Gutters are an important investment. They should look good, add value to your property, and last for as long as you own your home. But even before you decide on details like type of material, size, and shape, there are other things you should consider prior to purchasing a new gutter system.
Annual Rainfall
While it might seem like the Lower Mainland gets a lot of rain, it’s good to know the specifics. Before buying gutters, look up the annual rainfall for the past ten years. This will give you an indication of the consistency of the amount of rain per year that falls in your local area. In addition to the average annual rainfall for a particular time frame, a gutter contractor will also need to know the square footage of the roof. The size of the gutters and downspouts will be based on the volume of water the gutter system can be expected to handle.
Codes or Regulations
When having new gutters installed, you might be required to meet certain building codes, either municipal or provincial. If you live in a certain type of community or own a historic home, ensure all applicable regulations will be met.
Appearance
Give some thought to how you want the gutters to look: paying attention to visual impact improves curb appeal and increases property values. Factors governing the overall appearance of a gutter system include:
- colour choice
- certain combinations – for example, a large gutter size paired with an intricate gutter profile might have a negative effect on the home’s exterior
- whether the gutter installation is seamless or sectional
Warranty
Is a warranty is included? The two main kinds of warranty applicable to a gutter installation are product and workmanship. When a manufacturer (product) offers different options, choose a lifetime warranty that is transferable to the new homeowner should you have to sell your house.
