Why do I need a gutter system?

The purpose of gutters on a house is to protect it from rainwater. Gutters work by diverting water away from your home and its foundation. When your gutters are removed, damaged, or obstructed, that water must go somewhere — and, given the opportunity, water can ruin virtually any part of your home.

Gutter systems reduce water and moisture damage to homes. But why? Won’t that water just roll off my roof? Problem solved, right?

Wrong — that’s actually part of the problem:

Modern homes are designed to conserve or “trap” energy. That’s good. But in the process, such homes can also trap moisture and that can cause big problems and costly damage.

For example, if the soil around the foundation is soaked from roof drainage water, we can assume that at least some of that moisture will find its way into the basement, crawl space, or the concrete floor. Some of this moisture will then be absorbed by the air in the home.

If this occurs in the wintertime, we can assume that the warmed air in the home will absorb a great deal of moisture (warm air can absorb more moisture than cold air).

If this moisture saturated air finds itself into some spaces with cold surfaces — and it will, then some of this moisture will condense against these cold surfaces…Condensation at windows may just be bothersome, but in attics and walls it can cause fungal wood-rot and that can be very expensive to repair.

A functional gutter system prevents:

Water damage to your roof, causing rot, deterioration, or mold in shingles, soffit, fascia, and masonry

Moisture in windows, creating condensation or damaged sills or interior walls

Water along the foundation, spurring erosion, damage your foundation or basement flooding

How do gutters work?

Your roof protects your home from the rain by shedding rainwater to the gutters.

Gutters are the horizontal metal (usually aluminum) part of the system that is usually installed along the eave edges of your roof, or along with roof features like dormers. Gutters are open at the top to catch rainwater flowing off the roof, directing it into the downspouts.

Downspouts are the vertical, closed sections of the gutter system that direct the water from the roof to ground level. Your drainage system guides the water away from your home’s foundation.

How do I take care of my gutter system?

Clean and inspect your gutter system at least once a year. Most professionals recommend fall as the best time for gutter maintenance. Depending on the number of trees near your home, you may need to clean your gutters more often.

Keep that water away from your house!

Even if your gutters are in full working order, water from downspouts must be directed away from your foundation. Water can crack and crumble your foundation and cause major structural damage.

Two common DIY solutions are:

Downspout extenders: Extend your downspouts four to eight feet away from the foundation to keep water flowing away from your house. Downspout extenders are very affordable and can be bought at any hardware store. They might not be an option in neighborhoods where homes are close together.

Rain barrels: An eco-friendly, space-saving option. Prices for rain barrels typically range from $30 to $100, depending on size and style.

When is it time for a gutter system upgrade?

If your gutters are sagging, leaking, or visibly damaged and your downspouts are broken or missing, it’s time to think about gutter replacement.

Types of Gutter Systems

Most gutters installed today are seamless (also called roll-formed) aluminum K-style gutter that won’t rust or leak and are formed in one continuous piece on-site.

Copper is another option that is usually reserved for historic or high-end homes. It has a unique period look that comes at a much higher price.

Steel and vinyl are less popular because they eventually rust and crack, respectively.

For extra protection, add screens, filters, or guards to your gutter system. Each prevents gutters from clogging with debris and minimizes gutter maintenance.

Remember: don’t wait to make gutter system repairs! Your gutters protect your home from water damage at a minimal cost. Make the gutter system part of your annual or semi-annual home maintenance plan.

Need a new roof rain gutter? Give SANGOBUILD a call today to get a free quote.