If you're a homeowner, you know that regular maintenance is very important in keeping your home in top condition. One often overlooked aspect of home maintenance is the gutters. Gutters are designed to collect rainwater that falls on your roof and direct it away from your home's foundation. Without gutters, rainwater can cascade down the sides of your home, saturating the soil around the foundation and creating excessive moisture buildup. Over time, this can lead to soil erosion, foundation settling, and even foundation cracks, jeopardizing the stability of your home.
However, gutters can wear out over time and may need to be replaced. But how do you know when it's time to invest in new gutters?
Here are some signs that your home may need new gutters.
Are your Gutters Overflowing?
If you notice that your gutters are overflowing during rainstorms, it may be a sign that they are not functioning properly. Gutters that are clogged with debris, such as leaves, twigs, or dirt, can cause water to back up and spill over the sides of the gutters. This can lead to water damage to your home's fascia, soffit, and siding, and can also cause erosion around your foundation.
Gutters are Sagging or Pulling Away
Gutters should be installed properly and securely attached to your home. If you notice your gutters sagging or pulling away from your home, it could be a sign of structural issues. Sagging gutters can cause water to pool, which can lead to damage to your gutters and fascia boards. Pulling away gutters can also create gaps that allow water to leak through and damage your home's exterior. If you notice any sagging or pulling away of your gutters, it's important to address the issue promptly to avoid further damage.
Cracks, Holes, or Rust
Over time, gutters can develop cracks or rust, especially if they are made of older materials like galvanized steel. Cracks in gutters can allow water to leak out, defeating the purpose of having gutters in the first place. Gutters can develop cracks or holes due to weather exposure, aging, or damage from debris or animals. These cracks or holes can allow water to leak from the gutters, causing water damage to your home's walls, foundation, and landscaping. If you notice cracks or holes in your gutters, it may be time to replace them.
Peeling Paint or Water Stains
Take a close look at the exterior of your home, especially near the gutters. If you notice peeling paint or water stains on your siding, it could be a sign that your gutters are not effectively channeling water away from your home. Water that overflows or leaks from gutters can run down the walls of your home, causing damage to the siding, paint, and even the foundation. If you see signs of water damage on your home's exterior, it's important to investigate and address the issue promptly.
Mold or Mildew
If you notice mold or mildew growth on your gutters or on the walls of your home near the gutters, it may be a sign that your gutters are not properly channeling water away from your home. Mold and mildew thrive in moist environments, and if your gutters are not functioning properly, they can create an environment conducive to mold and mildew growth, which can lead to health issues and further damage to your home.
Preventing Ice Dams
In colder climates like here in Des Moines and surrounding areas, gutters are crucial for preventing ice dams from forming on your roof. Ice dams occur when snow melts on a warm roof and re-freezes at the eaves where it's colder. The ice buildup can prevent proper water drainage, leading to water seeping under the shingles and causing damage to the roof and underlying structures, including the foundation.
Basement Flooding
Gutters that are not functioning properly or are missing can allow rainwater to pool around your home's foundation, increasing the risk of basement flooding. Water seeping into the basement can cause damage to walls, flooring, and belongings, and can also create a damp and moldy environment that is harmful to your health.
Frequent Gutter Repairs
If you find yourself constantly repairing your gutters due to recurring issues such as leaks, cracks, or sagging, it may be more cost-effective to replace them rather than continually investing in repairs. Frequent repairs can add up over time and may not effectively address the underlying issues with your gutters. Replacing your gutters with new, properly functioning ones can save you money in the long run and provide better protection for your home.
Gutters are an essential component of your home's drainage system, and they play a critical role in protecting your home's foundation from water damage. Properly functioning gutters effectively collect and direct rainwater away from your home, preventing soil saturation, basement flooding, soil erosion, and other issues that can compromise the integrity of your home's foundation. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of gutters when needed are important for ensuring their effectiveness in safeguarding your home's foundation.
If your home needs a foundation specialist
If your gutters have caused damage to your foundation and noticed water in the basement, don’t wait to call BAM Basements and Masons, we are the Premier waterproofing and Egress window company serving the Des Moines, Iowa area. If you’re located in Des Moines, Ankeny, Bondurant, Altoona, Pleasant Hill, Ames, Adel, Waukee, Indianola, Grimes, Urbandale, Johnston, West Des Moines, Clive, or the surrounding areas, we’re the place to call. BAM Basements and Masons is a step above from other companies for all your basement and foundation needs.