How Does Wind Damage Your Gutters?

Gutters are equally as crucial as the primary components of your home, such as the roof and siding. You may be accustomed to inspecting your yard for damage during unexpected storms, but you should also be in the habit of looking up. Without your knowledge, your gutters could be the hardest-hit victim of storm damage around your home. 

Here’s how wind can damage gutters.

• Metal Fatigue

High-speed winds pressurize a building when they hit an outer wall. It causes the wind to travel upwards. The varying wind pressures can induce metal fatigue on gutter troughs, hangers and fasteners, resulting in loose fasteners and metal fissures. Choosing excellent fasteners and high-gauge gutters will help prevent many of these issues. Fewer seams mean less metal exposure for seamless gutters.

• Airborne Debris

During a storm, wind can blow debris into the air, but only huge material can knock down gutter sections. It’s more likely that a storm assessment may reveal torn or dented gutters. It’s crucial not to ignore small damage because corroded fasteners or a weak fascia might make it worse. If you plan to replace your gutters, use stainless steel screws.

• Tree Limbs

Regularly trim your trees in your yard. Tree limbs can damage gutter paint and caulking, exposing the bare metal to leaks and rust. Large branches can also bend gutter troughs. Keep 10 feet between the outermost branches and the roof. An arborist can assist you to clip the branches safely if you’re unsure.

Tips on How to Protect Your Gutters From Wind Damage

• Schedule Gutter Inspections on a Regular Basis

Keep in mind that some wind damage warning indicators are easy to overlook. That’s why it’s crucial to have a skilled roof repair contractor inspect your gutters on a regular basis. If you have a lot of trees near your house, your gutters should be cleaned and inspected every three months as a general rule.

• Trim Overhanging Tree Branches

Strong winds can easily knock down brittle tree branches. As a result, they should be trimmed before they cause damage to your roof or gutters. Allow two feet between your property and trees in all directions to avoid damaging your gutters.

• Check for Cracks in Your Gutters and if the Brackets Are Loose

If properly installed, your gutter installation should be able to endure moderate winds. Strong winds, on the other hand, may cause your gutters to slide back and forth, loosening the gutter fasteners in the process. In addition, metal fatigue may develop over time. Gutter cracks should be repaired right away. If not, they may cause other sections of your gutter system to deteriorate.

BSR has been providing roof repair and replacement services since 1913. We also have expertise in other home exterior services, including siding, gutters, windows and doors. Call us at (607) 678-3611, or fill out our contact form to request a free quote. We serve customers in Vestal and Binghamton, NY.