The pooling water and trapped moisture created by faulty gutters can damage your home. It can cause water damage throughout the structure that requires foundation, siding, and roof repair work in the future. Below are common problems you may experience with the gutters, as well as how to manage them until a contractor arrives.

What Are the Most Common Gutter Problems? 

1. Dents & Damage

Storms and wind can damage your gutters too, and the resulting dents and dings can cause them to clog more easily. When this happens, they’ll back up with water, which will seep into the roofing system, spread into the attic, and run down the siding.

You’ll need a professional to fix the gutters and roofing system but you can clean the gutters frequently to prevent overflows until then. 

2. Poor Downspout Drainage

Downspouts should angle the water away from the house. If the downspouts are too short, improperly angled, or aren’t at the proper slope, the water will pool against the home.

This will soak both the foundation and the soil around it. Until someone can replace the downspouts, zip-tie drainage piping or tubing to the end of the downspout and angle it far away from the home.

3. Ice Dams

Ice dams form when snow and ice melt and refreeze against the gutters. More moisture freezes against the layer of ice, forming an ice dam over time. The dam presses moisture back against the roofing and the structures under it, causing water damage that calls for a roof repair or replacement.

Meanwhile, the weight of the ice can pull the gutters away from the house. Clogged gutters are more prone to ice dams, so keep them clear. Also, make sure the fasteners and hardware securing your gutters are intact and tightened until a professional can analyze the problem.

4. Poor Gutter Slope

The slope or pitch of the gutter system is how much it’s angled downwards to direct water flow. If it’s not angled enough, water won’t flow out of the system, which leads to it overflowing and spilling out of the sides.

If it’s angled too much, the system is rendered inefficient, as it’s able to hold less water and is more susceptible to splash-over problems. Only a professional can remedy this issue.

Avoid future roof repairs by correcting gutter problems today. Diamond Restoration in Thornton, CO, is insured, licensed, bonded, and works on gutter, siding, and roofing systems. Their roofing contractor has over 15 years of experience, and they’ll walk you through every step of filing insurance claims to get your roof repairs covered. As a quality roofing company, they promise dependable work from a personable team with a commitment to excellence. Learn more about their services online, and call the roofing company at (303) 656-0811 for an estimate.