Gutters play an important role when it comes to protecting your home. However, this statement is only true when your gutters are functioning correctly. Failing gutters put your home at risk for costly and significant damage. Make sure you know how to recognize the signs that indicate your gutters are failing and in need of replacement.

Broken Fasteners

Fasteners are used to keep your gutter system level and secure. If you can look up and see that several of these supportive fasteners are broken or loose, this is often an indication that it's time to consider a complete gutter replacement. When you see one or two broken fasteners, this could simply mean that the fastener was not installed correctly and can easily be replaced.

However, when you start to see an excessive number of broken fasteners, this is generally a sign that there is an issue with the actual gutter and a warning that the gutter is separating from the roof.

Landscaping Erosion

If you have a landscaping design around the perimeter of your home, a quick glance at its condition can offer an indication as to how well your gutters are operating. If you're noticing an issue with erosion, this is often a warning sign that your gutters are failing and need to be replaced.

Instead of channeling the water away from your home, the failing gutters are sending it straight down the side of your home, where it is settling and causing your landscaping to erode. It's important to act promptly in this case because it will likely only be a matter of time before you start having issues with water in your basement.

Peeling Paint

You can also look at the exterior of your home to get an idea how well your gutter system is functioning. Start this process by looking at the condition of the paint. Do you notice that the paint on the side of your home is peeling? If the answer is yes, this is likely a sign that your gutters aren't only failing, but they have been failing for quite some time.

Peeling paint could mean that the gutters have separated from the roof and the water is rolling down the side of your home and seeping into the paint, causing it to peel. Again, this is a sign that you need to replace the gutters quickly.  

If your gutters are displaying any signs that indicate they need to be replaced, make certain you are not ignoring this issue. An installation expert can quickly help replace your gutters and protect your home. Consider contacting companies like Gutter Magician NKY for assistance.