At Journeyman Exteriors, we often hear from Portland Metro, Clark County, and Cowlitz County homeowners who aren’t sure if they need gutter repairs, replacement, or just a cleaning. To help, here’s a breakdown of the signs that it’s time to take action.
Top Signs You May Need New Gutters
1. Water Overflowing During Rain
If water is spilling over the sides, your gutters may be clogged, improperly pitched, or too small for the job. If cleaning doesn’t solve it, replacement is likely needed.
2. Sagging or Pulling Away from the Roofline
Loose, sagging gutters can’t properly direct water. This is often caused by age, rot, or improper installation. A secure replacement will protect your home and improve curb appeal.
3. Visible Cracks, Holes, or Rust
Even small cracks let water leak where it shouldn’t. Over time, this can lead to peeling paint, rotted fascia boards, or foundation problems.
4. Pooling Water Around Your Foundation
The main job of gutters is to move water away from your home. If you see puddles or erosion near your foundation, it’s a big red flag.
5. Peeling Paint or Rot on Siding
When gutters fail, water drips down your siding. This often causes paint to bubble or wood to rot, creating an expensive problem if not fixed quickly.
6. Age of Your Gutters
Most gutters last 20–30 years depending on the material and maintenance. If yours are older, it’s worth considering replacement before problems start.
Repair vs. Replace: What’s Best for You?
Minor issues like loose fasteners or a single crack can often be repaired.
Major issues like widespread sagging, multiple leaks, or rust throughout usually mean full replacement is the smarter investment.
At Journeyman Exteriors, we’ll inspect your gutters and give you honest recommendations. Sometimes a simple repair is all you need, and sometimes a full system replacement is the long-term solution.
Ready to Upgrade?
Journeyman Exteriors makes gutter installation and replacement easy. We handle everything from helping you choose the right gutters to professional installation—no stress, no mess, and no cutting corners.
