Gutter Time: Signs of Deterioration

Gutters and downspouts are integral to your roofing system and your home’s structural integrity in general. Most homeowners don’t notice, but gutters significantly help in reducing the risks involved with moisture and rain, like preventing moisture buildup around your home’s main structural supports by diverting the flow of water away from them, and lessening the risks of forming invasive growths like algae and mildew around the edges of your roof and in your basement. But even the most well-maintained gutters and downspouts are subject to the effects of wear and tear, and roofing repair experts from Pawcatuck Roofing Company. share the signs of a failing gutter in this post. 

Cracks

Cracks and gaps, no matter how big or small, are blatant signs that your gutter needs repair or replacement. As these systems are designed to direct water (which is in a liquid state and can easily penetrate through the smallest openings), these cracks and gaps defeat the purpose of having the system installed in the first place, as water can trickle down the side of your home like how it trickles down your arms after you wash your face in the sink. In the worst case, cracked gutters can collapse completely during a storm, leaving your home vulnerable to moisture-related risks.

Compromised Seams

Gutters are horizontal and connect from point to point in areas called seams. These seams are the most vulnerable points as these are where two sections meet, where they are attached physically, and through constant exposure and wear and tear, the bond between the two horizontal sections starts to deteriorate and weaken. Once this happens, the separation of the sections becomes even more apparent, letting water flow off where it shouldn’t be. One of the best solutions to this is getting seamless gutters, which you can ask your trusted roofing contractor about.

Rot in the Exterior

Water and moisture are the leading causes of rot in organic building materials like wood. When your gutter isn’t properly diverting water off course, it can trickle down the siding, windowsill, and other exterior parts of your house. When this happens, moisture punches into the smallest cracks and gaps in the surface of the wood, settling inside the structure and causing rot to settle in. Before this happens, replace your gutter immediately (especially before the rainy season)!

 Need a team to help with your roof replacement? Pawcatuck Roofing Co. has provided professional roofing contractor services for homeowners and commercial property owners since 1946. As one of the oldest, largest, and most respected contractors in our service areas, we take pride in the results of our workmanship and the satisfaction of our customers. For any inquiries, you can reach us at (860) 940-2343 or fill out our contact form to request an estimate. We proudly serve clients and homeowners in New London, Connecticut and Rhode Island.