The exterior of your home takes plenty of abuse, from fluctuations in temperature and humidity to the weight of rain, snow, and debris. When a particular aspect, such as your gutters, starts to deteriorate, you can always look for warning signs. Here are a few signs your gutters might be failing.

When Do You Need New Gutters?

1. Rust

Many gutters and their connecting drainage systems are made of metal, which is excellent at standing up to the elements and impervious to water damage. However, over time, metal can oxidize. If you notice visible rust on any part of your gutters, it’s only a matter of time until the chemical reaction weakens and ruptures the metal.

2. Sagging

As leaves and twigs fill your gutters during the fall, a few stray scraps can turn into a heavy load. If animals like birds are attracted to the accumulation, they will only add to the weight by building a home in your gutters. By the end of the season, you may walk outside to find the metal channels sagging, which will prevent them from entrapping water and sending it through the drain pipes. In this case, you need new gutters as soon as possible.

3. Pulling Away

In more extreme cases, your gutters may not only be sagging, but they may have been ripped from the edge of your home altogether. Whether from an animal, a holiday decoration mishap, or extreme weather, this will leave room for water to slip between your gutters and roof, pooling around your home’s foundation. To prevent erosion and water damage, have your gutters replaced.

4. Roof Leaks

The next time you take a trip up to the attic, look around for wet insulation, puddles on the floor, or an overall musty smell. If there are leaks coming in from your roof, your gutters may be the culprit; clogged or bent gutters could be forcing water to pool and spill over onto the shingles.

Is it time for new gutters on your property? Get in touch with Chandler Roofing & Construction in Red Wing, MN, today. They will send a trained professional to inspect your home’s drainage system and recommend repairs or replacement as necessary. For more information on their work over the past 50 years, visit their website. You can also call them at (651) 388-9415 to discuss your needs.