They’re not usually the first thing you notice upon arrival, but gutters are nothing to overlook when it comes to home maintenance. The function of gutters is to divert the buildup of precipitation and debris from the roof and into specific areas in the ground around the home to prevent mold, breakdown, and other dangers to the foundation of a house. Here are five things to know about choosing gutters, so your home stays in tip-top shape.

Environment

It’s best to be prepared for the worst, so research the maximum yearly precipitation in your area when choosing gutters for your home. Also, consider how strong the winds can get in your area, the steepness of your roof, and surrounding trees to determine how much reinforcement your gutters need and how to best care for them. Homes in areas with more precipitation or harsher storms will do better with wider gutters, whereas somewhere that has little rainfall will do fine with thinner, smaller gutters.

Home Design

Playing off what materials you choose, whether traditional or more ornamental, next it is essential to be familiar with the design of your home’s gutters. Are they seamless or sectional? K-Style or Half Round? Downspouts are also involved in this process, and a good rule of thumb is to place one for every 40 feet of gutter. The design you choose must be conducive to the slope of your roof, the shape of your home, and the direction you are sending water and debris.

Gutter Materials

Know what type of material would best fit your aesthetic and home. A good rule of thumb is to choose the most durable material you can afford to avoid repairing the damages from failed gutters. For more budget material, vinyl is inexpensive. Still, it will break down over time, whereas aluminum is slightly more durable, won’t rust, and is the most popular option for a modest budget. Galvanized steel or copper will give you the most durability for the most extended time and provide the best look.

Rooftop Installation

If you are comfortable with ladders and engineering, installing a gutter could be an easy afternoon task. After laying out your design, drilling holes for the downspouts, and adding any end caps, you are ready to install the gutters. Be sure to fix the gutters to stable, architectural support pieces to avoid sagging or environmental challenges that could end up damaging not only the gutters but the foundation of your home by way of flooding. Always give a slight slope towards the downspouts for the most effective water removal.

Gutter Maintenance

When considering the maintenance for gutters, think about their primary function – direct water to specific areas and away from the roof. Check your gutters a couple of times a season for backlogging leaves, snow, or ice. If you have found an ice dam buildup, there are plenty of tools at your local hardware store to assist you, or stuff a stocking or pantyhose with de-icer and lay it on top of the gutter system and periodically move it as needed. If you want to avoid more maintenance, consider purchasing ‘gutter helmets’ or caps to prevent debris from clogging your flow.

These simple choices can make a big difference when it comes to maintaining the health of your home. The best method is to keep it simple, calculated, and get professional help when needed. Your home will benefit from choosing wisely.