Think about how much our gutter systems go through here in Denver, Colorado Springs, Littleton, and surrounding cities. We have unpredictable, fluctuating weather that can sometimes be extreme all seasons, including but limited to, the following weather conditions:
- Temperatures that dip below freezing
- Strong wind gusts
- Around 65 inches of snow per year
- Rainstorms
- Pelting Hail
All these weather conditions can wreak havoc on the exterior of our homes, especially the gutter system. If you have a half-round gutter system or an open-top gutter system, then odds are it has some damage from our extreme weather.
From dents to gutters that are tearing away from your home, it can be difficult to know what type of damage needs a repair or a replacement. Continue reading as we explain gutter repair vs. gutter replacement and how to tell which one you need.
Gutter Damage That Can be Repaired
Half-round or open-top gutter systems are the most common because of their affordability. Unfortunately, they can become damaged from severe weather and aren’t the best choice for homeowners in Colorado. We’ll explain more on that later, but for now, we’re going to discuss damage to half-round gutters that can be repaired versus replaced. Below are some common reparable damages:
Holes
Half-round gutters can and often leak at some point in their lifetime. Usually, a leak is the result of a hole in the gutter or the downspout that forces water from the gutter or downspout out and onto the ground below. These leaks could result in soil erosion, landscaping damage, and even foundation damage. If your gutter has a hole then you’ll want to repair it as soon as possible. You could DIY the repair by visiting your local hardware store or you could take the safer route and contact a gutter repair company or the gutter installation company that installed your gutter system.
Loose Seams
Half-round gutter systems that have seams are bound to leak or become loose at some point. The joints and seams in a gutter system undergo a lot of pressure from heavy snow and ice to rain and hail. This pressure can cause the joints and seams to loosen little by little until eventually they disconnect or tear away from the home, resulting in leaks and possible soffit and fascia damage. Repairing loose seams by tightening the bolts and screws is important to keep the gutter system functioning optimally.
Dents
Hail and flying debris can cause dents to gutter systems depending on the material. Unfortunately, most half-round and open-top gutter systems will dent from hail, debris, and ice, so dents are inevitable. Some homeowners choose to repair the dents themselves or file a homeowner’s insurance claim if the dents are from a natural cause like a recent severe hail storm. Whatever the case, repair dents to ensure water can flow freely throughout the gutter system.
Clogged Gutters
Half-round gutters will clog at some point because the inside of the gutter is completely exposed. Debris like leaves and pine needles rapidly collect inside gutters causing blockages and clogs. You can DIY clogged gutters by deep cleaning your gutter system at least two times per year, more if your home is surrounded by pines or deciduous trees.
Gutter Damage That Should be Replaced
Sometimes damage to gutters is irreparable and needs to be replaced by a gutter professional. If you notice any of the following on your gutter system then it’s time to get it replaced as soon as possible.
Sagging Gutters
Sagging gutters leads to stress on the section of the gutter that isn’t draining water, resulting in dropping lower and lower each time water, snow, ice, or debris enters it. Sectional gutters sag easily since the system is installed in sections and seams are present. Sagging gutters will result in the gutter tearing away from the home which can cause extreme damage. It’s important to get your gutter system replaced immediately.
Rust
Gutters that have rust may not seem like they require immediate action, but when gutters rust, it’s a sign that the material is corroding. Rust eats away at metals and can cause holes rather quick. You’ll want to get your rusty gutters replaced as soon as possible to avoid leaks, cracks, and other damage.
Cracks or Gaps
Half-round gutters can warp easily, especially as they undergo seasons in the Denver area. Cracks and gaps are relatively common gutter issues that can result in severe damage to your home’s siding, soffit and fascia boards, and even your roof. You must replace the gutter system if you notice any cracks in the material or gaps in the seams.
How Can I Avoid Gutter Damage?
The common gutter issues above can create dangerous and costly repairs if they aren’t repaired or replaced promptly. If you’re tired of cleaning your gutters or worried that your gutters don’t seem to be holding up as they should, you should consider installing the K-Guard Leaf Free Gutter System.
K-Guard is a complete gutter system that is crafted from heavy-duty aluminum that will never corrode, warp, or chip no matter the weather. Our gutter product is so durable that it’s able to withstand all types of severe weather conditions from extreme winds to blizzards and everything in between. No matter the weather condition, our seamless gutter system is so durable that it won’t pull away from your home. With heavy amounts of precipitation, especially in the winter months, homes in Colorado need the durability of K-Guard.
Contact our team today to learn more about the K-Guard System or call (970) 432-8093. K-Guard is the premiere gutter company in Colorado, providing a leaf-free gutter solution for homeowners for many years. We proudly install the K-Guard Gutter System across the state of Colorado including, but not limited to, the following locations: Denver, Colorado Springs, Littleton, Centennial, Aurora, Boulder, Castle Rock, Broomfield, Fort Collins, and so much more! Schedule your free estimate today.
