A reliable gutter system will protect you from getting soaked in water or damaging items when walking around your house. Also, dripping water from your gutters can cause soil and debris to splash against your home's siding. Your walls will become dirty, creating an eye sore. Moreover, the paint may peel off in some parts, forcing you to repaint your house often and thereby incur unnecessary costs.
Here are three reasons you should replace your gutters immediately.
Shifting Foundation
Damaged gutters will cause water to leak and collect around your foundation. The puddles of water will exert excessive pressure on your foundation walls, causing them to crack and sink. Also, some areas have expansive soils that contain water-absorbing minerals. As the minerals absorb water, they will cause the soil to increase in volume. The soil will push on the foundation, leading to cracks on the walls or the floor.
When dry weather kicks in, the soil will dry out and shrink. This expansion and contraction cycle will stress your foundation, leading to a shifting foundation or even collapse. Moreover, pools of water around your foundation can cause soil erosion, depleting the soil supporting your foundation. Signs of foundation issues due to water damage include uneven floors, drywall cracks, and cracked concrete floors.
Wall, Ceiling, and Roof Damage
Water can leak through cracks in the gutters or the seams. The water will get to your walls and cause peeling paint. So, you should check your home's exterior siding for any signs of damage. Also, water may leak into your roof, ceiling, and attic. This problem will cause the wood in these structures to get wet and expand. Later, the wood will dry and contract, leading to a constant cycle that will weaken the material, compromising your home's structural integrity.
To repair the cracks in the gutters, a professional will wire-brush the damaged area to eliminate dirt and loosen rust. Then, the specialist will patch the spot with sheet metal. Aluminum sheets are suitable for most types of gutters.
Mold Issues
You may notice water damage on your exterior walls due to leaking gutters. However, the water can also get inside your walls, triggering mold growth. The mold can spread quickly into your home, weakening your walls and compromising indoor air quality.
Your gutter professional should examine the fittings for leaks. If the holes are small, the expert can apply a bit of plastic roofing on the affected area using a putty knife. For larger holes, the pro may cut a flashing strip to cover the damaged part and then secure it using cement.
For more info, turn to a company like Austin Company.
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