Get matched with top gutter cleaning pros in Kotzebue, AK

While zinc gutters will not crack, fade, or rust with time, they will change in appearance as the years go on. This "maturing" is actually one of the reasons why zinc gutters are so prized. Over time, a grayish patina forms on zinc gutters to create a stately, rustic look. This patina actually makes zinc gutters more durable by making them resistant to chemicals.

Signs that your gutters need to be cleaned include:

• Debris built up in the gutters

• Gutters overflow when it rains

• Water doesn’t flow freely from downspouts

• Gutters leak or there’s visibly damaged

• Evidence of leaking along your roof, siding, yard, or pavement

• Gutters pulled away from roof

• Water damage to soffit and fascia

• Weeds or small trees growing in the gutters

• Pests visible in your gutters

• Leaks in crawl space or basement may indicate overflowing gutters

With routine maintenance, gutters don’t usually need to be replaced for 20 years, but there are warning signs that they might need early replacement. Signs that your gutters need to be replaced include sagging, visible cracks or holes, peeling paint, rust, standing water in your gutter, and water leaking into your basement. Pushing off replacing your gutters can lead to extensive damage to both the interior and exterior of your home. Regular maintenance can help your gutters last all 20 years — and sometimes, even longer. 

Icicles can form if your gutters are clogged, but that’s not always the issue. You could also have an ice dam on your roof from poor insulation inside. In that case, the melting snow can refreeze in the gutter even if there isn’t a clog. If you’re unsure of the underlying problem, call in a roofing company to assess the issue and implement a permanent solution for you.