Common Gutter Problems & Solutions

When they are working correctly, gutters typically don’t get very much attention. When they’re doing their job, they drain excess water off the roof and into the ground to help avoid water damage, mold, and other roofing problems. When they’re not working correctly, it can lead to significant roof damage. Here are some common gutter problems that many homeowners face—and how to solve them. 

Clogged Gutters 

One of the most common and easy to fix gutter problems is a clogged gutter. Leaves, debris, and other elements fill up the gutter and make it impossible for water to drain through. Clogged gutters often result in an overflow of water on a roof that can seep down into the foundation.  

The solution? Keep an eye on your gutters and clean them out every so often to ensure water can drain quickly and easily off the roof.  

Sagging Gutters 

Clogged gutters restrict the water flow from your roof and can also cause your gutters to sag. Gutters that are filled with leaves and debris can become too heavy for the hangers they are attached to, which can cause them to sag and even fall off the roof. A sagging gutter could also be a result of the fasteners being installed too far apart from each other. 

The solution? Again, make sure your gutters are clean of leaves, twigs, and debris. Also, check to make sure that the hangers are installed close enough together to provide adequate support for the gutter.  

Leaky Gutters 

Another common and relatively easy to fix gutter problem is a leaky gutter. If you notice that rainwater is spouting out from different segments of your gutters, it could mean that there is a leak. A leak can impact the way water drains off your roof and could lead to extensive water damage.  

The solution? Use any household metal sealant to patch up the hole. Be sure that the sealant you use is made of the same material as the gutter. If the metals are different, it could cause your gutter to erode in that area. 

Fallen Gutters 

All it takes is one storm to knock a gutter off of your roof. This is a common occurrence and can’t be prevented. It may be tempting to put off replacing your gutter, but you may regret it once the next storm rolls through. 

The solution? If you notice your gutter has fallen off of your roof, quickly re-hang it. If it is damaged beyond repair, it may be time to replace it with a new segment.  

The Pitch 

If your gutter is clean of debris, not showing signs of any leaks, and is hung correctly—but water is still not draining properly from your roof, it could be the pitch. The pitch is the angle at which the gutter is installed. For water to run properly, the gutter must be angled in a certain way so that the water can flow down the roof and into the ground. An easy way to tell if the pitch is the problem is to look for standing water in the gutter.  

The solution? If the angle of the gutter is a problem, the fix could be something as easy as bending the metal to adjust the angle. If this is not feasible, you may need to reinstall the hangers. This could be a much bigger job, and it is recommended to leave this to the pros.  

For Roof Help, Call RoodBoyz, LLC 

The roofing professionals at RoodBoyz, LLC, have extensive experience repairing, replacing, and installing roofs in the Charleston, SC area. Our knowledgeable and trained contractors can give you a free estimate on roof repair services. Call RoodBoyz, LLC, today!