8 Signs You Need A Gutter Replacement
gutter replacement

If you look up at your house, it can be hard to tell if you need a full on gutter replacement, or just need to clean them. Clogged gutters don’t tell the full story. And with autumn kicking off, leaves in the gutter are prime time for gutter damage. 

We’re breaking down what to look for to determine whether you need a gutter replacement. And we’ll even guide you through what to do if you notice these signs going on around your gutters and home. Since gutter maintenance isn’t taught in schools, nor is it a common skill most people need to know – but that’s why we’re here!

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The 8 Signs You Need A Gutter Replacement

These are the most common signs you need to get your gutters replaced. If you see any of these around your home, it’s time to call the pros.

1. Basement Leaks or Foundation Cracks

Not obvious, but very urgent. If you’re seeing water in your basement or cracks in the foundation, failing gutters may be the cause. This is one of the most urgent signs you need a replacement, since foundation repairs are far more expensive.

2. Cracks, Splits, or Rust Spots

Small cracks might not seem like a big deal, but over time, they spread and allow water to leak through. If you see multiple cracks or rust patches, replacement is usually better than slapping on some duct tape.

3. Peeling Paint or Water Stains on Siding

If the paint around your gutters is peeling or you notice water marks and streaks down your siding, it means water is escaping instead of flowing through the gutter system. Usually happens with older gutters.

4. Sagging or Pulling Away From the House

When gutters sag or separate from your fascia, they aren’t draining properly. This often means the fasteners or the structure itself is too damaged, and replacement is the smarter long-term choice.

5. Pooling Water or Flooded Landscaping

If water is pooling around the foundation or washing away your precious landscaping even after cleaning your gutters, your drainage system isn’t working. This can put your foundation at risk, which we’ll explore more later on in this blog.

6. Mold, Mildew, or Rot

Moisture leaking out of old gutters can rot fascia boards, soffits, or even interior walls. If you notice mold growth or soft wood near your gutters, look to replace them as soon as possible. 

7. Frequent Clogs or Overflowing Water

Even after regular cleaning, if gutters are constantly clogged, overflowing, or undersized for your roof, it may be better to upgrade to seamless gutters or a larger system to avoid the constant hassle.

8. Separated Seams

Traditional gutters have joints where two sections meet, and over time these seams can fail. If you see gaps or leaks at multiple seams, switching to seamless gutters can save you future headaches. Seamless gutters are custom-fitted for your home to reduce leaks, debris build up, and water damage.

The Problems With Leaving Your Gutters Alone

Gutter damage might not seem that significant compared to other exterior damage like roofing problems, damaged siding, or rotted wood. But if you ignore your damaged gutters for long enough, it can leave some serious (and costly) damage on the rest of your home. Here’s what can happen:

Foundation Damage

When gutters don’t direct water away from the house, rainwater collects around the foot of your home. Over time, this constant exposure weakens the soil and can cause cracks in the foundation. Once water starts seeping into the basement, you’re dealing with flooding, mold, and expensive structural repairs that we don’t wish upon anyone.

Roof and Fascia Damage

If gutters are clogged, cracked, or pulling away, water often backs up under the shingles. This can rot the roof deck and fascia boards (the wood behind your gutters). Rot spreads quickly, and instead of just replacing gutters, you might also need roofing repairs.

Basement Flooding

Without proper drainage, water pools right up against your home. The intense water pressure it creates can push water into your basement, damaging drywall, flooring, furniture, and all the precious belongings you store there.

Siding and Exterior Damage

Overflowing gutters let water run down your siding, which stains, warps, and eventually rots the material. Even brick and stucco aren’t immune, since trapped water can cause discoloration and spalling (breaking down of the surface). Say hello to more costly damage…

Mini Tsunami in Your Yard

If your gutters are leaking or overflowing, the water cascades into your flowerbeds and lawns. This moves your soil all over the place, kills your precious plants, and ruins all the beautiful landscaping features you invested in. Protect your greens!

Pest and Mold Growth

Standing water in clogged or damaged gutters is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Moist wood around the roofline also attracts termites and carpenter ants. Inside the home, leaks encourage mold and mildew growth, which leaves your home with a serious health risk and an expensive red flag.

Decreased Home Value

For home buyers who are detail-oriented and take pride in their home’s exteriors, neglected gutters make your home look poorly maintained. While it might not directly affect the listing price of your home, potential buyers see gutter damage as a red flag, making your house harder to sell.

Gutter Cleaning vs. Gutter Replacement

What’s the difference between gutter cleaning and gutter replacement? Should you clean your gutters, or get a full on replacement? Here are the differences.

Gutter Cleaning

What it is: Gutter cleaning is routine maintenance, removing leaves, dirt, and debris so water can flow freely.

When it’s needed:

  • Water overflowing during rain
  • Visible buildup of leaves, twigs, or dirt
  • Pest activity (mosquitoes, wasps, rodents nesting)
  • At least 2x per year in climates like Wisconsin (spring & fall)

Benefits:

  • Prevents clogs and overflow damage to siding, roofing, and foundations
  • Extends the life of your gutters
  • Cheaper in the short term than replacement

Cost: Typically $100–$300 per cleaning, depending on home size and number of stories. Or you can turn it into a DIY project.

Gutter Replacement

What it is: Full removal of old, failing gutters and installation of new ones (often aluminum, steel, or copper).

When it’s needed:

  • Cracks, holes, or rust spots that keep returning
  • Gutters pulling away from fascia boards
  • Persistent leaks despite multiple cleanings/repairs
  • Sagging sections or gutters no longer sloping properly
  • Water pooling near the foundation

Benefits:

  • Long-term protection for your home’s structure
  • Boosts curb appeal with newer, seamless gutter systems
  • Can be paired with gutter guards to cut down on future maintenance
  • Often increases resale value because buyers see it as “one less project”

Cost: $1,500–$3,000 for most homes, depending on length, material, and installation complexity (and of course, who you hire). Copper or designer gutters can cost significantly more.

How Often Should You Replace Your Gutters?

Gutters won’t have a telltale expiration date, but it typically depends on the gutter material and how much damage it accumulates across its lifespan. The best part about gutter replacements is that you’ll typically only need to do it once or twice in your lifetime, while maintenance is the bulk of your work.

Typical Lifespan by Material

  • Aluminum Gutters: 20–30 years (most common and affordable).
  • Steel Gutters: 15–20 years (prone to rust if not coated).
  • Copper Gutters: 50+ years (premium option, often chosen for aesthetics and durability).
  • Vinyl Gutters: 10–20 years (budget-friendly, but shorter lifespan in extreme climates).

Factors That Shorten Gutter Life

  • Climate & Weather: Heavy rain, snow, ice dams, or high winds (like in Wisconsin or Michigan) can wear gutters out faster.
  • Maintenance: Gutters that are cleaned regularly (at least twice a year) last much longer than clogged, neglected systems.
  • Installation Quality: Poorly sloped or loosely attached gutters fail prematurely.
  • Surroundings: Lots of nearby trees = more debris, which stresses the system and causes sagging or rust

Replace Your Gutters Today

Now that you’ve spotted the damage, and know exactly what to do, it’s time to call on a reliable gutter replacement team to swap out those damaged pipes. Even if you notice something funny going on but aren’t sure whether it warrants a full replacement, it’s best to call professionals in your area for an expert opinion.

If you’re in the Waukesha area and need your gutters fixed fast, with high-quality custom-fit gutter systems, we’ve got your back at Home Guard Exteriors. We’ve safeguarded homes all across Wisconsin, using durable materials that stand the test of time and mother nature. Keep your home safe with us today!

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