Built-in gutters, also known as hidden gutters, are gutter systems integrated into the structure of the roof. Since they can’t be seen, they are popular with homeowners who want a functional and efficient way to manage runoff while enhancing the aesthetic appearance of their home’s exterior. While they have many benefits, as a design feature of the roof, maintaining and repairing built-in gutters can be more challenging than home maintenance for a traditional gutter system.
Benefits of Built-In Gutters
The benefits of built-in gutters include:
- Improved curb appeal and aesthetics
- Increased property value
- Optimizes functionality and efficiency
- Handles large volumes of water
- Resists wear and tear longer
- Requires fewer gutter cleanings per year
Useful Info About Hidden Gutters
Materials: Hidden gutters are typically manufactured from aluminum or copper.
Same material: Downspouts should be made of the same material as the gutters to avoid galvanic reaction.
Part of the roof: Hidden gutters are installed at the time of construction.
Common feature: Built-in gutters are a common feature of heritage homes, historic buildings, and architecturally significant structures.
Cost-effective: While initial installation and materials costs are generally higher than the cost of a traditional gutter system, integrated gutters have a lifespan of 50 to 75 years, depending on how well they have been maintained.
Maintaining Built-In Gutters
Regular maintenance of built-in gutters prevents expensive problems from occurring; ensures longevity of the gutter system; and keeps your roof healthy. Due to the design of concealed gutters, you will need to climb a ladder to stand on the roof. When maintaining built-in gutters, use standard ladder safety protocols.
Inspections
Make regular seasonal inspections of the hidden gutters as part of your home maintenance checklist. After active weather and severe storms, check the roof and the gutters for any damage. Inspections are an important tool to help you make timely repairs that prevent structural failure. While built -in gutters don’t need cleaning as often as traditional gutters, components of the gutter system, such as the waterproof membrane or fascia, can be susceptible to wear and tear, eventually causing leaks. Hire a roofing contractor to do a professional inspection every three to five years.
Clean the Gutters
While built-in gutters don’t accumulate debris as quickly as traditional gutters and are less prone to clogs, hidden gutters do require cleaning at least once a year, depending on how many trees grow on the property and how many of those are close to the roof.
Seal Seams
Seams that are worn can spring a leak. Other types of damage to look out for when conducting visual inspections are cracks due to expansion and contraction, punctures, and membrane shrinkage. Seams and corners can be sealed and minor repairs made to the membrane with waterproof sealant. Check the manufacturer’s website/documentation for any specific instructions regarding products to be used for repairs.
Signs Built-In Gutters Need Repair
Troubleshooting gutters is important if you are to protect your house and your home’s exterior from water damage. Look for these signs, your built-in gutters need repair:
- Stained siding, interior walls, and/or ceilings
- Rotted wood – fascia boards, soffits, window/door trim
- Peeling paint on soffits or siding
- Dripping from soffit panels
- Mold growth near the roofline
- Sagging sections of the roofline
