Gutter systems could last for two to three decades. Despite that, they may still need repairs. The initial step to extend the life of your gutter is by cleaning it regularly. In case they are already damaged, you may have them either repaired or replaced.

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The main factor to determine if you need to replace or repair your gutters is the extent of the damage. In case you just have one or a couple of trouble spots, these may be easy to fix. However, if you have already tried to repair the problem before but it keeps on coming back or there are multiple sections of your gutters that are giving you problems, it would be better to lessen your problems by replacing them immediately.

In case you don’t feel that comfortable in making the call on your own, you may seek assistance from a reputable professional. That person will check out the gutters and provide you with an assessment. However, companies that install new gutters can also repair existing gutters. Because of this, you may hear them making a sales pitch that recommends getting new gutters.

In case you are confident and you only want to have them repaired, you can make several calls and acquire multiple estimates.  This job can also be good for a handyman as they will likely provide you with a great price compared to a person who wants to sell a brand new system.

Common problems of the gutter

Since gutters have a design that is relatively simple, there are only a few ways they can fail. The following are the highly likely causes for gutter damage which includes the ways on how you can have them repaired

Sag

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Whenever you notice that the gutters are pulling away or leaning down from the house, you must act immediately so you can avoid the total collapse of the gutter and rotting fascia board. It is highly likely for your gutter to sag because of a broken spike or hanger. Have the problem area inspected and replace any broken hardware if necessary. Instead of the hammer-in you may buy the screw-in spikes that can help whenever the spike holes become loose and worn.

It is also possible for the gutter to sag because of the excess weight. This may come from undue stress because of a leaning ladder on the gutters or the expansion of ice over the winter. This needs to get cleaned out immediately. In case permanent warping is evident, you may have to replace that section of the gutter. If you’re not able to do this, you may end up replacing the whole system which may depend on the extent of the damage.

Blockage

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The gutters may get clogged with debris which includes build up from unnatural materials such as tennis balls and natural materials like wood and leaves. Whenever you notice that there is mildew near the foundation or there is pooling water or water marks under the gutters, it is highly likely that the gutters are overflowing that they need to get cleaned out. Try not to think only about the horizontal. It is also possible that the downspout is blocked.

Poor Pitch

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It is meant for gutters to have a slope towards the downspout that is imperceptible which is around 1/16 to 1/8 inch of every foot to allow the water to flow. In case the water is pooling in the gutters even if there is no blockage, it may be because the gutters are not pitched properly. This may be because the installation of the gutter got completed poorly or it can be due to house settling. It can be difficult to identify this problem but it is essential to address pooling water immediately as it may cause corrosion or create a breeding ground for unwanted pests like the mosquito.

Adjusting the gutter pitch requires delicate work because you need to maintain an angle that is precise and in a straight line over the gutter’s long stretches. The homeowner may complete the repairs but it would be better to hire a handyman for the job . This will allow you to make sure that the job is done correctly and the problem is properly fixed.

Leaks

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Whenever the gutters aren’t blocked but water still escapes, that may be because of a leak. Sometimes, a leak opens the joints found in between the sections of the gutter. This may simply get resealed. There may be times when a leak develops through a crack in the gutter because of damages such as corrosion. You may have these leaks patched up but since it is already a weak spot, it is likely that this may become a recurring problem.

How do you repair gutters?

Most homes have gutters that help to protect against water damage by directing rainwater away from the foundation. Over time, however, gutters can become clogged with leaves and debris, causing them to overflow and leading to water damage. If you notice that your gutters are beginning to leak, it’s important to take action quickly. The first step is to remove any debris that is blocking the flow of water. Once the gutters are clear, you can check for any cracks or holes. These can usually be repaired with caulk or a sealant. If the damage is more severe, you may need to replace the affected section of the gutter. By taking these steps, you can help to prevent water damage and keep your home in good condition.

For more information or a Free Estimate, you may call RB Farina Roofing at (781) 648-5446. The company has been providing highly reliable roofing service in Massachusetts since the year 1984. We are fully licensed and insured and is ranked in the top 4% of the licensed contractors in the state. For a personal consultation, you may also visit us at 1319 Massachusetts Ave, Arlington, MA 02476. Contact Us Today!