How do I know when it’s time to replace my gutters? - Total Pipeline Systems

Your gutters are a vital part of your home, and it’s important you maintain them properly. But when was the last time you checked them, or even gave them a second thought?

Although it might be the last thing on your mind, you shouldn’t underestimate their significance.

When in full working order, they re-direct rainwater and ice and snow that are melting away from your property, keeping floods at bay and preventing costly water damage.

But how can you tell when it’s time for a replacement?

Here are a couple of things you should be looking out for.

Not sure if your gutters need replacing? Here are some things to look out for

Cracks and splits

It’s important to check your gutters regularly, making sure to keep an eye out for any cracks and splits in the plastic.

Large breaks should be addressed immediately, but this isn’t to say that it’s fine to ignore smaller splits – because they’ll only grow bigger, especially during colder weather.

Water turns to ice inside the fractures, causing them to expand and grow larger.

Sagging gutters

If you notice your gutters starting to sag or pull away, it’s usually a sign that the brackets are loose.

Most of the time, this is due to a build-up of debris (e.g., leaves) that hasn’t been cleared for a long while.

It’s vital that you check your gutters for debris, especially in the autumn and winter months, ensuring they’re clear from blockages.

Rusting and moulding

One of the easiest tell-tale signs that your gutters are no longer working the way they should, is mould in your attic or on your ceiling.

Mould thrives in areas that are poorly ventilated or damp, and the issue will only grow worse the longer you leave it – potentially causing health issues like asthma and other airway problems – so it’s important you get your gutters looked at sooner rather than later.

Soil erosion

If you’ve noticed that the soil in your garden has suddenly become less dense, this might be a sign that it’s getting too much water.

If your gutters are broken, water will begin to leak into your garden, ruining the green of your lawns and having potentially huge impacts on your home’s foundations.

When excess moisture seeps into the soil underneath your home, this will cause the foundations of your property to shift or crack – and when foundations are compromised, huge, costly problems can arise.

Choose Total Pipeline Systems for all your guttering supplies

When it comes to replacing part of your gutters, look no further than Total Pipes for your guttering supplies.

With various shapes and sizes to choose from, you’re bound to find something that suits your specific requirements.

If you have any queries, concerns, or want to know more about our range of guttering supplies, be sure to get in touch with our experts by calling 01282 222 077, we’re more than happy to help.