Signs Your Gutters May Be Damaging Your Roof

Most people don’t think about their gutters until they’re not doing their job very well. Rainwater spilling over the sides of the gutter – downspouts not moving water away the foundation. Your gutter’s one main job is to move rainwater away from your house. Without them, water just dumps everywhere and causes slow but considerable damage over time.

Your gutters are actually a part of a rain management system that’s designed to essentially handle three basic functions.

• Catch rain as it runs off your roof.
• Channel the water to the gutters and to the downspouts.
• Direct the water down the downspouts and away from the foundation of your home.

If your gutters are not performing as they should, this could have devastating effects on your roof and your foundation. For now, we’re going to focus on the damage poorly draining water can have on your roof. How do you know if your gutters are not performing as they should?

Do you have overflowing water anywhere around the gutters?

• If gutters are clogged or poorly sloped, water can back up onto the roof edge.
• This can cause wood rot on fascia boards, under shingles, or even in your attic.

Are your gutters sagging or pulling away from the roof’s edge?

• Gutters pulling away from the house often means they’re too heavy (clogged) or fasteners are failing.
• When they sag, they can rip off roofing materials or damage the roofline.

Can you see any water stains or damage around your gutters?

• Look under the eaves and in your attic for stains, mildew, or rot — signs water isn’t draining properly.

Do you have any damaged shingles at the edges of your roof?

• Water spilling over clogged gutters can cause shingles at the edges to curl, crack, or deteriorate faster.

Is there any erosion around the foundation?

• While not direct roof damage, if you see heavy erosion, it means gutters aren’t directing water properly — and that backup can also mean roof edge problems.

In addition to the above items to look for, you can also do a quick survey of your gutters after the next heavy rain. After the next rain, walk around your house and look for water spilling over, sagging gutters, or dark stains along fascia boards. Also, if you can access it easily, check your attic — any musty smell, damp insulation, or staining could be a sign that your roof has been compromised by the water entering your attic.

If you have any questions, or spot some potential issues, that’s where Roof Scientist comes in. We can diagnose any issue you may be having, and put together a strategy and action plan to address your needs. What you can’t do is ignore these warning signs – it could cost you significantly if left alone.