As the leaves start to fall, more homeowners find themselves up on a ladder cleaning their gutters. This is also a great time to inspect your gutters for damage, loose fittings, missing screws, holes, or other signs of wear. And chances are, you’re going to spot something that needs fixing. Which begs the question: When is the right time to replace your gutters?
The “right” answer ultimately depends on the condition of your gutters. If they’re full of holes or coming off the house, it’s better to replace them as soon as possible instead of waiting for the ideal time. But if your gutters are still mostly functional and it’s time to upgrade, summer and fall are the ideal times to schedule a replacement. Here’s why.
Signs You Need New Gutters
If you have any of the following signs, you may need gutter replacement:
- Your gutters are sagging or pulling away from your home.
Sagging gutters allow water to pool in certain areas instead of directing it toward the downspout. This can cause gutters to overflow.
Water can damage your foundation, erode your landscaping, and cause mold and mildew to grow inside your home. Gutters that are in good condition will divert water away from these areas, protecting your investment.
If you’re not sure whether your gutters need to be replaced, take a close look at them next time it rains. If you see water spilling over the sides or puddling in the middle, it’s time for new ones.
- You see cracks or holes in your gutters.
Water will leak through cracks and holes, which defeats the purpose of having gutters. The gutters won’t be able to direct the water away from your home, which can lead to foundation issues. - You see rust on your gutters.
If your home has gutters that are old and rusty, it’s time to replace them. Not only are rusty gutters unsightly, but they can also cause serious damage to your home. Water that collects in gutters can leak into your home, causing mold and mildew to grow. Rust can also cause gutters to sag and pull away from your home, which can lead to expensive repairs.
Why Replace Your Gutters in the Fall
When your gutters need to be replaced, try to choose a dry season for replacement. Wetter seasons, like winter and spring, can put a damper on your replacement plans. You need your gutters to be in tip-top shape to hold the influx of rain, snow, and ice and direct it away from your home. Plus, if your gutters are already in bad shape, you’ll want to replace them before the harsh winter weather can take a toll. Your gutters may not survive another cold, wet season before they fail altogether.
Making Gutter Replacement a Top Priority
Gutters that are in bad condition can allow water to leak into your home, which can lead to serious water damage. They also play a role in preventing ice dams. Ice dams can form when water from melting snow leaks into your gutters and then freezes. This can cause damage to your gutters and even your roof.
Replacing your gutters now can save you money in the long run by preventing expensive repairs that may be necessary if they continue to deteriorate.
At Alabama Roofing Professionals, we’re committed to helping you maintain the integrity of your home. Contact us today for a free quote and consultation!
