Signs It’s Time to Replace Old Gutters on Your Home
Gutters play a crucial role in protecting your roof, siding, foundation, and landscaping. When they stop working properly, water can end up in places it shouldn’t — leading to leaks, rot, mold, and even foundation problems.
The challenge is that many gutter problems start quietly.
If you’re wondering whether your gutters are simply due for cleaning — or if it’s time to replace them altogether — here are the most common warning signs to look for.
Get a Professional Gutter Installation from Obsidian Exterior Services
Sagging or Pulling Away From the House
Healthy gutters sit firmly against the fascia board. If yours are:
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sagging
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bending
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pulling away from the roofline
It usually means they’re full of debris, damaged, or too worn to support the weight of water.
Once gutters detach, water can run straight down the exterior — soaking siding and foundation areas.
Cracks, Holes, or Rust Spots
Small cracks may not look serious at first, but they grow over time.
You may notice:
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visible cracks or splits
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pin-sized holes
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rust forming along seams
Even minor openings allow water to seep through, damaging fascia boards, window trim, and siding. If there are multiple damaged sections, replacement is often more practical than patching.
Peeling Paint or Water Stains on Exterior Walls
If the paint around your gutters or siding is peeling, bubbling, or discolored, that’s a sign that water is escaping from the gutter system.
Watch for:
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streaks running down walls
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dark stains beneath the gutters
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peeling paint on trim or fascia
Water should be traveling through your gutters — not over them.
Pools of Water Near the Foundation
After rain, check the perimeter of your home.
If you see:
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water pooling at the base
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soggy landscaping
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erosion around walkways
Your gutters aren’t directing water far enough away. Over time, this can damage the foundation, basement, and crawl spaces — one of the costliest home repairs to face.
Mold, Mildew, or Rot Around the Roofline
Moisture trapped around gutters leads to mold and rot.
Warning signs include:
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musty smells near the exterior
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black or green patches around fascia boards
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soft or rotting wood
This usually means water is backing up instead of draining — a signal your gutters aren’t performing correctly anymore.
Frequent Clogs and Constant Cleaning
If you find yourself cleaning your gutters more than usual, it may be a sign of aging systems with seams and rough interiors that trap debris.
Modern systems — especially seamless gutters — reduce clogs and require less upkeep.
If cleaning feels like a never-ending battle, upgrading may actually save time and money in the long run.
Overflowing Gutters During Rain
Stand back during a heavy rainstorm. If water is spilling over the edges instead of flowing down the downspouts, there could be:
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improper slope
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internal damage
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blockages
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gutters that are simply too small for current drainage needs
Overflow is one of the biggest causes of foundation and siding damage.
Your Gutters Are More Than 20 Years Old
Like most exterior materials, gutters have a lifespan.
Older systems — especially sectional gutters — wear out, separate at seams, and become more difficult to maintain.
If your gutters are approaching 20+ years, replacing them before they fail can prevent much larger issues down the road.
Why Replacing Old Gutters Matters
New, properly installed gutters help:
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protect the foundation
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prevent roof leaks
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reduce mold and rot
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protect landscaping and walkways
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improve curb appeal
Upgrading to seamless gutters or improved drainage systems ensures water is redirected safely — where it belongs.
Final Thoughts
Gutters may be easy to overlook, but they are one of the most important systems protecting your home.
If you recognize any of these warning signs, it may be time to consider replacement rather than another quick fix. The right gutter system can save you from costly repairs while helping your home look cleaner and more cared for.
Get a Professional Gutter Installation from Obsidian Exterior Services