Your home’s gutters and leaders play a crucial role in directing rainwater and snowmelt away from the roof and foundation of your house. However, even with regular care, most gutters will eventually need to be replaced. Here is how you can tell when the time has come to install new gutters and leaders.

How to Tell Your Gutters Need to Be Replaced

1. Sagging or Pulling Away From the House

When your gutters begin to sag or pull away from your house, it’s clear that you need to replace your gutters. This often occurs after gutters get clogged, as excessive weight from water or ice can start to pull them down. Sagging gutters can damage your siding or pose a safety hazard if they fall. Avoid the need for gutter replacement by keeping up with gutter maintenance.

2. Damage to Other Parts of the Home

Water damage to areas around the gutters can sometimes indicate a problem, even before you notice any visible issues with the gutters themselves. Be on the lookout for peeling or bubbling paint along the siding, rotting exterior wood trim elements, and mildew growth around the foundation. Such issues likely indicate that the gutters are leaking or overflowing and require repair or replacement.

3. Cracks in the Gutters

Cracks or splits in the gutter system are relatively common as the system ages. These cracks are most commonly found around the seams connecting two horizontal sections. Cracks can quickly spread, disrupting water drainage and increasing the risk of damage to the fascia, shingles, and foundation. Cracks can sometimes be difficult to spot unless you see the water leaking during a rainstorm.

Whether you need to replace your gutters and leaders or wish to upgrade your siding, Home Works Home Improvement has you covered. Serving Long Island, NY since 1999, their certified contractors have earned 8 Angie’s List Superior Service Awards and an A+ BBB rating. To learn more about their home improvement services or to request a free in-home estimate, visit them online or call (631) 218-0241.