|
|
|
Home >>> Gutter Guard >>>
Common gutter problems and your roof
Avoid these common pitfalls and add longevity to your exterior
As I set my ladder against your gutter to get on your roof, I already can tell you
may have roofing problems caused by faulty gutter installation and maintenance.
Roofers get to see many of the common problems caused by inadequate gutter systems.
Most homeowners aren't at fault for many of the problems. Homeowners often acquire their homes
already with faulty gutters or they have gutter systems installed by unskilled contractors.
Many problems start with new home construction. Typical contractors are in such a hurry to make money
that they don't care about your gutter functioning properly. Suddenly you have a system collecting water
instead of diverting it.
The most common symptom I see is water backed up in the end of a gutter.
Gutters hanged without being leveled in the right direction is a common culprit.
A gutter will work somewhat initially, but after a few winters of snow and ice your gutter will sag and
with any moderate precipitation your gutter will overflow.
Another common problem I see is loose gutter spikes and hangers. Most gutter spikes were only hammered
into the faceboard, allowing the faceboard to bear the weight of water, snow and ice. A guality aluminum gutter
hanged with spike and ferrule should have at least some spikes in the rafters. Hangers will also serve you best
when using quality screws and hitting rafter ends for added stability.
Poor installation of gutter and covers can cause a leaky roof
A major problem that often occurs is caused by protective gutter covers. So many systems actually cause water to
"dam up" behind them causing moisture to seep under shingles and onto the roofs felt paper and plywood sheathing.
After several years your roof may become damaged and leak. If roof repair is needed, shingles, plywood and rafter ends may need replacing.
When selecting gutter covers or leaf guard I'm a firm believer in "smaller is better".
The most easily fixed problem that occurs is uncleaned and clogged gutters and spouting. Somehow the most interesting things end up in
gutters. Kids toys to dead birds among leaves and branches are common place. Take the time to clean your gutters and down spouts! Use a garden
hose or strong leaf blower to remove debris. For extreme clogging problems, a plumbers snake may work.
These are just some of the main problems your gutters can have or will acquire over the years. Take the time and do an annual inspection of your
gutter system. If you avoid these common mistakes you can help stop any potential roofing problems caused by poor gutters and installation.
|
|
|
Pre-Drill spike holes if the rafter tails are very hard
Inspect your gutters twice a year and assess any problems or potential weaknesses in your system