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Is It Better to Replace or Repair Gutters?
Knowing when to replace or repair gutters will help you plan maintenance costs. We help you spot the signs that your gutter needs attention.
Is it better to repair or replace gutters? This is a common concern for property managers, contractors, and building owners, and the answer to this question will depend on several factors. In this article, we look at how to assess the condition of the gutters, the cost of repairs versus replacement, and the longevity of each option.
Signs Your Gutters Need Attention
There are several ways to spot when your gutters need attention. Typical signs include leaking and sagging, rust and corrosion, cracks or holes, pooling water or poor drainage. If these issues are left unchecked, each issue can escalate until the integrity of the entire guttering system is at risk. Once compromised, this can lead to costly gutter repairs or full replacement of the whole system, along with damage to the adjacent roof and building.
Leaks can be caused by damaged guttering, through deterioration or from the impact of fallen debris. Sharp, heavy objects and even drones can cause holes and cracks to appear. Stormy conditions can cause tree branches and twigs to fall into the guttering, creating blockages. When debris is not removed, gutters can become clogged, and water can start to pool. The weight of pooling water can cause the guttering to sag and even break.
Pooling water can lead to various issues. Apart from the pressure caused by the water, it can encourage plant growth, such as moss and grasses. As this organic matter takes root and grows, this also places added weight onto the gutter and supporting brackets.
When the gutter’s original coating has deteriorated or become damaged, this can expose the substrate underneath to the elements. Where there is pooling water present and a galvanised gutter is scratched, the steel underneath can oxidise, resulting in costly corrosion. Depending on the severity of the rust, you might not necessarily need to replace the gutter as there may be repair options available.
Regular inspections and maintenance will enable you to spot minor issues before they become major problems. By cleaning your gutters on a regular basis, you can keep gutters clear from fallen debris to prevent blockages. When pooling water overflows, this can cause damage to lower roof areas and building walls. Always repair damaged guttering as soon as possible to avoid costly replacements.
When to Replace Gutters
Where the guttering has significant structural issues or you are carrying out frequent repairs, it can be advisable to replace the section or system. Typically, when the gutter has large cracks, is coming away from the wall or covered in rust, then a replacement might be the best option.
As different gutter materials have varying properties, the damage will be relevant to the substrate. Inspect the guttering and brackets carefully to assess the full extent of the damage. Always consider more affordable repair solutions before costly replacements.
As uPVC gutters lack the strength of their steel counterparts, they are much more prone to damage. The average cost of replacing a uPVC guttering system is £45 per metre and downpipes cost £40 per metre. The cost of galvanised steel is priced similarly. Cast iron downpipes are much more expensive, costing around £140 per metre. Aluminium is another popular material for guttering, and the average cost is around £95 per metre.
If a galvanised steel gutter has been damaged to the extent where there are rust patches present that are beyond repair, then a replacement is the solution. In many cases, you might just need to replace the section, rather than the entire system.
When to Repair Gutters
When a gutter only has hairline cracks, you might be able to carry out a minor repair using waterproof tape. If the guttering is a relatively new installation or you have budget constraints, this can be an effective fix. Giromax® Sealant is another useful product that can help to seal any gaps. Always repair small cracks because they can become large holes if they are not treated accordingly, which could compromise the entire guttering system.
When the galvanised zinc coating of a steel guttering has worn away, corrosion can become costly if rust patches are not addressed. These areas can be treated to avoid the corrosion from spreading.
Giromax® Guttercoat is a highly effective repair solution, which will also help to protect the guttering system. Its flexible elastomeric formula encapsulates the guttering, providing a durable coating that can withstand pooling water and UV rays. This product can be used in conjunction with Giromax ®Sealant to effectively tackle corrosion on guttering systems.
Conclusion
Knowing when to replace or repair gutters will help you plan your budget and maintenance costs. When you can spot the signs that your gutter needs attention, you can take a more proactive approach. Depending on the extent of the damage, age of the gutters, and budget available, there are various cost-effective solutions available. The sooner you identify a gutter problem, the sooner you can address and treat the issue.
Giromax® Guttercoat is a market-leading gutter treatment, which is guaranteed for up to 15 years. For more information about our gutter coating or if you need technical guidance, call 01455 558969 or email: sales.orders@giromax.co.uk
Sources:
https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/gutter-replacement-cost/
https://www.easymerchant.co.uk/guttering/steel-galvanised/
https://www.buildingmaterials.co.uk/info-hub/roofing/common-guttering-problems
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Is It Better to Replace or Repair Gutters?
Managing Director
Is it better to repair or replace gutters? This is a common concern for property managers, contractors, and building owners, and the answer to this question will depend on several factors. In this article, we look at how to assess the condition of the gutters, the cost of repairs versus replacement, and the longevity of each option.
