subject: The Importance Of Gutters To Your Home [print this page] Did you know that gutters are a very important part of your roofing system? Actually, they're the main component of the roof in which rainwater is diverted away from the home's foundation. If they are not properly maintained, debris can really wreak havoc.
Basically, they are narrow metal channels that are attached to the fascia running along the edge of the roof. When it rains or snows, the liquid is channeled through them to the attached downspouts to the ground. From there, the water either goes underneath the foundation or out. They are usually made of a coated aluminum metal or some other similar metal. They're fastened securely to the fascia boards with either spikes or nails. The joints are sealed with silicone caulking.
One of the most vital things to know about them is maintenance. Regular maintenance and repair are crucial for correct functioning of the roofing system.
The smart homeowner doesn't allow his or her gutters to fill up with dirt, leaves, or other debris. If this happens, water will gather inside the gutter and stagnate. Eventually, this stagnation will cause leakage into surrounding surfaces and will most likely begin to rot eaves, fascia, and roofing. A worse scenario is when stagnated water is allowed to freeze during the winter, which can add stress and weaken joints.
Gutters not only help direct water away from a building, but they also decrease any risk of property flooding. Plus, they help to reduce the chances of any mildew or mold damage. No one wants to enter their front or back door on a rainy day only to find they're being dripped on from above. This is another great reason to have them installed.
Installing up-to-date gutters will also increase property value. It's important you buy the best ones you can afford because they'll pay for themselves over time. They'll also decrease the chances of insects finding their way into crawlspaces and your basement.
The very best time to clean and check them for damage is in the spring and after the leaves fall in autumn. And the best way to check them is to wait for a rainy day, walk around your home and make sure the water is going where it should be. This can also be done on a dry day by using a hose to spray water on the roof and then watching for leaks.
A great way to be assured you're buying the best and most efficient system is to hire a professionally trained contractor for the installation. That way you can be confident the job will be done right.
