Question 1

Should gutters overflow in heavy rain?

Accepted Answer

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Properly installed gutters should be able to function normally in heavy rains. Allowing water to overflow can cause water damage around your home's basement or foundation. If the overflow is caused by a simple clog, paying a gutter cleaning cost of $125 to $250 may be enough to get the gutters running clear again. If there's a larger issue, you may need to repair or replace your gutters.

Question 2

​​Do buried downspouts freeze?

Accepted Answer

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Buried downspouts can freeze during cold weather as cold water runs through them. If you’ve discovered your downspouts are frozen, you can carefully pour hot water down the top of the downspout to defrost them. If that doesn’t work, you may need to dig your downspout back up. Avoid trying to break the ice from the exterior using a hammer as this can cause cracks and damage to your downspout.

To avoid freezing the future, consider adding a heating cable to the exterior, which can adjust heat based on the surrounding temperature.

Question 3

Is it better to repair or replace leaking or damaged gutters?

Accepted Answer

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In most cases, it makes more sense to repair leaking or damaged gutters than it will to replace them. You’ll spend an average of $400 to repair your gutters, while full replacement will cost around $2,000 or more, depending on the gutter material and style and the size of your home. If your gutters are nearing the end of their lifespan—usually around 20 years for aluminum or vinyl gutters or up to 50 years for copper or steel—then it might make sense to replace them, as it could cost you less in the long run.

Question 4

How often do I need to replace gutter hangers?

Accepted Answer

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How long hangers last will depend on what gutter material they’re made from, but generally you can expect to get at least 10 to 15 years from them no matter what they’re made from. But don’t wait for them to break to give them a checkup. Inspect this part of your gutters on a yearly basis, and make repairs at the first sight of damage.

Question 5

What happens if you don’t repair gutter leaks?

Accepted Answer

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If you don't repair your home’s gutter leaks, water or the gutters themselves can damage your home’s siding, roofing, foundation, and landscaping. Untreated leaks encourage mildew, mold, and rot, depending on the type of siding material. The foundation, chimney, window frames, and drywall can also crack over time, leading to costly repairs.