The Northwest faces lots of heavy and constant rainfall and the toll it takes can be very harsh on your home’s gutter system. Lots of people don’t realize all the factors that cause damage to your gutter system, which is why it is so important to be on the lookout for when damages do arise. Guardian Roofing and Gutter Installation is committed to helping you repair and install the best gutters to make your home more safe and protected. We want to help you become more proactive in ensuring your gutters are working properly, so here are 7 of the top gutter problems in the Northwest to look out for:
- Leaks
When a gutter springs a leak, it can eventually turn into a major issue if the problem is ignored. There are several culprits that cause leaks to be aware of. Loose fasteners are one of the causes of leaky gutters. When a gutter is fastened to a roof with items such as hangers or screws, they can pop out of place over time. As water runs off the roof, it can flow over the rear edge of the gutter and the fascia boards.Cracks and holes are two other common reasons behind gutter leaks. You’ll most commonly find both cracks and holes where fasteners pass through the metal.
Make sure you’re routinely checking for leaks and seek consultation and guidance from a roofing and gutter professional like Guardian Roofing.
- Gutter Joint Separation
If the gutters are pulling apart from one another, this is a common problem that is typically caused by clogs and debris accumulation. The joint areas of the gutters are vulnerable to separation due to the weight of water and clogs in the system.
Keep in mind that caulk or glue typically isn’t strong enough to join two gutter pieces back together. You’ll need to use rivets for separated gutter sections. This is accomplished by drilling holes in overlapping edges in the sections and inserting 1/8th-inch rivets. This will secure the joints together securely. It is advised to seek professional help on how to fix gutter joint separation. You may need new gutters completely, so make sure to contact us at Guardian Roofing and Gutter Installation for our services.
- Improper Slope
Many homeowners don’t give a second thought about gutter slope. The gutter slope is essential to the overall functioning of the system—and an incorrect slope can cause a myriad of problems.The gutter slope, otherwise known as the pitch, is the amount the gutters slant downward to direct the path of water flow. If the gutter slope isn’t properly positioned, it will pool in the system and spill over the sides.If the slope is slanted too sharply, the gutters can’t function at full capacity.The general rule is to slope the gutters at 1/4th-inch per 10 feet of gutters.
It is best advised to have a trained professional come to your home and check the gutter slope. Our team at Guardian Roofing can give you a consultation and determine if the gutter slope at your home is functioning properly or not.
- Bad Downspout Draining
Not only do your gutters need to be sloped at a precise angle, but the downspouts need specific direction as well. If downspouts drain too close to the home, this can also result in pooling water around the home.
When installing downspouts to your gutter system, be sure that they extend several feet from your home. Otherwise, they’ll dump water right into your basement or pool on the ground beside the foundation. Make sure to be checking for pooling water, this means that the downspouts are likely to be causing problems around your home. For downspout gutter troubles, contact us at Guardian Roofing so we can help repair or install new gutters for your home.
- Gardens Growing in your Gutter
If gutters are filled with debris, seeds, and bird droppings, this combination can turn into plants growing in the gutter system. If your home has access to sunlight with plenty of rain, you’ll have your very own gutter garden with zero effort on your part.
While this is a somewhat comical visual, the truth is that vegetation in the gutters is no laughing matter. It can weigh down the gutters, causing the joints to separate or even clog the entire system. Gardens in gutters are one of the leading gutter problems in the Northwest, so you’re going to want to be on the lookout for debris and other plants that could be interfering with your gutters.
The solution to this is easy in theory but time-consuming: keep your gutters clean. Make sure to check your gutters as much as possible and maintain them the best you can so they are nice and garden-free.
- Ice Dams
This is one of the most serious issues with gutters, specifically for homeowners in cold climates like the Northwest.
Ice dams are the result of snow melting off your roof and collecting in the gutter system. When the water hits the gutter, it freezes. The ice continues to compile and an ice dam is born.
Ice dams can weigh down the gutters and pull them away from your home. Not only does this leave you needing gutter repairs, you’ll need to take action to fix your roof and properly insulate your attic to avoid further problems. Ice dams are very serious and can cause numerous issues to your home. Don’t wait and call Guardian Roofing for help and consultation on ice dam removal and gutter installation.
- Clogged Gutters
Aside from leaky gutters, this is perhaps one of the most common problems with gutters. Gutters can easily clog up with just about anything that blows around in the wind. You’ll commonly find insects, leaves, pine needles, and other plant life.
When water cannot flow through the gutters properly, it becomes clogged and can add excessive weight to the system. This can wreak havoc on the gutters and the roof, which can result in cracks, separation of joints, gardens growing in the gutter, and a number of other problems.
It is so important to maintain your gutters very regularly and check for any clogs. Especially with the weather in the Northwest it is vital to be on the lookout for clogged gutters and to clean them out. If you don’t clean your gutters out you will be faced with many more problems in your home.
These are the top 7 gutter problems to be on the lookout for in the Northwest. Make sure to check your gutters consistently and be on top of these issues. Don’t hesitate, and call Guardian Roofing and Gutter Installation for help on all things gutters!
If your home needs new gutters, gutter components, or gutter protection, contact Guardian Roofing today by calling 877-926-9966, or requesting your FREE estimate online. Our friendly team of experts is standing by, ready to help you find the best solution to fit your home’s needs.
