Gutter Troubles? Troubleshoot them like a Pro!

Cleaning gutters isn’t anyone’s favorite chore, but with spring —and its heavy rain—on the horizon, it’s a necessity. “Is it really that big of a deal?” you wonder. YES!  Left unchecked, gutter issues can cause significant structural damage to your home. 

Your gutter's job is to collect runoff water from your roof and redirect it from your foundation. They are constantly battling against the elements to keep that channel open and free of leaks or sags. If they become clogged or damaged, it’s important to get them fixed right away or risk expensive repairs down the road. 

We’re here to help you identify the most common gutter problems, how to fix them before it’s too late, and when it’s time to replace your gutters altogether. Here are some easy tips on gutter troubleshooting and how to tackle them before they become big repairs.  

Problem #1 Clogged Gutters 

Ever seen your gutters overflow like a waterfall after a heavy downpour? That's a surefire sign of clogged gutters. This is a pretty common issue, and there are some pretty easy solutions! 

First, clear out the debris: Grab your trusty scoop or hose and clear out the leaves, twigs, and debris clogging up the works.

Prevent Future Issues with Gutter Guards: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Shield your gutters with gutter guards to keep debris at bay and cut down on cleaning time in the future.

Problem #2 Leaking Gutters
Are your gutters leaking like a rusty old watering can? Time to plug those irritating leaks

Seal Leaks: Arm yourself with waterproof sealant and patch up those tiny leaks and cracks for good. 

Replacement Parts: Sometimes, it's best to bid adieu to the damaged sections and just replace the parts.

Problem #3 Sagging Gutters 

Noticed your gutters hanging low like tired old socks? It's a clear case of gutter sagging. 

Reinforce Hangers: Keep them snug against the fascia board with

 extra hangers or replacements.

Slope Adjustment: Straighten things out by ensuring your gutters have the right slope towards the downspouts for smooth water flow.

Problem #4 Misplaced Downspouts

Does water seem to be taking an unwanted detour towards your home's foundation? It's time to redirect those downspouts. 

Extend Downspouts: Give water a clear path away from your foundation with downspout extensions or trusty splash blocks.

Underground Solutions: Dig deep with underground drainage systems to redirect water away and keep your foundation safe and sound.

Problem #5 Ice Dam
The weather is unpredictable in Ohio. On a cold day, take note: Are icy formations creeping along your roof's edges, causing water to sneak indoors? Ice dams are the culprit. 

Boost Insulation: Keep your attic cozy with proper insulation and ventilation to ward off those chilly ice dams.

Heating Cables: Warm up to the idea of heating cables along your eaves to melt away ice and keep your roof leak-free during the frosty season.

DIY vs. Professional Assistance:

When it comes to gutter issues, many can be resolved with a bit of DIY effort and some basic tools. Simple tasks like clearing debris, adjusting downspouts, or sealing minor leaks are well within the capabilities of most DIYers.

However, for more complex problems such as extensive damage, significant sagging, or persistent leaks, it's best to call in a pro. If you're unsure about the severity of the issue or feel uncomfortable working at heights, safety should always come first, and seeking professional assistance is the wisest choice.

When to Replace Gutters Altogether:
Sometimes, despite your best efforts to maintain and repair them, gutters reach a point where replacement becomes necessary. Here are some signs that it might be time for a complete gutter overhaul:

Extensive Damage: If your gutters are showing widespread cracks, rust, or corrosion, and repairs just aren't cutting it anymore, it's probably time for new gutters.

Persistent Leaks: Despite your best efforts, if leaks keep popping up, it could indicate deeper issues that require a fresh start with a new gutter system.

Age: Gutters have a lifespan, typically ranging from 20-50 years depending on the material and maintenance. If your gutters are reaching the end of their life expectancy or showing significant wear and tear, replacement may be best.

Poor Functionality: If your gutters consistently fail to do their job, leading to water damage on your roof, siding, or foundation, it's a clear sign you’re due for an upgrade.

Remember, staying proactive with gutter maintenance and addressing issues quickly can save you from expensive damage down the line. When in doubt, don't hesitate to call a professional to check on your gutter system's condition.