Gutters direct rainwater and debris away from your roof and the side of your house. Ordinarily, you won’t even notice them if they’re functioning correctly. But you should keep an eye on them from time to time. If they don’t work properly, they can leak and damage your property, leading to costly repairs. By watching for problems, you can take proactive steps to prevent any further harm.

Your Guide to Gutters & Their Impact

Damage Caused by Poor Gutters

If your gutters get clogged, bent, or worn down, water can build up and eventually freeze, leading to ice dams on your roof. These can break shingles and damage the underlayment, leading to major leaks and water damage inside your home. Even if freezing isn’t an issue, tears or clogs in your gutters can let water run down the sides of your house. This can cause siding to sag, wear down sealant around windows, let mold develop, and weaken the foundation.

What to Do If You Notice Problems

Inspect the exterior of your home after rainstorms or extreme weather. If you notice pooling water around the foundation or mold on your siding or windows, have a professional examine the problem right away.

You should also periodically see if gutters are overflowing during rainstorms; clean them out when necessary—especially during and after autumn when trees shed their leaves—to prevent blockages. If you identify major dents or holes in the gutters, get them replaced to prevent future issues.

If you need new gutters, roofing, siding, or windows, Bel-Aire Home Improvement in Platteville, WI, will help. Serving customers throughout the Wisconsin, Illinois, and Iowa Tri-State area, the team is available 24/7 in case of emergency. Whether you want double-hung windows or a metal roof, they’ll provide what you’re looking for from their extensive product selection. To request service or get a free estimate, contact the team online or call (608) 348-2381.