Signs Your Gutters Need to Be Inspected by a Professional

 

After a storm passes, it’s crucial to inspect your gutters for potential damage. Gutters play a vital role in directing rainwater away from your roof and foundation, preventing water damage to your home. If they’re compromised, even a minor storm can lead to major issues down the line. Here's a look at the common signs that your gutters may need inspection after a storm.

 

1. Sagging or Drooping Gutters

One of the most obvious signs of gutter damage after a storm is sagging or drooping gutters. If your gutters are no longer aligned properly or are hanging away from the roofline, it’s a sign that they have likely been weighed down by debris, excess water, or even broken fasteners during the storm. Sagging gutters can lead to water spilling over the edges, which defeats the purpose of proper drainage and can cause water damage to your home.

 

2. Visible Cracks or Holes

Inspect your gutters closely after a storm of cracks, holes, or breaks. Extreme weather can cause gutters to become brittle or even crack, especially if they’re old, seamed, or a material other than metal like vinyl or PVC. Even small cracks can allow water to leak, which can lead to erosion of the soil around your foundation, mold growth, or damage to the structure of your home. If you find any visible holes, it’s time to replace the affected sections.

 

3. Water Pooling Around Your Home’s Foundation

If you notice water pooling around your home’s foundation or in your yard after a storm, your gutters might be clogged, broken, or misaligned. When gutters are compromised, they fail to direct water away from the foundation, leading to water seepage into the basement or crawl space. This can lead to long-term structural damage, mold growth, and even foundation issues. If water isn’t flowing freely from your gutters, it's time to get them inspected for potential damage.

 

4. Overflowing Gutters

During heavy rains, your gutters should channel the water safely away from the roof and foundation. However, if your gutters are overflowing after a storm, it’s a sign that they may be clogged with debris like leaves, twigs, or even broken sections. Clogs prevent water from flowing freely and can lead to the gutters pulling away from the house due to added weight. If you notice your gutters overflowing consistently, it’s time for cleaning or a more thorough inspection to check for the underlying damage.

 

5. Loose or Missing Fasteners

Your gutters are secured to the roofline by fasteners such as hangers or brackets. After a storm, it’s important to check if any of these fasteners have become loose, bent, or broken. If your gutters are detached from the house or have missing fasteners, they won’t function properly and may continue to worsen with every storm. It's essential to have any loose or missing fasteners replaced to ensure your gutters stay securely in place.

 

6. Gutter Sections That Have Separated

Gutter sections can come apart after a storm if they’ve been stressed by high winds, hail, or debris. If you notice that the sections of your gutters are no longer connected or that a piece has fallen off entirely, it’s a sign of potential damage. Even if the gutter system looks mostly intact, small separations can result in water leakage, leading to damage to your home’s exterior.

 

7. Peeling Paint or Rust

For homes with metal gutters, storm damage can lead to rust spots, peeling paint, or corrosion. Prolonged exposure to water due to leaks or overflow can exacerbate these issues. If you notice rust or peeling paint on your gutters after a storm, it’s essential to address it as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration. In some cases, you may need to replace the affected gutters entirely.

 

8. Presence of Debris Inside the Gutters

After a storm, gutters often collect leaves, twigs, and other debris. While this is common, large amounts of debris left inside your gutters can create blockages and prevent proper water flow. This leads to overflow and can increase the risk of further damage. If debris is still stuck inside your gutters after a storm, it’s a sign that they may need professional cleaning or replacement.

 

Conclusion

Gutters play a vital role in protecting your home from water damage, especially during and after a storm. Regular inspection and after a certain period, replacement, can save you from costly damage and ensure your gutters continue to do their job efficiently. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above after a storm, it’s important to address them quickly to avoid further damage. Consult a professional to assess your gutters and keep your home safe from water-related issues.