Transforming the look of our home with a new roof

Posted on: 30 July 2020

Gutters are the type of fixtures you don't realise the importance of till they start malfunctioning. One afternoon of heavy rain will remind you how important it's to have a healthy, functional gutter system. On the opposite scale of this, living in a rainy, tropical area may make you particularly anxious when you see your gutter system fail.

In such a case, it can be tempting to want to replace an entire set based on blemishes on the metal or bumps in the pipes. However, it's important to remember that gutters are made from copper or galvanised steel, which will not corrode easily. Therefore, you'll only want to change your gutter if you experience one of the following.

Signs Of Cracks And Rust

The acid often present in rainwater may slowly weaken the gutter metal and lead to visible damage in the long run. If you notice cracks, holes or significant rust, you may want to contract a professional inspection. With time, these cracks are likely to accommodate mould and grow bigger, leading to leakages of bacteria-rife water. This water can stagnate in your gutter and lead to unpleasant smells.

If you notice several sections that have suffered severe corrosion, you may need more than a coat of sealant. Generally, advanced corrosion will lead the fasteners to break as the metal weakens. This will cause a gap between your roof and gutter, making it unlikely for rainwater to flow into the pipes effectively.

Displaced Parts and Separation Between Gutters

Your guttering system will only work efficiently if all required components are connected properly. This creates a continuous channel through which rainwater can flow without impregnating the foundations of your house. The more frequently parts of your gutter separate from the entire structure, the more likely you're to need an urgent replacement in case of heavy rain or snowfall.

If you've regularly had to refasten your gutters to the roof, it may be a sign that the fascia boards have irreversible damage. The more the boards rot, the more fragile your refastening will be. By getting a professional gutter replacement, you will also get your fascia boards treated, which will prevent the mould from spreading to your roofing.

A Final Word

Gutter replacements aren't complicated repair or maintenance projects. However, due to the investment they'll require, you'll want to check for signs of advanced damage or corrosion before you replace the entire system. A little rust doesn't mean the whole system is likely to collapse any time soon. However, a separation between gutter parts, vertical gutter pipes being separated from the roof and cracks in the metal all suggest a need for swift action. If you aren't certain whether your gutter problems are serious enough to require an immediate replacement, request an inspection from your local roofers.