Should You Put New Gutters on an Old House?

Whether you live in an historic home or a fixer-upper, if you have an older home, renovations are probably on your mind. Older homes come with stories, and they also come with a lot of projects. From repainting the siding to fixing up the porch, your list of tasks you need to accomplish is likely long. Should you even consider putting new gutters on your list of renovations?
Does Your Home Need New Gutters?
Depending on the history of your house, the weather conditions, and even the plants in your garden, your gutters may or may not need to be replaced. If the previous owners replaced the gutters, you live in an area with moderate rainfall, and you have few leafy or blossoming trees, gutters may not be your number one priority. However, if you notice that your gutters are overflowing, leaking, sagging, or frequently clogged, then you may need new gutters. No matter whether your home is old or new, you could require new gutters if you’re experiencing troubles such as roof or foundation leaks: often, troublesome gutters are to blame.

Old Homes May Have Clogged Gutters
If your gutters are older, they may gradually accumulate debris, and rusted areas or places where small debris collects can get worse over the years. Over time, you’ll find that you have a clogged gutter that overflows onto your home’s foundation. If your home is older and the foundation has already shifted and cracked slightly, placing a lot of water near that foundation is the last thing that you want to do. Replacing your gutters with new seamless gutters and gutter covers can ensure that your home doesn’t suffer any leaks due to overflowing gutters.
Warped, Sagging, and Clogged Gutters Can Cause Roofing Problems
If your gutters are older, clogged, warped, and sagging, this can lead to problems with your roof. Water backups can move water under your shingles, and if there are any troubles with your roofing or what’s underneath, that water can leak into your home. During the winter months, you’ll also notice that ice forms in your gutters, causing ice dams under the shingles. Ice dams gradually pry your shingles apart, eroding their effectiveness.
If you have older roofing, your roof can also contribute to clogged gutters. Small pieces of shingle can move from the roof into your gutter, even at times when you wouldn’t think to clean your gutters.
Should you add new gutters to an older home? If your gutters are causing roofing or foundation troubles, the answer is a definite yes. Gutters are some of the most important parts of your home drainage system and, in an older home, they help the rest of your house maintain its integrity year after year.
When you’re looking for new gutters, roofing, and gutter covers, contact Lednor Home Solutions. With our decades of experience, we’ll help you renovate your home in a way that works for your family for many years in the future.
Contact us and schedule an appointment today.