Gutters are an essential part of your roofing system. With properly installed gutters, you don’t have to worry about rain seeping into your home through the roof or pooling next to your foundation. Gutters direct rainfall away from your home, resulting in a lower risk of moisture damage, mold growth, and leaks.
While gutters are durable, they need to be replaced at some point. Otherwise, your home can become vulnerable to water damage, especially during heavy storms and downpours in the Jacksonville area. Knowing more about gutter lifespans can help you determine when to replace gutters on your home.
If you’re having a roof replacement done, this is a great time to learn about your gutters. Should you have them replaced while getting a new roof? Consider the following to help you decide.
When to Replace Your Gutters
When you’re having your roof replaced, it’s helpful to know whether or not to also have your gutters replaced. Remember that you don’t always need gutters replaced when you get a new roof. In fact, gutters can usually stay during roof replacements rather than having to be replaced.
When should you consider keeping your current gutters? Your gutters can stay as long as they’re in good condition and have a hidden hanger system. This system offers better performance, as well as more aesthetic appeal than the older style of hangers.
When your gutters have older gutter hanger systems, such as straps hanging off the roof, they should be replaced. Removing these hanger systems and gutters and replacing them with seamless gutters helps protect your new roof from water damage.
Seamless gutters do not have as many vulnerable areas as gutters with seams. This provides enhanced protection against leaks and water damage. Seamless gutters with hidden hanger systems also look better on homes.
If you do need your gutters replaced, you can have this done before your roof replacement or afterward. Working with experienced roofers, such as our StormForce team, can help you know if you should plan to get new gutters before or after your roof replacement.
How Long Gutters Last
How long gutters last depends on different factors, such as the material they’re made of. Some gutter materials last much longer than others. Aluminum gutters can last for about 25 years, while vinyl gutters might only last for about 10 or 15 years. Copper gutters can last for many decades.
Proper installation and maintenance also matter when it comes to gutter lifespan. A properly installed and maintained gutter system can last much longer than a system that isn’t maintained or installed correctly.
When you have new gutters installed before or after a roof replacement, you can do your part in helping them reach their expected lifespan. This involves having your gutters cleaned and maintained regularly. Keeping your gutters free of debris helps prevent damage while protecting your home from leaks. Making gutter repairs promptly can also help ensure your new gutters last for many years.
How Many Downspouts Your Gutters Need
Downspouts remove the rainwater from your home exterior, so it won’t seep through your roof, siding, or foundation. Without downspouts, rain would spill over the sides of your gutters onto the ground. This can lead to flooding and soil erosion on your property.
Having the correct number of downspouts is vital to help ensure your home is protected from water damage. The number you need can vary depending on your roof’s square footage. In general, your home should have downspouts every 40 feet at the most. However, having downspouts every 25 to 35 feet is a better range.
Having enough downspouts on your home helps with handling the volume of rain hitting your home and reducing overflow. Keep in mind that downspouts can only handle so much water, though. Not having enough downspouts or having them spaced too far apart means your gutters can overflow. This can cause water to build up around your home’s foundation or flood your home.
Talk to Experienced Roofers
The best way to know if it’s time to replace your gutters is by talking to local roofers in Jacksonville. When you need a roof replacement, your roofers can look at your gutters and determine if they should be replaced. Your roofers can also tell you whether to replace your gutters before or after your roof is done.
For more information on gutters and other roofing concerns, please contact StormForce. Our skilled team has years of experience in the roofing industry and can handle all your roofing needs. We provide high-quality roofing services for homeowners in the Jacksonville area.
