Should You Replace Gutters When Replacing Roof

Should You Replace Gutters When Replacing Roof
  • Author: Amanda Arnold
  • Posted On: February 28, 2022
  • Updated On: August 21, 2023

When it comes to roof replacement, there are numerous factors to consider. Whether you have gutters, you may be asking whether you need to replace them as well or if you can keep the gutters, you already have.

While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to exterior remodeling, it’s usually advisable to start with a new roof when it comes to gutters or roof removal.

The main reason for having a new roof built before your new gutters are because gutters must normally be removed before a new roof can be installed on your property, especially if the gutters are attached to your roof.

If you’re in the same boat, you’re probably wondering if repairing your roof entails replacing your gutter system as well. This is dependent on several things, which we’ll go over in further depth later. So read it before investing your money on new roof or gutters:

It Would Be Great To Replace A Gutter When Replacing The Roof

It’s common to practice replacing the gutters with the roof when it needs to be replaced. During your roof replacement, your roofing contractor should avoid removing the gutters. Even if your gutters need to be changed, wait until your new roof has been built.

When replacing a roof, it’s a good idea to replace the gutters as well. Roof replacement is achievable without removing the gutters in circumstances where the gutters have been properly maintained. However, in gutter neglect, the gutters must be removed to repair damage to the roof structure before the roof can be replaced.

A home inspection can help you determine if your roof or gutters are in good working order. A professional house inspection is strongly suggested. It would help if you employed an expert to provide you with information on small warning indications that your roof and gutters are too old that you may have overlooked.

When Removing Or Replacing Gutter Is Effective?

Because of their function, gutters must be removed and possibly replaced when a roof is replaced. If you decide to install new shingles on top of an existing roof, you’ll need to remove the gutters to ensure that the seals and existing roof don’t need to be replaced or repaired along the borders.

The removal of the gutters will aid in the correct sealing and installation of the roof’s edges. While a complete tear-off and replacement is sometimes more expensive upfront, long-term concerns linked with aging shingled roofs can often be avoided. In this instance, gutter removal is not only advised but also required.

You can see that the gutter system should be removed in almost every situation during a re-roofing project.

When Do Gutters Cause Roof Damage?

Controlling stormwater runoff necessitates gutter care. When gutters get blocked, stormwater runoff cannot drain correctly and spills over the gutter walls, causing damage to roof decking and roof rafters or trusses.

Without the proper flashings, gutters that aren’t well-maintained can cause roof damage. Drip edge flashings prevent water from leaking into the fascia and the roof structure. The drip edge flashing is linked to the roof decking and folds over the fascia to form a lip that supports the lower edge of the shingles.

If a roof has gutters but no-drip edge flashing, the gutters must be removed for the drip edge flashings to be installed by local building requirements. The back wall of the gutter falls beneath the bottom lip of the drip edge, flashing when the gutters are installed after the roof is replaced.

What Are The Main Reasons For Roof Replacement And Gutter’s Repair?

Your roof will last longer if you do annual roof care, including debris cleaning and early leak repairs. Gutter care, particularly the removal of collected material, helps to keep your gutter from failing prematurely.

You’ll wind up with a prematurely damaged roof and gutter if you forget to do these. Check your gutters for signs of damage if you’ve already determined that you need to replace your roof. When replacing the roof and gutter repairs, keep the following in mind.

Rusted Gutters

Water flows quickly through the downspouts in a fully functioning gutter system. However, if there is a problem with the gutters, such as clogging, water will collect in them. The longer water remains in the area, the greater the chance of rusting.

If you notice rust on your gutter, it’s a sign that it’s not draining properly.

Green Or Black Patches On Exterior Walls

A malfunctioning gutter system can be identified by green, brown, or black patches on your external walls. An overflowing gutter might once again carry water down to the exterior surfaces of your property. Mold and mildew can start to grow on your outside walls if this happens.

Get your gutters repaired now before mold and mildew cause any more problems. The damage may be limited to a single element or section of the system. In this situation, quick repairs can keep the gutter from falling completely.

Inappropriate Drainage Through The Downspout

Water cannot drain through downspouts because of sagging gutters. Instead of forming a pool in the middle, the water will collect in the gutter, putting additional strain. The gutter will gradually slide away from your house, eventually collapsing.

Water might pool around the base of your property if your gutters aren’t working properly. This water has the potential to leak into your house and your basement. It can also cause damage to the foundation, such as concrete cracks.

Final Words

Contacting a qualified roofer is the best method to determine whether you need repairs, replacement, or both. These experts can evaluate your roof and gutters in greater detail. They can detect the difference between a roof and gutter that merely needs repairs and those that need to be replaced.

Gutter repairs and roof replacement aren’t always mutually exclusive. However, having your gutters inspected by professionals is still a smart idea. This way, if they need to be serviced, you may do so at the same time that your new roof is installed.

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Author: Amanda Arnold

Amanda has been working with ConstructionHow since 2021. Her experience spans over 5 years in the creative niche such as home decor and trends, landscaping, renovations, and custom architectural values. As a home designer expert, she has a keen eye for the latest home improvement trends with accurate facts that readers find impossible to ignore. Being invested in home-building trends is how she has gained her lucrative expertise exploring more to bring a positive ambiance for all homeowners (and even tenants!). Currently, she lives in a beautiful beach home, a source of fascination for her.

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