Whether you are building a home and you need to install a gutter, or you are repairing an older gutter system, it is important to make sure that you make the right choices when it comes to your gutter and how it protects your home. There are a couple of different things you need to consider when thinking about choosing your gutters.
Material
There are a variety of options you can choose from when it comes to material for your gutters. Seamless aluminum is one of the most popular materials, as it is strong and relatively flexible. It can also come in a variety of colors, making it one of the most versatile options. If you are in the western United States, fascia gutters are a popular option. For more mild climates, vinyl gutters are becoming popular because of their accessibility, but they are more prone to damage than other materials. You can also find steel and copper gutters, but these are more expensive than aluminum gutters. The material you choose will depend on where you live, the type of weather you experience, and your budget.
Locations
Making sure your gutters are placed appropriately in your home to protect the structure is an important part of the installation process. While you can depend on professionals to help you make the right choice, it is always a good idea to understand how things are placed for your home as well. Gutters should be placed around all of the edges of your roof, approximately 3 inches below the roofline, to prevent the water from overflowing onto the roof edge. When choosing the location of the downspouts, you should consider the land around your home and where the water will emerge. If you have a downhill slope, the corners closest are perfect for a downspout. If the land is fairly flat, look for places where you can direct the water a little further from your home, to prevent the moisture from pooling around your foundation.
Gutter Protection
Once you have your gutter installed, it is a good idea to consider gutter protection. Not only will your gutters collect the water from rain, but they will also collect dirt, leaves, and other debris that gets blown around. This debris can build up and clog your gutter, preventing it from being able to redirect the water away from your home. This is why there is so much advice out there about cleaning out your gutters. But what if you could avoid that altogether? Gutter protection acts as a sieve, letting the water through into the gutter while keeping debris out and away from the downspouts to prevent clogs. Not only does this reduce your workload, but it will actually keep your gutters in good condition for longer.
Having the right gutter doesn’t just improve the look of your home, it also keeps your home in good repair and reduces the risk of foundation damage or flooding. This isn’t a small decision, so make sure you are careful in your considerations.
Want to learn more about how our gutter protection system works? Click here to see it in action!
