If you’ve noticed your gutters looking worse for wear these days with rust, leaks, and other issues, you may be wondering if it’s time to replace them. I’m here to help you decide! As a professional gutter installer with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen it all when it comes to gutter repair versus replacement. Keep reading and I’ll walk you through the key signs that your gutters are beyond repair and need replacing.

When to Consider Gutter Replacement

Gutters, just like any other part of your home, wear out over time. Here are some of the most common signs that your gutters are no longer functioning properly and replacement should be considered:

Leaking Gutters

This is one of the most obvious red flags. If you notice water dripping from your gutters even when it’s not raining or see water damage on surrounding areas like peeling fascia paint, it’s a clear indication of a leak. I’ve been called to many homes over the years with huge interior water stains on walls and ceilings from gutter leaks the homeowners didn’t know they had. Don’t let it get to this point! Persistent leaking can cause foundation issues over time.

Gutters Pulling Away from the Home

If you notice sections of gutter pulling away from the fascia board or sagging down, this is bad news. Often, this happens because the gutters weren’t properly secured during the initial installation. But age and wear can cause the gutter spikes or hangers to detach as well. These separated areas then collect water and debris, leading to more leaks and damage. Call J and D Handyman to schedule an appointment. ☎️540-270-5564

Rusting Gutters 

Gutters made of steel or aluminum will eventually start to rust after years of exposure to the elements. At first it may just look like some ugly orange stains. But over time, the rust can eat right through the metal causing leaks and deterioration. I’ve seen some rusted gutters so fragile I could poke a hole right through them with my finger! Rust also leaves stains on the exterior of your home that are difficult to remove. 

Sagging Gutters

If your gutters are sagging in areas and collecting pools of water even when it’s not raining, that’s a problem. Gutters are designed to slope slightly to direct water into downspouts and away from your home. When they start to sag, water gets trapped and can cause interior leaks, fascia rot, and overflow into areas where you don’t want water collecting.

Signs It’s Time for a Gutter Replacement

If you’re noticing any of the following, it’s likely time to replace those worn-out gutters:

• – Frequent clogs and overflow, even after cleaning
• – Visible rust and holes
• – Leaks during rain/snow storms
• – Gutters pulling away from the roofline
• – Water damage inside home and on exterior
• – Gutters and downspouts sagging 
• – Constant need for gutter repairs

As the saying goes “if in doubt, rip it out.” If your gutters are more than 20 years old, a replacement is likely a smart investment. Newer gutters will save you headaches and prevent more costly damage down the road.

A Cautionary Tale

I’ll never forget the call I got from a longtime customer named Alan. He had ignored leaks and other gutter issues for years before finally calling me. By the time I came out, the fascia and soffit were rotted right through! Squirrels had even made a home inside the walls. The repairs were extensive and cost well over $6000. Don’t make Alan’s mistake—if you suspect your gutters need replacing, act sooner rather than later!

The Benefits of New Gutter Installation

Replacing worn-out gutters has many advantages beyond just fixing existing problems.

– Prevent fascia, soffit, foundation, and landscaping damage from proper water runoff control

– Enhance curb appeal with new gutters that complement your home’s style  

– Potentially lower homeowners insurance premiums by reducing risk of water damage claims

– Avoid major expenses related to foundation repairs needed from water issues over time

I recommend using high quality materials like aluminum or copper gutters and gutter guards to increase longevity of the new system. And be sure to hire a qualified professional to ensure proper installation.

Taking a proactive approach by replacing faulty gutters can save you a whole lot of trouble down the road. Protect your biggest investment—your home—with an updated gutter system designed to keep water where it belongs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do gutters last?

With proper maintenance, most aluminum and copper gutters will last 20-25 years before needing replacement. Cheaper steel gutters tend to start having major issues after 10-15 years. 

How much does it cost to replace gutters? 

Gutter replacement costs range from $8-$18 per linear foot on average, with factors like material, labor, and home size impacting overall cost. Expect to pay $1200-$2500 for a full gutter replacement on a typical single family home.

Should I clean my gutters before replacing them?

Yes, it’s smart to clean out your gutters one last time before replacement to allow for proper assessment of any damage and accurate measurements for the new gutters.

Are there financing options for new gutters?

Many gutter companies offer financing options like 0% interest loans. Home improvement loans or equity loans also can finance a gutter replacement project.

Should I go with open or closed gutters? 

This depends on your climate and preferences. Open gutters without gutter guards clog more easily from leaf debris. But closed gutters with guards still require some maintenance. Assess your needs and landscape when deciding.

Take Action!

If your gutters are causing any of the problems outlined above, I strongly recommend scheduling a professional gutter inspection right away. They can assess the extent of the issues and determine if replacement is the best solution. Don’t wait until major water damage occurs! Take control now to protect your home’s exterior and interior.