Aside from your roof and siding, gutters also protect your home against water-related problems. This component diverts water to a safe distance away from your home, preventing exterior, foundation and basement damage. A compromised gutter system can encourage mold and mildew growth, and also cause erosion in your landscaping.

gutter installation

Read on to find out if you need to get approval from your homeowner’s association (HOA) board when replacing your gutters. 

HOA Approval and Gutter Replacement

Do You Need to Seek Approval from the HOA Board for Your New Gutters?

If you live in a place that is not a part of a homeowner’s association, you have the liberty to do any changes you want to make on your home’s exterior. You will not need approval for revamping your yard, remodeling your living spaces or replacing your gutters. However, if your home is under an HOA, you will need approval from the board before doing repairs or performing renovations. The board will need to ensure your project adheres to the rules and regulations of the organization. 

It is a common assumption that only projects involving your home’s exterior, such as siding, fencing or roofing, require approval. However, HOAs can also have rules about making changes in your interior. HOA communities also usually require work to be performed by a licensed contractor. 

You will need to obtain all the permits necessary to carry out your project before it starts. Once the work is completed, the HOA will check the result to ensure it follows all applicable rules and regulations. As a local contractor, Hershey Exteriors, Inc is knowledgeable about the permits you need for your project. Our team will also make sure to adhere to all the regulations of your HOA. Moreover, we are here for your gutter replacement and storm damage repair needs. 

How Do You Get Approval for Your Gutter Replacement Project?

The approval process for renovations and repairs varies from one HOA community to another. It is best to get in touch with your HOA’s board of directors to learn more about how to request approval for replacing your gutters. Usually, homeowners need to submit a proposal to the board, which includes details about the project, schedules or timelines, who will perform the job and photos of the proposed project.

What Will Happen if You Don’t Adhere to HOA Rules?

When a homeowner breaks a rule in the HOA’s covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs), they might receive a notice or get charged with a fine. It is also possible for the organization to take legal action. The repercussions may depend on the rule violated or on your HOA’s CC&Rs. It may help to know that the documents and contents of the HOA governing documents are usually tied to state statutory laws. These laws offer legal protections to the HOA. 

How Do You Know if You Need New Gutters?

Before going through all that work, it's important to determine whether you need new gutters at all. Here are some signs that it's time to replace them.

Compromised Gutter Seams

The most vulnerable part of a standard gutter system is usually at the seams or where two horizontal sections meet. Leaks and separations are more likely to occur in these areas. Sometimes, a professional can repair gutter seam damage. However, you can avoid this problem by investing in high-quality seamless gutters. 

Cracked Gutters

Cracked gutters will not perform efficiently and will cause rainwater to drip onto your home’s exterior. Larger cracks are easier to see, but smaller ones are usually only noticeable during heavy rainfall. Even the smallest cracks can contribute to water-related issues, such as rot and mold. A significant number of cracks in your gutter system is a sign it needs replacement. 

Peeling Exterior Paint or Siding Damage

One sign that your gutters need replacement is peeling exterior paint. To maintain the beauty of your siding, an efficient gutter system is essential. If there is compromised paint on your home’s exterior, be sure to inspect the condition of the nearest gutter. You likely have a leak if you have painted gutters that are peeling. Consider a gutter replacement if a significant amount of paint is peeling from your exterior. 

The Wooden Components of Your Home’s Exterior Is Rotting

When neglected, damaged gutters can cause the wooden components of your home’s exterior to develop rot. Once these components start to rot, they will be at higher risk of damage when the next storm hits. Even drywall can suffer damage from a gutter system that is not effectively shedding water. 

There Is the Presence of Mildew

A gutter system that performs poorly can cause moisture to build up near the foundation and penetrate the basement. If there is a musty smell in your basement or mold and mildew growth, it could be that you need to have your gutters inspected by professionals. You need a gutter replacement if the problem persists after performing multiple repairs. 

What Are the Benefits of Getting New Seamless Gutters?

Reduce the Likelihood of Leaks

Seamless gutters have significantly fewer joints where leaks can occur, unlike sectional ones. Fewer joints mean fewer clogs and reduce the chances of leaks. A seamless gutter system is easier to maintain as well, saving in upkeep costs. 

Get a More Appealing Home Exterior

Whether you have a residential or commercial roofing system, seamless gutters would look aesthetically pleasing. This type of gutter features a smooth and sleek look, and this system does not have the joints common in sectional gutter systems. It is worth investing in these seamless gutters if you are thinking about selling your home in the future,

Find the Perfect Fit for Your Roof

Seamless gutters come in one piece of metal that is specially made to fit your roof. It means their size is more precise, allowing them to efficiently divert water away from your house. 

Choose a skilled contractor for your gutter replacement project like Hershey Exteriors, Inc. Our team also specializes in commercial roofing and storm damage repairs. Give us a call at (302) 569-9039, or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate.