Galvanized steel gutters are awesome! Offering a great blend of durability and affordability, these gutters are fantastic for those wanting quality guttering without breaking the bank. Of course, as with other kinds of gutters, the galvanized variety doesn’t last forever. In this article, SPOUT Gutter Pros discusses lifespan and how you can extend the life of your gutter system.
Whether you’re in need of installation or repair, it helps to source a gutter specialist you can trust. Chances are, you’re looking for a qualified (and affordable) contractor. With the help of SPOUT, you can find a fully licensed & insured company in no time. Simply request your free estimate and enjoy the savings (both time and money)!
Advantages of Using Galvanized Gutters
If you want to protect your home, a high-quality gutter system goes a long way. There are many advantages to a galvanized system.
These include:
- Hard to dent
- Resistant to extreme thermal conditions
- Compatible with any shingles
- Less likely to leak
- Offered in both seamless and sectional options
- Paintable
How Long Do Galvanized Gutters Last?
Galvanized gutters last an average of 20 years. However, several factors can boost or lower the actual lifespan.
- The durability of the zinc coating: First, we have to consider the nature of galvanized systems. Composed of steel with a zinc coating – this coating provides protection against rust and the elements, which is the main selling point for this type of gutter – the coating doesn’t last forever.
- Climate and weather conditions: Second, weather conditions can greatly affect the life expectancy of your gutters. Galvanized steel does particularly well with extreme heat and cold. If you live in an area where there are true four seasons or a place where the sun beats down most of the year, this kind of system is great. However, greater exposure to severe climate can take its toll. If we look at the effects of heat, for instance, steel expands and contracts with thermal changes. The gutters themselves can withstand quite a bit, but that’s not the case for the hangers and screws. In time, they will most likely need to be repaired or even replaced.
Extending the Life of Your Gutters
Protecting your home and property is a wise choice. And when it comes to potential water damage, you should definitely invest in a gutter system that can safeguard your house, walkways, driveway, landscaping, and more.
There are three main ways to help extend the lifespan of your gutters: inspection, maintenance, and repair. Let’s jump in!
1. Inspection
It would be great if you didn’t have to worry about your gutters once they were installed. Unfortunately, that’s not the case.
In order to enjoy a long-lasting system – one that properly captures, routes, and drains water – it’s important to perform routine inspections. This is especially true for galvanized gutters since it’s difficult to spot any wear of the zinc coating without getting close to it.
Along with examining the zinc coating, there are several other things to keep an eye out for:
- Overflowing water: Just rain? If you notice overflowing water, it’s a sign of debris blockage. This can be caused by an accumulation of leaves, twigs, and more.
- Broken hangers or fasteners on the ground: If you find these parts on the ground, it could mean your system’s hangers are unable to handle the weight of water anymore.
- Sagging or leaking gutters: Sagging gutters? Instead of the hangers, the actual gutter might not be able to handle the weight of water. Leaking gutters? Under load, sections of your system might start to separate, causing leaks.
- Rust: Typically seen at the bottom of aging gutters, rust can be an unwelcoming sign. Another possible indicator of rust is peeling paint.
- Dents: Even if they’re small, dents and cracks that are not dealt with properly can lead to bigger problems down the road.
2. Maintenance
It’s easy to forget about your gutters. But without routine maintenance, the lifecycle of your system can be significantly reduced.
Clean Regularly
Along with a periodic inspection, you’ll want to clean out your gutters regularly. Over time, they can be filled with leaves, small branches, and other organic debris. If not taken care of, this can render your gutters ineffective. And that water has to go somewhere. Water overflowing your gutters can lead to mold, foundation issues, cracked concrete, and destroyed landscaping.
Prevent Ice Dams
Live in a cold climate or an area with winter weather? Ice dams can be a major concern. Heavy ice can develop along your gutters due to house insulation and ventilation. You’ll want to make sure that your home is properly insulated. Also, you can look into a heated gutter system. Composed of heated cables, it helps to melt away ice and keep your gutters clear.
Install Gutter Guards
One way to make maintenance a lot easier is by installing gutter guards. These screens attach above the pathway of water, preventing leaves and other material from clogging up your system. You still have to perform maintenance by clearing the screens, but your work will be greatly reduced with the use of gutter covers!
Recoat and Paint
Along with the above recommendations, you’ll want to consider the options of recoating and painting. Both can help boost the life of a gutter system, giving them the added layer of protection against rust and other issues. Plus, with paint, you can increase the curb appeal of your home. A little paint in the right color can go a long way!
3. Repair
As mentioned already, galvanized gutters can endure a beating from the elements. The steel expands and contracts, however, which can lead to the need for repairs.
Check the Hangers
Sometimes, it’s not the gutters themselves that need repair. If you live in an especially hot region, the growing and shrinking of the steel can cause the hangers to loosen. In time, this can cause your gutter system to sag or lead to sections breaking away from the house.
Hire Professionals for Extensive Repairs
You could do the work yourself. But if you don’t have a working knowledge of or prior working experience with gutters, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. It takes precision to properly install and repair these systems. If not performed correctly, it may lead to failure and further damage. Don’t take the chance with an improper repair!
Consider Installing a Seamless System
If you want to extend the life of your gutters, even more, consider going with a seamless gutter system. Since it doesn’t have joints, this makes it extremely durable. The cost of installation is more expensive than a standard/sectional system, but you get longer-lasting gutters (that also are way less prone to leakage).
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We hope you’ve enjoyed this article on galvanized gutter lifespan and how to extend it. With a few simple steps, you can ensure proper drainage and protection for years to come. At the end of the day, it’s about safeguarding your major investment – your home.
Need help with galvanized gutter installation, repairs, or painting? SPOUT Gutter Pros makes it easy! With the help of our extensive network, you can quickly & easily book a fully licensed, bonded & insured gutter specialist. It’s simple with SPOUT!
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