The gutter system on a home serves as a sort of unsung hero, working hard day after day to keep the home free and clear from any number of issues like mold growth, foundational damage, and even mosquito infestations.
A well-maintained gutter system is a home’s first barrier to the elements. While a properly maintained system can last for years to come, gutter repairs are inevitable, even reaching the point of full replacement. Can a gutter system be easily removed without the help of a professional? Let’s take a look.
Signs to Look Out for
Before starting any project, there are a few signs that indicate a home might need a revamped gutter system. A few signs to keep an eye out for include:
- Extensive cracking
- Seam separation
- The exterior paint starts to peel
- The separation between gutter and roof
- Pooling water
- Leaking water in the home
While general wear and tear is normal on any gutter system, these signs are generally a good indication that a gutter removal or repair is imminent.
Side Effects
It’s important to keep an eye out for these signs as a failing system will fail to do its job leading to negative side effects such as clogged gutters, the formation of ice dams, the growth of mold, and more.
When the above signs begin to appear or have even gotten past the point of no return, it’s likely time for a full gutter removal.
DIY Gutter Repair
Tackling a full gutter removal and replacement is a project some homeowners might consider doing themselves. For example, some might consider it if:
- They are familiar with how the original gutters were installed
- They are familiar with the original installation process
- They have the proper tools or equipment
- They have the satisfactory time to complete a full installation
However, there is much that goes into removing gutters that homeowners should be aware of. For example, are the gutters on the home still under warranty? If so, the gutters might be able to be replaced at no or low cost to the homeowner if they are indeed covered under warranty.
Furthermore, gutters are made from many different material types. The type needed will depend on the size of the house, the pitch of the roof, specific mounting options, and how much rainfall the area receives year-round.
Homeowners that feel inexperienced with any of the above should be wary with starting the gutter removal process. Not to mention, even those who feel somewhat comfortable on a ladder might feel unsafe upon undertaking a full gutter removal project.
Leave It to the Pros
To that end, leaving a full gutter removal to the professionals is the safest route to take. Professionals in the field will know the ins and outs of gutter removal, gutter repair, and new gutter installation.
A gutter company will be able to determine and execute the following crucial details for the job:
- Best style for certain weather conditions
- Detailed installation after removal such as hangar spacing or pitch
- Certifications for safe removal
- Where to obtain proper materials needed
Not to mention, professionals will be able to finish the job in a sufficient timeframe and will do so correctly the first time.
No need to go back for repairs time and time again when using a professional company. A gutter removal job done incorrectly the first time can lead to costly additional repairs and time needed to finish the job.
Ready for New Gutters?
With so much information available online these days, it can be tempting to want to take on home improvement projects without the help of experts.
When it comes to working on or near the roof of a home, safety is paramount. While some might feel comfortable being up on a ladder for hours at a time, overestimating a skillset when working on a roof is not a smart risk to take.
Any gutter work completed will be a physically demanding and time-intensive undertaking. Professionals will get the job done efficiently and correctly, saving time and money down the road.
A good gutter company will be able to explain the materials used as well as any details that go into a job.
They can answer any questions that may arise during and after the job so that the home stays free and clear from future damage.
Leaving a gutter removal project to the pros means the home will be protected for years to come.