Severe storms often bring strong winds that can be too much for old or poorly installed and maintained gutters. The shape of the gutters can catch the wind at certain angles, making them vulnerable to damage. To avoid this, ask your contractor to reinforce the gutters. It is best to have a professional company complete the replacement of the gutters for safety and structural integrity.
Home inspectors must inspect gutters and downspouts as part of the roof portion of the home inspection, according to InterNachi's practical home inspection standards. In climates with intense winters, ice may accumulate in the gutters. The size of the house and number of rain gutters that need to be replaced will affect the total installation time. If your gutters are still under warranty, you may want to hire a gutter company, especially if you are not comfortable working on extension ladders or are unfamiliar with the technical process for properly cutting, tilting and sealing gutters.
A second pair of eyes can also be useful for measuring the inclination at both ends of the gutter as it adjusts before placing it. For comparison, a professional company can complete up to 150 linear feet of gutter installation in 7 hours. Barry Best Seamless Gutters offers professional gutter installation services and quality heated gutter systems. Replacing gutters on your own may not save you money in the long run if the wrong materials are purchased, if new gutters leak, or if someone is injured when they fall from a ladder.
When replacing a gutter, special equipment may be required and caution should be taken when working on a ladder or roof. When determining the size you need for new gutters, important considerations include the size and inclination of the roof and any areas that tend to overflow when it rains. A common mistake some homeowners make when replacing their own gutters is choosing a gutter style or material that isn't right for their house. Gutter protectors help reduce the frequency of gutter maintenance by preventing leaves and other debris from entering them.
