Can Leaky Gutters Cause Foundation Issues?
What would happen if your home didn’t have gutters? When you think about it, the end result might only be water stains all along the side of your walls, right? In reality, they are much more important than that. While simple, gutters are a system designed to keep water off your walls and away from your home where it can do serious damage.
How can leaky gutters cause problems?
If gutters aren’t doing their job of directing water away from the home, that means water will collect and interact with the foundation and soil around your home. Water damage is one of the leading causes of foundation cracks and support failure. Water damage can lead to mold, rot, and if enough gets into the soil around the home, erosion, which can become an even bigger problem than all the others. Sometimes even if your gutter is operating correctly, poor irrigation can lead to many of the same issues.
All of these issues can lead to serious foundation issues if left unchecked. Make sure to check your gutters and water runoff to make sure there are no problems with your system.
How can I fix leaky gutters?
To avoid potential foundation issues, here are some ways you can check for or fix leaky gutters.
Unclog the gutter. Check for leaves or other debris and remove them regularly
Fix loose fasteners. Often leaking can be attributed to loose fasteners. Make sure sections are attached firmly to the roof and wall where they should be.
Seal cracks in pipes. Check the runoff pipes and use sealant to seal the cracks or replace the broken sections
While you’re checking the gutters, make sure to also check the perimeter of your foundation. If you notice any issues don’t hesitate to contact us for an engineer-led foundation inspection. If there are any issues with your foundation, Sure Safe is dedicated to making your home strong again!
