Gutters play a critical role in protecting your home from water damage by directing rainwater away from your roof and foundation. However, if they are installed incorrectly, they can lead to some pretty serious issues that threaten your home in numerous ways. That said, as a homeowner one of the best things you can do is keep tabs on the status of your gutters, and part of this is knowing whether they were installed correctly. Here’s a look at some of the signs that your gutters may not have been installed properly and why it might be time to call a team of professionals for repairs.
Signs of Incorrect Gutter Installation
Here are the seven main signs that often indicate incorrect gutter installation:
- Water Damage Around the Foundation – If you notice water pooling around your home’s foundation or in your basement, it might mean your gutters aren’t clearing water away. This can lead to serious structural issues over time.
- Overflowing Gutters – Gutters should channel water away from your roof; if you see water spilling over the edges during rain, it may be a sign that the gutters are too small or incorrectly sloped.
- Sagging Gutters – Gutters should be securely attached to your home. If they sag or seem to pull away from the house, the misalignment could lead to further damage and drainage issues.
- Peeling Paint on Exterior Walls – Water splashing due to incorrectly installed gutters can cause the paint on your home’s exterior walls to begin peeling, or it might also become stained.
- Clogged Gutters – If your gutters seem to clog frequently, they might’ve been installed without a proper downspout or with inadequate pitch. Needless to say, regular overflows cause all sorts of problems.
- Rust – Metal gutters that show signs of rust or corrosion could indicate that water is not draining properly. This can happen if the gutters are blocked or not sloped correctly.
- Pest Infestations – Improperly installed gutters can create standing water, which attracts pests like mosquitos, rodents, birds, and all kinds of other critters. A noticeable uptick in household pests might indicate a gutter-related issue.
Why It’s Best to Hire a Professional
To put it simply, professional gutter installers have the knowledge and experience to assess your home’s specific needs when it comes to a gutter system – not every house is the same or experiences the same weather, so their gutters must be designed with this in mind! Not to mention, professionals also have access to the best high-quality materials and techniques for ensuring lasting success. They also handle all of the labor – meaning you don’t have to get up on the ladder yourself and can enjoy the peace of mind of knowing the job’s being done correctly.
Gutters are an essential home defense system from the intensity of Mother Nature, but if they aren’t installed correctly, they can cause more problems than they solve. By being aware of the signs of improperly installed gutters, and knowing when it’s time to hire a professional for repairs, you can keep your whole system functioning and ensure that your home is protected for years to come.
About Platinum Gutters
Platinum Gutters has served homeowners across the DFW metroplex for over 15 years, proudly helping the community with a wide range of gutter maintenance, replacement, and full installation services. If you have any questions about our services or you’d like to get in touch with us to set up a FREE in-home estimate, feel free to visit us online or call today.
Tarrant County Telephone: (817) 993-4237.
Dallas/Denton/Collin County Telephone: (972) 346-1590.