2 Signs That Your Gutters May Not Be Doing Their Job

In the fight against water damage, few parts of your home are as important as your gutters. Yet people often fail to realize just how much their gutters do--or how much underperforming gutters can hurt their house. If you would like to reduce the likelihood of expensive water damage, read on. This article will point out two important signs that your gutters may not be doing their job.

Cracked Undersides

It may seem elementary to point out that cracked gutters aren't able to contain water the way they should. Yet few people stop to consider the structural state of their gutters. It certainly doesn't help that gutters are so difficult to inspect. Fortunately, a pair of binoculars is the perfect tool for evaluating the state of your gutters. Be aware that cracks are most likely to form where two sections of gutter come together.

Medium or large sized cracks should be easy to spot in this way. Yet the real enemy are hairline cracks that can be very hard to see in dry weather, no matter how powerful your binoculars. Instead, head outside with your binoculars the next time it rains, and inspect the underside of your gutters for drips.

Roofing cement is what you'll need to repair any cracks detected in this manner. For the best protection, use the cement on both the inside and the outside of the cracked section, taking care to apply it to the full length of the crack. While most cracks can be repaired in this way, be aware that excessive amounts of damage are likely a sign that your gutters are old, brittle, and ready to be replaced. 

Damaged Exterior Paint

No matter how vigilant you are, there will always be some cracks that manage to escape your detection. Reading the paint on the exterior of your home is another great way to detect areas where unregulated water flow may be causing problems. Take a trip around your house, keeping your eye out for any areas where the paint seems to be flaking, bubbling, or peeling.

Such paint problems are generally the result of water running down the side of your house--and thus a strong sign that there is something wrong with the gutter directly above. Even if you don't notice such damage, take a moment to inspect your home the next time it rains. If you notice any damp patches of paint, it may be the case that a leak has recently formed. Inspect the gutters above and repair any cracks as necessary.

For more information, contact a rain gutter contractor in your area.