Top 5 Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your Gutters – Before It’s Too Late

Gutters aren’t exactly the most glamorous part of your home, but when they fail, the damage can be serious, expensive, and far-reaching. At LeafScreen, we’ve seen firsthand what happens when ageing or underperforming gutters are left too long. From water damage to insect infestations, the warning signs are often easy to spot—if you know what to look for.

Here are the top five signs it’s time to upgrade your gutters—before they cost you more than just a weekend’s clean-up.

1. Sagging or Pulling Away from the House

If your gutters are drooping, sagging, or pulling away from the fascia, it’s a red flag. This usually means the gutters are too full (often with leaves or debris) or the brackets have failed due to rust or age. Over time, this can lead to water overflowing and running down your cladding or soaking into the foundations.

Why it matters: Sagging gutters can lead to long-term structural damage. Upgrading to a new system with proper support reduces this risk.

2. Rust, Holes, or Cracks

Old steel or plastic gutters are prone to rust, cracking, or splitting, especially in New Zealand’s harsh coastal and alpine climates. You might notice rusty patches, visible holes, or water dripping in places it shouldn’t.

Why it matters: These faults allow water to leak behind the gutter and into the building envelope, causing rot, mould, or even pest issues. An effective functioning system is a smart, long-term solution.

3. Overflowing Gutters Even When It’s Not Raining Hard

If your gutters overflow during regular rainfall, it usually means they’re blocked or no longer draining properly. Leaves, moss, or even nesting birds can restrict flow. Overflowing gutters are more than just annoying—they’re a leading cause of moisture damage in Kiwi homes.

Why it matters: Consistent overflow can damage paintwork, soak wooden cladding, and cause erosion near your foundation. A custom LeafScreen system keeps debris out year-round, solving the problem at the source.

4. Water Stains or Mould on Exterior Walls

Dark streaks or mould patches on your cladding can be a subtle but important warning sign. These often show up where water has been repeatedly overflowing or leaking from faulty joins.

Why it matters: Left unchecked, this water damage can lead to internal leaks or rot, especially around windows and eaves. New gutters with correct fall will help direct water exactly where it should go.

5. You’re Constantly Cleaning Them (Or Avoiding It Altogether)

Let’s face it: cleaning gutters is messy, dangerous, and easy to put off. If you’re constantly dragging out the ladder or calling someone in every few months, it might be time to invest in a smarter solution.

Why it matters: Gutter maintenance should be a once-a-year check, not a seasonal chore. Upgrading to a professional, custom-fitted leaf screen system like ours means less cleaning, better performance, and a safer home.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Wait for a Storm to Find Out

Many gutter problems are invisible until heavy rain or strong winds hit—and by then, the damage is already done. If your gutters are over 10 years old or showing any of the signs above, it’s time to consider an upgrade.

At LeafScreen, we specialise in integrated leaf guard systems that are custom-made for Kiwi homes and built to last. Whether you’re battling trees, birds, or just tired old gutters, we can help.

Get a free, no-obligation quote today and protect your home before the next downpour hits.

Visit www.leafscreen.co.nz or contact our friendly team now.