Gutters are an integral part of your home’s exterior, but they can be the source of a lot of frustration if not properly maintained. Clogged or broken gutters can cause serious damage to your roof, siding, foundation, and landscape. That’s why it is so important to stay on top of gutter maintenance and repair any issues that may arise quickly. Here are the four most common gutter problems homeowners face and what you can do to prevent them from occurring in the first place.
1. Clogged Gutters
The most common gutter problem is clogging due to debris buildup, such as leaves and twigs. This can cause water to overflow or back up in your gutters, leading to costly damages like rotting wood or foundation issues. You should clean out your gutters at least twice a year (in the fall before winter and in the spring after winter) or install a clog-free K-Guard system that will prevent debris from entering your system.
2. Poor Slope and Pitch
Improperly pitched or sloped gutters can actually be worse than having no gutters at all! If your gutter isn’t angled correctly, it won’t move rainwater away from your home, resulting in flooding and water damage. Make sure your gutters are properly pitched so the water flows away from your home’s foundation.
3. Loose Hangers
Gutters are held up by hangers, which can become loose over time due to wear and tear. If the hangers come undone, your gutters could start sagging or even fall off completely! That’s why at Bluff City Gutters, we use patented, high-strength hangers made from strong, all-weather polymers.
4. Rusting Metal
Older homes may have galvanized steel gutters that are more susceptible to rusting over time. This can lead to leaks and deterioration of the metal itself. If you notice signs of rust on your gutters you should consider replacing them with our heavy-duty aluminum gutters that won’t corrode, and coatings guaranteed to last a lifetime.
How can you avoid these common gutter problems?
By taking the necessary steps to maintain and repair your gutter system, you can avoid costly repairs and make sure rainwater is flowing away from your home properly. If you find yourself in need of a new gutter system or have any other questions about gutter maintenance, connect with one of our gutter experts. Give us a call today at 901-949-5624! We’d be happy to help.
