No one really thinks about their gutters until there’s a problem – and by then it is usually too late. Gutters are an important part of your home’s weatherproofing, but there’s more to making a gutter system functional than you think.
One part of your gutter system that you shouldn’t forget about, is gutter flashing. So what is gutter flashing, and why do your gutters need it? Find out how gutter flashing can save an entire gutter investment.
What is gutter flashing?
Gutter flashing is a material, usually metal, that is used to seal the edges of your gutters, installed as an extension of a roof’s drip edge, at the roof line, directing the falling water straight or in the direction of a gutter.
Gutter flashings help to prevent water from seeping in and causing damage to your gutters or your home. Without gutter flashing, rainwater can get into behind your gutters and cause fascia board to rust or break down over time, not to mention infiltrations it causes after. In extreme cases, water can even seep into your home and cause structural damage.
Gutter flashing is an important part of gutter maintenance, and most of the time, overlooked or unknown by homeowners, that often believe to have a gutter problem when in the reality, they just might need a gutter flashing installation or repair.
Gutter Apron (gutter drip edge extender)
A gutter apron sometimes referred to as a gutter drip edge extender, is another kind of material (usually metal or aluminum) that combines the drip edge with a flashing function into one piece. In other words, it is a similar material, that will be placed below shingles, and extended until inside gutters to make sure it is all covered, and the water has no other place to go, but inside the gutters.
Does every gutter system need Gutter Flashing?
The correct answer is if water can get behind the gutter, yes! This gutter system needs gutter flashing. Some fascia boards (a roofing material, usually wood and PVC, at the roof line, or roof edge, where gutters segments are attached) are not flat and it diverts water straight to the gutter.
If you’re having gutter problems or just doing some routine gutter cleaning, be sure to check the gutter flashing to ensure it’s in good condition. If you see any signs of wear, damage, or watermarks, check to add flashing or replace existing flashing as soon as possible.
Why is gutter flashing important?
Gutters are not cheap, and gutter repairs can be even more expensive. By installing gutter flashing, you can help to extend the life of your gutters and fascia, which holds up gutters. Therefore, avoid costly gutter repairs down the line.
In addition, gutter flashings can also help to prevent leaves, twigs, and other debris from clogging your gutters. By preventing debris from building up, gutter flashings can help you avoid gutter overflows and the water damage that can come with it.
How often should gutter flashing be replaced?
Gutter flashing is not a permanent solution, but it can be durable, and long-lasting. Gutter flashings can become worn or damaged. If you see any signs of wear or damage, gutter flashings should be replaced as soon as possible.
Be sure to check gutter flashings regularly, especially after severe weather conditions, which can move gutter parts creating leaks, and unexpected water flow behind gutters. Replace them when necessary to keep your gutters in good condition and prevent water damage to your home.
Conclusion
Time to find out if your rain gutters have flash installed. Here are a couple of tips to identify that from the ground:
Check for watermarks on the fascia. That shows that the water is touching it, and is using the fascia as its path down to the gutter.
Look for dripping water in the middle of seamless gutter sections. That means the water is running in the back of the gutters. No flashing!
Any other sign you see from this point will be bigger and with more impact on the structure of your gutter system, or house. Don’t wait until it’s too late! Call Hands on Gutters for gutter repair, flashing inspection and installation.
Our company is one of the top gutter repair services in the MetroWest area.
Get a free gutter repair quote today!
Also, try our 4-in-1 gutter cleaning, and avoid surprises with gutter issues in the future.
