Why Working Gutters Matter for Your Home

Gutters are your home’s first defense against water

Every time it rains or the snow melts, your roof collects a lot of water. Gutters and downspouts gather that water and send it somewhere safe. When they work, you hardly notice them. When they don’t, the water goes wherever it wants, usually right next to your house.

What working gutters protect

Your foundation

Water that pours off the roof edge soaks the soil beside your foundation. Over time that can lead to:

• Cracking and settling of the foundation
• Moisture in basements and crawlspaces
• Soil that washes away or shifts

Your siding, trim, and fascia

Overflowing water runs down the walls and soaks the fascia board behind the gutter. That can cause staining, peeling paint, and rot.

Your decks, stairs, and entryways

Gutters keep water off decks and stairs, which helps them last longer. They also keep the water from dripping on you at the front door.

Where the water goes matters too

A gutter is only half the job. The downspout has to deliver water far enough from the house:

• At least 5 to 6 feet away from the foundation
• 10 feet is better, especially in cold climates or where the soil drains slowly
• Downspout extensions, splash blocks, or drain piping can help get it there

The ground near the house should also slope away from it, about 6 inches of drop over the first 10 feet.

Signs your gutters are not working

• Water spilling over the sides during rain
• Sagging or pulling-away sections
• Stains or streaks on the siding under the gutter
• Standing water or plants growing in the gutter
• Puddles or soggy soil next to the foundation
• Downspouts that drip at the joints or don’t drain

What to do

Keep gutters and downspouts clear, fixed, and pointed away from the house. A clean, working system is much less expensive to maintain than the damage water can do when it is ignored.

Not sure how yours are doing? Request an estimate and we will take a look.