While they might be the most overlooked finishing element of a home’s exterior, gutters are an integral part of the roofing system. A properly functioning gutter system protects you and your property. Here are four important reasons your home needs gutters.
Protect the Roof
Gutters help increase the lifespan of the roof by protecting the shingles. Runoff that isn’t efficiently drained from the roof sits on the shingles that are the first line of defence against water infiltration. When water collects or ponds during a heavy rain storm, there is a greater chance, especially if it’s an older roof, of runoff getting in behind the shingles and creating leaks. If moisture reaches the underlayment or even the roof deck, it can result in wood rot, and when left unchecked, structural damage.
Protect the Foundation
If your home did not have gutters or when the downspouts don’t function properly, water that isn’t channelled away from exterior walls can pool underneath the downpipes, near the foundation. Pooled water often leads to soil erosion, causing the foundation to shift, resulting in cracks, pinholes, or pitting.
Protect the Siding
Especially in the lower mainland where rainstorms or melting snow can lead to excessive volumes of runoff, a gutter system protects siding from water damage. Regardless of the siding material, the lifespan of your siding is significantly increased when water isn’t allowed to run down exterior walls. Compromised siding can also result in the appearance of mold or mildew; stained interior or exterior walls (leaks); and costly repairs.
Protect Your Landscaping
In addition to protecting your home’s exterior, gutters also keep your landscaping safe. A gutter system stops runoff from landing in places you don’t want it to. Gutters that work properly prevent soil erosion around the foundation and oversaturation of any nearby flower beds, trees, or shrubs.
Other Reasons You Need Gutters
The main purpose of the gutters is to channel water off the roof and away from the foundation. A quality gutter system that has been installed by a professional gutter contractor will protect your roof, foundation, siding, and landscaping. Other reasons you need gutters include the lifespan of your home’s exterior; the health of you and your family; and reduced maintenance and repair costs.
Curb appeal: Gutters are a part of the finishing elements of your home’s exterior. The right gutter system adds style and character when it complements the architectural style of the house, lending your property that “wow” factor.
Increased lifespan: Because gutters direct water away from your home’s exterior, finishing elements such as roof shingles, window and door trim, and siding are protected from exposure to excess moisture.
Basement flooding: A gutter system free of clogs and downspouts with no blockages won’t overflow or pool near the foundation. Basement flooding can be a direct result of a house having no gutters or a gutter system that isn’t maintained.
Health issues: Gutters safeguards against potential health issues caused by mold, mildew, and damp.
Fewer costs: When gutters channel water the way they should, it reduces maintenance and repair costs – you don’t have to pay for new siding or replacement shingles or the installment of steel piers to stabilize the foundation.
