Basic Things You Need to Know about Gutters

Mostly overlooked, gutters are actually very important to prevent flooding and damage to your home. Here are some things you should know about them:

Are Gutters Necessary?
First, figure out if your house really needs rain gutters. Most do, but there are exceptions, so consider the following:
– If your roof has no overhang or only has a few inches of overhang, it’s likely that water will accumulate against the foundation, damage flowerbeds near the foundation, and/or pour down on people as they enter or exit your home. In this scenario, gutters are a must.
– If your home has a sharply peaked roof with an overhang of 12 inches or more, rainwater will naturally tend to cascade out and away from the house, rather than dripping straight down to the ground to puddle against the foundation. In this case, gutters may not be necessary.
– If your house is higher than the surrounding landscaping, water is unlikely to pool around the foundation, making gutters optional. But if the house is slightly lower than the surrounding ground, gutters are required to channel runoff a sufficient distance from the foundation. Source: BobVila

Materials to Choose from
– Aluminum gutters: Most common of all types of gutters, these are inexpensive, lightweight and easy to install. They’re weather-resistant and available in many colors.
– Vinyl gutters: Vinyl gutters are simple to install and rust-resistant. Like aluminum, they come in a wide variety of colors. However, they’re not as strong as other types and tend to become brittle in cold weather — which can lead to cracking.
– Galvanized steel gutters: The most economical gutter, they are very strong and durable. However, they must be treated to prevent rust.
– Stainless steel gutters: These are popular because they are very strong, maintain their sheen and will not rust. They are costly, though. Source: Networx

Sectional vs. Seamless
The final thing to consider is whether you want sectional versus seamless gutters. Most materials are only available in sections that are joined and fastened together as they are installed. Aluminum gutters, however, are now available in seamless varieties, custom made to fit your home out of single, long sheets of metal. The advantages here are obvious. The most common place a gutter fails after years of wear is at the joints and seams. A seamless gutter will never have this problem, making it a popular choice for those who can afford the extra cost. Source: HomeAdvisor

Do you have any gutter-related needs? We’ll be more than happy to take care of them for you. Contact us for a free estimate!

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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