Gutters are available in a number of styles and profiles designed to protect your home and complement its type of architecture. Homeowners choose fascia gutters for their functionality and aesthetics. Fascia gutters are different from traditional gutters in several ways. Things to keep in mind when choosing fascia gutters for your home are the gutter installation process, cost, gutter material, and maintenance.
What are They?
Fascia gutters, also known as box gutters, are attached directly to the fascia boards of a roof. Unlike traditional gutters, a fascia gutter system is custom-built, designed to seamlessly integrate with the roof without the use of sections and brackets.
Benefits of Fascia Gutters
While fascia gutters have been around since the 1900s, they were typically installed on commercial buildings and industrial structures. In the mid-1980s, fascia gutters became a popular choice with many homeowners. Benefits of a fascia gutter system are:
- A practical solution for home exteriors with a narrow roof overhang
- Boosted curb appeal
- Very durable
- Have an above-average traditional gutters lifespan
- Better protection for larger homes
- Increased runoff volume capacity
Cost
Fascia gutters are typically more expensive than traditional gutters due to labour costs, customization, and the type of fascia gutter material that has been selected. Gutter contractors use high quality metals when fabricating gutter runs. Due to these factors, fascia gutters are durable, highly functional, and aesthetically pleasing, making them cost-effective and worth the upfront expenses in the long run – fewer repairs, less maintenance, durability, and longevity.
Fascia Gutter Materials
Materials for fascia gutters are similar to material for traditional gutters minus vinyl of PVC. They are generally made from aluminum (lightweight), copper (curb appeal), or steel (strong and secure). The gutter material selected is based on the homeowner’s preference, climatic conditions, annual rainfall, and budget.
Gutter Installation Process
The gutter installation process for facia gutters is typically more complex than the installation of a traditional gutter system. Because they are manufactured on site they are measured and constructed (custom-made) to precisely fit into the roofline of your home’s exterior, a fascia gutter system is unique to your house.
Fascia gutters are attached directly on to the fascia board. Since fascia gutters are a type of seamless gutters, they will need to be installed by a professional roofing or gutter contractor.
Tips for Maintaining Fascia Gutters
While fascia gutters require minimal maintenance, they can be a challenge to clean if the roof configuration is complex. If there are hard-to-reach places, minimize gutter cleaning by installing type of leaf protector
Inspect the gutter system regularly in between gutter cleanings and after storms.
Inspect and maintain fascia boards.
Repair or replace damaged areas. Depending on the extent of the damage, a gutter technician might have to fabricate a new gutter run.
