The Complete Guide to Gutter Repair and Replacement
If you’re like many people, you know that your gutters perform an essential function:
They help carry water off your roof and away from your foundation, and they funnel it all into a safe location.
Without gutters (or with damaged gutters), your home is at risk; that’s because water can seep into the ground around your foundation, softening it to the point that your foundation can shift and crack.
When that happens, your home’s structure is thrown off-balance – and you need to make expensive repairs right away, before your whole home is compromised.
Gutters may seem like a fairly basic component of a home, but when they’re damaged or improperly installed, they need immediate repairs. In some cases, the damage is too severe and they need to be replaced.
Either way, your best bet is to work with Dynamic Roofing; our repair & replacement team has extensive experience in gutter repair and replacement in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
In fact, there’s a good chance that we’ve worked on some of your friends’ and neighbors’ gutters and roofs – we’re a fully licensed and insured contractor and have been serving DFW since 2006.
What Do Gutters Do, Exactly?
Gutters are designed to protect your home from water damage by carrying rainwater (and melting snow and ice) away from your roof and foundation.
They’re installed along the edge of your roof, and they should be sloped so that the water flows toward downspouts, which then funnel the water away from your home.
The water that flows from your roof needs to stay away from your home’s foundation, which is why gutters often lead to a downspout that points away from the house.
Usually, downspouts are located near the corner of your home, and they extend several feet away from your foundation; that way, any water that comes out of the downspout won’t have a chance to seep into the ground around your foundation.
5 Signs That Your Gutters Are Damaged
If you’re not sure whether or not your gutters need repair or replacement, watch for these five signs:
- Peeling paint
- Rusty spots
- Cracks and splits
- Sagging
- Pools of water or mildew near the foundation
Take a closer look below.
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Peeling Paint on Your Gutters or on Your Home’s Exterior Surface Behind or Near Your Gutters
One of the most obvious signs that your gutters are damaged is peeling paint. If you see any areas of paint that have started to peel away, it’s likely because water is seeping through those spots and causing the paint to lift. In addition to being unsightly, this can also lead to more serious problems like wood rot.
Rust Spots on Your Gutters
If your gutters are made of metal, you may start to see rust spots. This is a sure sign that they’re deteriorating and need to be replaced.
Cracks or Splits in Your Gutters
Another sign that your gutters need to be replaced is if you see cracks or splits. These cracks can allow water to seep through, which can cause even more damage to your gutters (and to your home).
Sagging Gutters
If your gutters are sagging, it’s usually because they’re full of debris or they’re not properly attached to your home. Either way, this is a problem that needs to be fixed right away, as it can cause even more damage to your gutters (and to your home).
Pools of Water or Mildew Near the Foundation
One of the most serious signs that your gutters are damaged is if you see pools of water or mildew near the foundation. This means that water is seeping into the ground around your foundation, which can lead to shifting and cracking. If you see this, call a gutter replacement company right away.
When to Call a Gutter Company to Repair Gutters
If you see any of the above signs, it’s time to call Dynamic Roofing. We’ll come out to your home, assess the damage, and recommend the best course of action. In some cases, we can simply repair the gutters; in others, we’ll need to replace them entirely.
Gutter Repair Costs
The cost of gutter repair varies depending on the extent of the damage. However, most repairs cost just a few hundred dollars. If you need to replace your gutters, the cost will be higher, but it’s still a relatively affordable home improvement project.
What to Know if Your Gutters Need to Be Replaced
Sometimes the damage is too severe, the gutters are too old, or they were improperly installed and repairs aren’t feasible. When that happens, you need your gutters replaced. You have several choices when it comes to gutter materials, but the most popular are:
- Aluminum
- Vinyl
- Copper
- Stainless steel
Here’s a closer look at each.
Aluminum Gutters
Aluminum is the most popular choice for gutters because it’s affordable, durable, and easy to maintain. It’s also available in a variety of colors, so you can find a style that compliments your home’s exterior.
Vinyl Gutters
Vinyl gutters are a good choice if you’re looking for an affordable option that’s easy to install. However, they’re not as durable as other materials and they can become brittle in cold weather.
Copper Gutters
Copper gutters are more expensive than other options, but they’re also very durable and have a high-end look. They’re also low-maintenance, as they won’t rust or corrode over time.
Stainless Steel Gutters
Stainless steel gutters are another good choice if you’re looking for durability. They’re also low-maintenance and won’t rust or corrode.
Do You Need to Talk to an Expert About Gutter Repair or Replacement?
If you’ve noticed that your gutters are failing, or if they’ve been damaged by wind, a storm or other weather event, Dynamic Roofing can help. Call our office today to schedule your free gutter inspection with our experts; we’ll find a time that works with your busy schedule so we can help you protect your home.