Gutters are crucial to having a “healthy” house. Unfortunately, if you have old, leaky gutters, they are probably not doing their job. This means, water is most likely entering areas that can cause major damage!
So why do gutters leak? Gutters can leak along their length, at seams, at end caps, at changes in direction and at downspout connections. No matter what material is used for the gutters, leaks are most common at seams and changes in direction.
Leaks may be caused by:
- improper installation
- thermal expansion and contraction
- mechanical damage (i.e., the impact of ladders) *broken solder joints *dried caulking or adhesive *rusting or rotting of the gutter material
Look carefully at seams and along the bottom of gutters. Look at changes in direction and at downspout connections. Leaks are easy to find during or shortly after a rain, but may be difficult to identify if there has not been any rain recently. Staining or streaking may be helpful, but these may also suggest overflowing gutters.
Look for damage to fascia, soffits, siding and landscaping that suggests gutter problems. This includes moss, fungus, peeling paint and rot. On masonry walls, also look for deteriorated mortar.
“No matter what material is used for the gutters, leaks are most common at seams and changes in direction.”
If possible, stand on a ladder and gently push the bottom of the gutter with your hand. Firm resistance means that there’s a lot of metal remaining. Very little stiffness means that the gutter should be replaced soon. Be careful, as there’s sometimes not much more than the paint between you and the water. You may also cut yourself if your hand breaks through the metal.
If the idea of getting on a ladder doesn’t sound good to you, don’t do it. A maintenance free gutter system is the way to go! You will never have to worry about damaging water and you will never have to climb a ladder again! Contact Erie Construction for all of your home improvement needs.
Proper maintenance of gutter is really important, if the gutter s leaking it would spoil the wall and will damage the house. It is important to see that the gutter are properly installed for good water management.
A gutter is base of roof and gutters are the vital part which is always keep secure in our home. Gutters need a time to time improvement. Some of the small damages and leakages are occurred due to gutters.
Having a gutter structure installed around your house is required for good continuance. Main purpose behind the gutter systems is to help to flow of rainwater. If you are going to check gutter the best time is spring summer.