Gutters are a vital part of keeping your home safe from the damaging effects of mother nature. They are a part of an entire water evacuation system the leads water away from your home. Their primary job is to lead water to the downspouts which lead the ground and away from the foundation of your home. If the gutters are not able to properly perform their job, the water will lead to places that will result in water damage to your home. This can lead to everything from interior damage, roof replacement, and foundation problems which can result in severe, costly damage to other parts of your home.
Gutters must be maintained to perform properly. However, they do not last forever. Over time, the elements can damage your gutters to a point where they must be replaced. Typically, you cannot tell if the gutters need repair, servicing or replacement from the ground.