Nashville resident Luke Bryan said it best: “Rain is a good thing”- and it is –except when you have bad gutters.

A small but integral partScreen Shot 2014-08-07 at 9.20.24 AM of a home’s exterior, gutters provide adequate water diversion away from the foundation of your ho
use so an excess of rain water doesn’t damage the house or its foundation. But how do you know if your gutter is in the tip top shape it needs to be in to last through the unpredictable Nashville weather? Here are some basic things to consider when looking into repairing or replacing your home’s gutter system:

Cleaning According to gutter experts, gutters should be cleaned at least once a year, ideally bi-annually, to remove dirt and debris. Take a look around your lawn –do you have a lot of trees? You may need to clean your gutters more often to avoid prob
lematic leaf clogs as well.

Leaks Joint leaks and sagging are major signs that an immediate repair or replacement should be in order. Discoloration from rust can lead to deterioration down the road so keep your eyes peeled for warning signs. Check your gutters for any sagging, hanging, or pulling away from the house. This is a sign that the seams are worn and pulling apart and will need to be reattached or replaced.

Gutter Guards Guards can render your gutter system almost completely maintenance-free, keeping debris and leaves out of your system. Screens can often get clogged with smaller particles so although guards are more expensive, they may Screen Shot 2014-08-07 at 8.55.23 AMbe your best bet in the long run.

Nashville gutters need to maintained through this area’s harsh conditions. Be it a refreshing summertime sprinkle or an all-out downpour, the weather is inevitable and your home should be protected accordingly. Gutter repairs and replacement, whether installed professionally or on your own, are an investment that will keep expensive and avoidable house repairs at bay for a years to come.3