What is a Gutter System?

When it comes to being a homeowner, an important responsibility you have is ensuring your home is protected against unexpected damage and loss. From security systems, exterior lighting, perimeter gates, and gutter systems, each exterior feature has a role in safeguarding your home. And while many of these features have obvious functions, others such as your gutter system, may be less well known. Therefore, we’re breaking down what a gutter system is, and whether or not it’s necessary for your home. Keep reading to find out more.

What is a gutter system?

Gutters are a horizontal system, typically constructed of durable aluminum installed along the edges of your roof. These horizontal channels are open along the top and are connected to downspouts. The purpose of a gutter system is to collect water from your roof and direct it towards the downspouts, where it will then drain away from your home.

Are gutters necessary?

While it may not appear so, your gutter system helps prevent your home from structural damage. Without it, you run the risk of the following:

• Excess amounts of water seeping into your landscaping, causing it to become a muddy mess.
• Rainwater seeping into the foundation of your home, potentially causing it to crack and become destabilized.
• Flooding in your basement due to water seeping in through the cracks in your foundation and surrounding cement.
• Water damage to the upper levels of your home as a result of water seeping in through your roof.

Therefore, if you live in an area that experiences heavy rains, then a gutter system is recommended. However, if you live in a state with a desert climate, you might be able to get away without having a gutter system installed. With that being said, it might not be a bad idea to have gutters installed on your home, just in case, to avoid the possibility of water damage.

Signs You Need to Replace or Repair Your Gutters

Whether you are a first-time homeowner or not, over the years, your gutter system might need replacing due to damage or weathering. How can you tell? Here are some of the most common signs you may witness around your home, that can indicate that your gutter system may be at the end of its lifespan:

1. Water Spilling or Dripping Over the Edge

One of the first signs your gutters may need repairing is excess amounts of water spilling over the edges or dripping down when it is raining. This is an indication that they may be clogged with fallen leaves, branches, and other debris. In addition, it could also indicate that there are cracks or holes somewhere along your system that are causing water to leak.

2. Staining on the Side of Your Home

The next sign that may suggest it’s time to replace or repair your gutter system is water staining on the side of your home. This occurs when your gutters are clogged as water spills over the edge.
 

3. Your Gutter System is Sagging

Moreover, when water is unable to drain for your gutters properly, it can cause them to sag, due to the increased weight of the water it's holding. This can ultimately cause your gutters to sag and bend, as well as detach from your home entirely, causing more damage.
 

4. Water Damage to Your Homes Interior

The last sign you should keep an eye out for is any staining or water damage on the inside of your home, as this implies the improper drainage of rainwater somewhere along your gutter system.

How to Install and Replace Gutters

Although there are a lot of resources available online for DIY gutter installation and replacement, unlike other renovation projects, installing new gutters is often more intricate. Not only will you need to purchase all the materials yourself, but you also need to measure, install, and seal each piece precisely, to avoid damaging your home. Therefore, if you have never installed or replaced your home’s gutter system before, it might be a good idea to consult with a professional to avoid spending more money on repairs and extra materials in the long run.

Which Rain Gutters Are Best for Your Home?

There are a few types of gutters available on the market for American homeowners to choose from including:

K-Style Gutters

A K-style gutter is typically constructed with a curved edge to make it appear similar to a crown molding. Due to its design, it can hold twice as much water than some other gutter styles. These often work best with contemporary styled homes and sit flush to your exterior.

Half-Round Gutters

These types of gutters are designed similar to a pipe that has been cut in half to create a semicircular trough. While these types of gutters are efficient with collecting water, they are more prone to collecting fallen leaves and other debris. Half-round gutters look best on traditional styled homes. However, they do not sit flush against your home’s exterior.

Custom Gutters

Alternatively, custom gutter designs are also available for your home, should your budget allow it to help you optimize your water drainage, while enhancing your curbside appeal and architecture.

Install Gutter Guards

If you’re looking for a complete seamless gutter system, consider installing a LeafGuard® gutter system. LeafGuard® gutters are guaranteed to never clog and are constructed using a durable aluminum with anti-chip, crack, and peel paint. LeafGuard® gutters may also increase your curbside appeal and property value while requiring less maintenance throughout the year. Book your free gutter consultation today to learn more about LeafGuard® gutters!