5 Questions to Ask About Gutter Repair
Keep the conversation flowing
If you’ve noticed cracked, rusted, or damaged gutters, it’s best to repair them sooner than later. Broken gutters can lead to water damage, basement flooding, roof leaks, and even cracks in your foundation. Here are five gutter repair questions to expect from a pro.
1. How many stories does your home have?
Your contractor needs to know whether it’s a one- or two-story house so they can plan the ladders, equipment, and workers needed. Be sure to share other pertinent details, such as the age of your home and any unique aspects of your property, such as significant sloping. They’ll also need to know your address to ensure they meet building codes.
2. When would you like the gutter repair completed?
It’s best to repair gutters in the spring, before heavy rains, but you can also fix them in the summer and fall to prepare for the leaf and snow seasons. It can take anywhere from a week to several weeks to get on a contractor’s schedule. Contact at least three gutter repair pros near you to get quotes and discuss your project timeline.
3. What material are your gutters made of?
If you have existing gutters, tell your pro what they’re made of and how old they are (if you know). Gutters can be made of aluminum, steel, and vinyl, though some are made of copper and wood. Your contractor will plan the repair or replacement process based on the material. If you’re unsure what type of gutters you have, a contractor can assess them.
4. What type of gutter problems are you having?
Drainage issues outside your home often indicate a gutter problem. You might notice sagging, rust, cracks, leaks, pools of water near the downspouts, or damaged downspouts. You might also experience more severe problems, such as water leaking into your basement and puddles around your foundation. Be ready to share the list of issues to help your gutter pro understand the problem and get to the bottom of it.
5. What is your budget for gutter repair?
The cost to repair gutters ranges from $240 to $480, depending on the type of repair and gutter material. Physical damage from a storm costs more than fixing a sagging or leaking gutter. And if the damage is severe, you may need to replace the gutter instead of repairing it.
