The Top 4 Most Common Gutter Problems

You’ve Got Gutter Problems. We’ve Got Answers

No one claims that gutter maintenance is a fun task, even if it is a critical part of homeownership. It’s easy to skip taking care of your gutters, thinking that a good gutter cleaning can wait. Besides, who wants to spend their time off a ladder scooping leaves and twigs off the roof?

Unfortunately, a laissez-faire attitude toward your gutter system can lead to serious gutter problems. Not only can gutter problems lead to roof damage, but you could also weaken your home's foundation. As you can imagine, these are not easy or cheap issues to correct.

As the leading Lafayette roofing maintenance and installation company in the area, the Hibbard Roofing & Construction teamput together a quick guide on the top five most common gutter problems and how to fix them. Read on to learn more.

 The Top 4 Gutter Problems and Their Solutions

The gutters on your home have one main job: direct water away from your roof and foundation. They collect water from your roof and direct it safely away from your home. When unchecked, gutter problems can lead to cracked foundations, weakened roofs, mold, and other issues.

Dealing with problems early on can save you time, money, and headaches dealing with roof repair, property replacement, and more. Here are the most common gutter problems you can keep an eye out for in your home or business:

1. Sagging Gutters

When gutters do not have the proper pitch (angle), water will flow freely to the downspout and away from your home. A sagging gutter is when a section of your system drops out of alignment with the rest of the gutters. The extra weight and stress added to your gutter system can result in additional sagging or can even cause sections of your gutter system to collapse. Eventually, water will leak from the low point, eroding and rotting the wood in your eaves. The incorrect drainage will allow water to pool near your foundation, doors, and sidewalks, eventually breaking them down beyond repair.

The easiest solution to fixing sagging gutters is to rehang the drooping section with better hardware. You can sometimes simply tighten the screwing holding the hanger hardware in place. In more complex situations, you’ll need a professional to hire Lafayette residential roofing contractors to rehang the entire section.

2. Leaking Gutters

Gutters can leak for various reasons: sagging, puncture damage, clogs, etc. Most homeowners know to inspect their property and perform roofing maintenance after a massive storm, but they often overlook looking at their gutters. A leaking gutter allows water to go where it’s not supposed to, which can erode and damage everything it touches.

Finding leaks in gutters is not always easy, especially on a dry and sunny day. You want to inspect your gutters during or after storms to ensure that water drains correctly and there aren’t any leaks. You can also check for leaks when the weather is nice by adding water to your gutter system via a garden hose. This method allows you to review specific sections of your gutters.

A leak can quickly turn into a more giant hole or tear in your gutters, which can be too much to repair. In this instance, you’ll need to hire a professional to replace the damaged section.

If you find a small leak in your gutters, you can often fix it with a filler like plastic roofing cement or the appropriate caulk. Larger holes may require a patch.

3. Wrong Gutter Slope

It may be hard to see from the ground, but your gutters have a specific slope that helps guide water through the system. The proper pitch is typically one-quarter inch for every ten feet of gutters. When gutters have the wrong slope, it can lead to standing water in your gutter system or water pooling at the lowest point. Ultimately, your gutters won’t drain the way they are designed to.

Mistakes in your gutter slope are not easy problems to fix yourself. Without the proper experience or tools, the wrong gutter pitch can wreak havoc on your home. Too steep of an angle can force water to exit the downspout too forcefully, damaging your yard and landscaping. Too small of a pitch will render the gutters ineffective.

If you notice that your gutters are not draining correctly but there are no leaks or clogs, contact a professional gutter cleaner to investigate and correct the issues.

4. Clogged Gutters

Clogged gutters are the most common gutter problem homeowners face. As the seasons pass, leaves, twigs, and other debris can fill your gutters and block water from freely flowing through the system. Full gutters lead to drainage, overflowing, sagging, and other gutter problems.

Most Lafayette roofing experts agree that you should clean your gutters in the spring and fall. You can attempt DIY gutter cleaning with a ladder, some gloves, and some extra time. The benefit of hiring a roofing professional is that they can also inspect your gutter system and roof for other signs of wear and damage.

 Let Hibbard Roofing & Construction Correct Your Gutter Problems

The best way to avoid the most common gutter problems is to ensure that your gutter system is installed correctly and with high-quality materials. From there, proper gutter maintenance and care will ensure that your gutters do their job for years to come.

Whether you’re getting ready for new gutters on your property, need an inspection, or require gutter repair, trust Hibbard Roofing and Construction. We’re the leading roofing and construction company in the Lafayette. With our years of experience and excellent reviews, you can trust us with your roofing or gutter project. Give us a call for your free consultation today.