Properly installed and maintained gutters will protect your home
By Kyle Valentini
June 1, 2011
305
Water is one of the biggest enemies of your home. It can lead to expensive repairs and even destroy it if it is not redirected away from your home. Improperly functioning gutters can lead to damage of your foundation, siding, exterior paint, sidewalks, driveways, soffits, fascia and roof.
When gutters are not functioning properly water can enter interior walls causing mold to grow. Unsightly and dangerous to you and your family, mold is difficult to remove once it begins to grow. One of the smartest investments you can make for your home is to install gutters and downspouts.
Improperly functioning gutters are worse than no gutters at all. Use these tips for your gutter installation and get it right the first time. You can avoid costly repairs and save money in the long run when you install and properly maintain gutters that will last for many years.
Choose rain gutter materials wisely. Gutters come in several different materials like copper, steel, tin, aluminum, vinyl and even wood. If you are looking for strong gutters on a budget, consider using aluminum at least .032 inches thick. Strong metal stands up to the elements without the high cost of heavier metals like copper or steel. Aluminum never rusts and that makes it a better bargain. Vinyl gutters are the easiest gutters to install by the do-it-yourselfer but become brittle in extreme cold and can crack. Consider what is best for you, your home and your budget when choosing material.
Consider gutter guards. Plastic or metal gutter guards are inexpensive, can be installed as a do-it-yourself project, and offer a great deal of convenience. Gutter guards are designed to keep leaves and other debris from falling into the gutter, to protect the gutter, and to prevent clogs. There are companies that install specially designed gutters that include a guard. These systems are effective but costly. Consider your budget when making a decision to do it yourself or hire someone else to install one of these systems.
Seamless gutters are nice because a leaking gutter can be a major issue. Upgrading to seamless gutters is always wise. These specialized gutters are made by bending a single piece of metal or vinyl, which means the gutter has no side seams. Of course, there are still seams in the corners and poor installation can mean just as many problems as a traditional gutter.
Dont skimp on installation. Even when youre operating on a budget, it is important to research and learn more about gutter contractors in your area. Professional gutter companies generally offer warranties and references, which means that you can trust the work will truly stand up to the elements. If youre not positive you can complete an installation project on your own, call the experts.
Maintaining your gutters will prevent damage to your home and the gutters themselves. Frequent inspection and cleaning are all that is necessary to get the most out of your gutters. If you are comfortable on a ladder you can inspect and clean on your own. Typically the company that installed your gutters will also clean them for you. They will know if seals are compromised and can make the necessary repairs to keep your gutters functioning at peak performance.
Properly installed gutters can last for 10-50 years depending on the materials you choose. Generally your budget dictates what kind of home improvements you can make. Cost can be justified when you know you are doing what is necessary to keep your home in the best condition possible.
