As house owners, many of us struggle to know if some of the structures of our home are properly installed or if their performance is far from optimal. It is difficult to stay on top of every detail when we are not experts in some of these areas.
Rain gutters are key elements in the house’s structures in the Seattle area, as they move the water away from the structure, preventing water damage to the building and its surroundings. Determining if gutters are working properly is crucial to prevent potential water damage and maintain the integrity of your property.
Here’s how to assess their functionality:
How to know if my gutters are working properly
Watch for the following signs to find out if your gutters are in good condition:
- Visual Inspection
- Overflow
- Downspouts Flow
- Sagging Gutters
- Leaks or Holes
- Stagnant Water
- Exterior Damage
- Foundation Issues
- Mold or Mildew
- Gutter Cleanliness
- Visual Inspection: Regularly check the gutters during or after a rainstorm. Water should flow smoothly through the gutters and downspouts without overflowing or pooling around the foundation. Rain drops in the outside of the gutter are normal due to condensation, but bigger amounts of water might not be so.
- Overflow: Gutters should not overflow even during heavy rainfall. If you notice water spilling over the edges, it indicates that you might have a clog or that the size of the gutter in that particular area doesn’t have the necessary capacity. Some gutter covers can have this effect, when there are places where the amount of water that runs from the roof is too much or too fast and the inadequate gutter guard has been installed in the gutter.
- Downspouts Flow: Ensure that water is being effectively channeled away from the building through the downspouts. Water should exit at least 5-10 feet away from the foundation to prevent basement flooding. It is very important to check the underground drains are working properly in those downspouts that are connected to this underground system.
- Sagging Gutters: Check for sagging or uneven gutters. Sagging can lead to improper drainage and potential water accumulation in certain areas. If the gutters have nails pulling out or you find the nails in the floor, it is time to replace your gutters. Gutters installed with nails are usually over 20 years old, and if they are falling it means they are reaching the end of their life span.
- Leaks or Holes: Inspect gutters for visible leaks, holes, or rust. Leaks can cause water to escape, and they happen in the joints of the gutter: miter corners or joints between seams.
- Stagnant Water: If you notice standing water or debris accumulation in the gutters after rainfall, it’s a sign of the gutter not draining properly. This could be because of clogs, which means your gutters are due for a gutter cleaning service. Another reason that can lead to this is the improper gutter slope, which might cause the incomplete drainage of the water into the downspouts.
- Exterior Damage: Look for signs of water damage, like peeling paint, or mildew on the exterior of your property, especially near the gutter system. Other signs are pools in the soil close to certain areas or damage in the garden structures.
- Foundation Issues: Cracks in the foundation or a shifting foundation can sometimes result from poor drainage caused by malfunctioning gutters or clogged underground drains.
- Mold or Mildew: Mold growth in the fascia boards or walls of the house could indicate water is causing damage due to gutter issues.
- Gutter Cleanliness: Regularly clean the gutters of debris, leaves, and other objects. If cleaning is becoming frequent, it could suggest a design issue or inadequate gutter protection.
Keep Your Gutters Working Properly
Remember to keep your gutter maintenance schedule one or two times a year to prevent clogs and detect any issue before it causes any costly issues. You can consider installing gutter guards or screens to prevent debris buildup and make regular cleaning easier.
Finally, hire a professional to inspect your gutters when in doubt. They can identify potential problems and offer solutions.
In Seattle’s rainy climate, where gutters are crucial for effective water management, proper gutter maintenance is essential. By regularly assessing their functionality and promptly addressing any issues, you can ensure your gutters are working efficiently to protect your property from water-related damage.
