Common Gutter Problems Every Homeowner Should Know About
The rain gutter is one of the home’s most important features―and it’s one that doesn’t always get the attention it needs. When gutters aren’t functioning properly, water can drain into your foundation. This can weaken the structure of your home over time. Here are some common issues to be on the lookout for so you can promptly resolve the situation before it escalates.
Should There Be Standing Water in My Gutters?
As it rains, your gutters should flow continuously. If water is sitting in the trough, then something is wrong. Usually, the problem is that there isn’t enough slope in the pitch. If the gutter isn’t appropriately angled, gravity can’t do its job.
Sometimes minor adjustments can alleviate this, but the problem may have been caused by improper installation. You may need a complete overhaul of the entire system to achieve proper drainage.
What Problems Can Clogged Gutters Cause?
Clogs are one of the most difficult gutter problems to detect because you may not realize the issue until it’s escalated. Because they’re so high up, gutters can become overrun with twigs and leaves, especially if you have a lot of trees in your yard. This debris can create obstructions in the flow, causing water to back up.
When water isn’t flowing out through the gutters, it can pool in areas that may cause harm to your home; namely the roof and the foundation. This type of damage threatens your home’s structural integrity.
Why Does My Gutter Overflow?
Overflowing may be the result of a few different problems. If you frequently have standing water due to an improper pitch, the rain may just run out of places to go, resulting in an overflow. When debris has caused too much water to back up in one area, it can start to spill out of the top once it gets full.
Another concern may be the positioning of the gutters themselves. If they’re angled too far outward, water may be flowing out because the gutter is directing it that way. It’s also possible that the troughs are too small to handle the excessive rain your area receives.
How Can I Fix These Problems?
Monitor your system closely so you can detect gutter issues early. It’s important to have them cleaned at least once a year, ideally before the rainy season hits full force. At All Exteriors, we can help you restore your home following gutter failures, with roof services and siding repairs. Contact us today to set up your service.
