY ROOFING

Posted on by David Reid

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WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN REPLACING GUTTERS

 

Replacing your gutters can be a somewhat stressful process.  People want to make sure that the same problems won’t repeat themselves, especially if their old gutters start coming apart before completing their average lifespan.  If you’re dealing with the trials of having old/damaged gutters, there are some tips that will make things go much more smoothly.

Do I Need to Replace My Rain Gutters?

Rain gutters can last from 10 to 70 years depending on the material they’re made of and the quality of the installation method.  Particularly harsh climates with intense rainstorms will wear them down faster, but only when compared to dryer areas.  In truth, rain gutters will go for decades before they start showing signs of decay as long as they’re properly put together and there’s a regular cleaning regime in place.  Keep in mind that frequent maintenance is also the best way to find problems on time, particularly the following:

  • Fissures and cracks on your gutters.

  • Loose screws, sections bended, and other signs that could suggest that your gutters are not properly attached to the roof/fascia.

  • Rust and corrosion.

  • Peeled paint and wet spots on the walls.

  • Leaks.

  • Water overflowing your gutters each time it rains.

If you’ve encountered similar issues more than once, a replacement is probably in order.  Keep in mind that even if you’re familiar with the process of building/installing rain gutters, the support of a professional installer will be key to ensure your gutter’s durability.

    • Consider your local climate:  No matter what drove you to replace your gutters in the first place, this is an important step.  Your area’s climate might have changed since you first installed a guttering system, and some types of gutters are sturdier than others depending on how much rain, snow, hail, and sunlight they withstand throughout the year.

    • Materials:  If the gutters you’re replacing are decades old, you’ll probably have a clear picture of what you want you want in terms of materials.  Still, you should take your time evaluating the pros and cons of all the materials provided by the installation company.  Aluminum gutters are affordable and versatile, while copper gutters are the most durable option, able to last over 50 years with proper maintenance.  While you may have your own preferences, it’s important to assess each material in relation to your local climate and the design your gutters are meant to have.

    • Check your roof’s conditions:  Faulty gutters and damaged roofs often go hand in hand; when one starts malfunctioning, the damage will inevitably extend to the other.  If your roof is in need of repair, it’s best to be done with that before installing new gutters.  Not only will it ensure a more straightforward process, but your gutters will last longer when your roof is in optimal condition to support them.  This also includes an assessment of your fascia board, if you have one in place.

    • Identify the best location for your gutters:  This is relevant if you need to replace faulty gutters.  Gutters built through a DIY approach can usually result in inaccurate measurements, poor placement, and other mishaps that ultimately compromise their structure.  It’s essential to determine the size of your gutters according to the size/pitch of your roof.  Moreover, the placement of your downspouts (preferably in an inconspicuous area away from electric meters, sidewalks, and other obstacles) will play a role on the efficacy of your entire guttering system.

    • Accessories:  There are additional tools meant to provide an extra layer of protection/functionality to your guttering system.  Most of them can be attached during the installation process or as part of the maintenance.  You can install hangers that will support the gutters more efficiently (especially in houses without a fascia board), or metal flashings to prevent water from running behind your gutters.  Leaf guards are also an important addition that keeps debris and pests out of your guttering system.  In short, there are many accessories to choose from depending on your priorities, and a gutter installation company will be a great source of knowledge to help you on that front.  You can always ask them about all the options available and whether or not they are useful in relation to your home’s layout.

    • Removing Old Gutters:  Even if you plan on getting rid of your old gutters, you can’t rush through the removal process.  If you do, you can needlessly damage your home’s façade, your roofs, and your walls, on top of weakening the space that your new gutters are meant to occupy.  Remember to go from the ground up, starting with the elbow at the bottom of the downspout and making your way up to detach the straps running along your gutters.  Similar to what happens when it comes to installation and maintenance, this is a process that should be left to professionals if you don’t feel confident about the idea of getting many feet above the ground to take down an entire structure off your roof.

      If you know what to consider when replacing gutters, you might be tempted to work on the process without seeking the help of a professional installation service.  If that’s the case, you should consider the amount of time you’ll save looking for materials and equipment, not to mention the peace of mind that comes with having a professional taking care of things without compromising anyone’s safety.  When it comes to budget concerns, the investments you make to afford custom-made gutters will pay off with a longer lifespan, increased esthetic value, and more reliability against intense climatic changes.

    • Fascia condition:  Fascia is a board running horizontally under a roof edge, typically consisting of wood or sheet metal.  Does your home currently have a fascia board that your gutters are attached to?  Is it in good condition or is it rotting?   If your home does not have fascia, or it is damaged, it will need to be reinstalled or repaired prior to gutter installation.  Symptoms of damaged fascia include peeling paint, warping, stains and crumbling wood. If installing fascia is not an option for you, or your home, there is a way your gutter system can be hung without it, using a roof strap.  The roof straps attach to the hidden hanger inside the gutter and secure right onto the roof.

    • Does your roof need to be replaced too? While you are replacing your gutters it is important to check the condition of your roof as well. When replacing a roof, the gutter system will need to be taken down as well, and after being taken down, often need to be replaced all together.  If you are replacing your gutters now it may make sense to do the roof as well, if it is needed or you believe it will be needed in the near future.

    • Amount of gutter:  Are you looking to replace the gutter system on your entire house, or just certain sections?  re there some sections on your home that did not have gutters hung originally that you would like to have installed now?  Knowing how much guttering you want is important to properly plan a project and/or the projected cost of this project