When gutters have leaks, structural damage can happen. It’s necessary for issues to be uncovered as soon as possible so they can be addressed before pricey damage occurs. Aside from taking things like house siding into consideration, you will also need to look into other things. Depending on the season, you may even need to get your windows ready for winter. Another key aspect to inspect and consider is your rooftop.

Read on for signs that it is time to get yourself a new eavestrough:

Dry Rot

This is particularly applicable to outdoor wood surfaces. It typically occurs when wood materials are infiltrated by water. That’s because it allows fungus spores to move in and lead the surface to deteriorate. Wherever the dry rot is, it’s key to look up at the eavestrough because there’s almost certainly a moisture issue there. 

Gutter Clogs

When there are stems and leaves that protrude from the eavestrough, inspecting for a clog in the area is crucial. When debris is backed up, that tends to mean your downspouts have a problem. Sometimes, the solution is simply cleaning, but when the issue is recurring, chances are, a full replacement is in order.

Gutter Cracks

Whether that’s a hairline crack or a major one, there will eventually be a leak that ends up causing a blockage. While it may not seem like an urgent deterrent to the overall drainage system, even the smallest cracks can lead to the biggest of issues as time passes. An individual crack doesn’t take much to fix, but more extensive damage will need professional help.

Peeling Paint

If there is bubbling or peeling paint somewhere in or on your home, that means excessive moisture in the area is present somewhere. When that happens, the gutter above that area should be inspected. Chances are, there’s a leak there. When the problem is in more than one spot or place, that’s a sign that the whole eavestrough system needs to be replaced.

When there are no obvious problems with an eavestrough system, don’t stop at looking for peeling paint; check on rotting wood as well. Those are clear signs that water tends to overflow or leak during moments of torrential rain. 

Separated Eavestrough Seams

Damages and leaks happen when two eavestrough seams end up separating. It’s possible to go for mending, but the ideal way to go about it is getting seamless gutters. Inspect your whole eavestrough system closely. Make sure that it’s straight as a ruler. Sagging usually happens at the seams, which is where various sections of the guttering meet. When there is a sag, that means leaves have built up there. 

Other possibilities include loose fixtures or a poor connection. If the sag is small, repairs are possible, but even two or three sags are a clear sign of the eavestrough system needing replacement. That usually means that it’s not ageing well at all.

Conclusion

One of the most important parts of a home is the roof and siding, including the eavestrough. Sometimes, a repair will do it, but other times, a replacement is in order. Signs that it’s time for replacement include dry rot, gutter cracks, and peeling paint.

Looking to get exterior home renovations in Edmonton? Reach out to MCM Home today! We have qualified installers and only use quality materials from reputable manufacturers that stand behind their products.