Besides saving you from a wall of water as you walk out your door, gutters provide your home with protection from things like basement water damage; compromised driveways, patios, and walkways; cracked foundations; and landscape washout. If you have faulty gutters, your home may be at additional risk for roof leaks; fascia, soffit, and exterior wall damage; and insect infestations.
Gutters and downspouts are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, with larger options offering faster drainage, better protection from clogging, and a longer lifespan. Common gutter materials include aluminum, copper, zinc, steel, galvanized steel, and vinyl—each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Proper installation and positioning is key to efficient gutters. Gutters must be installed at the correct slope to avoid overshooting, overflow, and standing water. Call a professional gutter installation company to ensure that your gutter installation goes smoothly.
Gutter covers and screens lengthen the time between cleanings, and in some cases, alleviate the need for cleaning altogether. Gutter covers are solid pieces of metal that draw water around and underneath the cover while shedding leaves and debris. Gutter screens cover gutters with a mesh material that allows water in while keeping leaves and debris out. To learn more, contact one of the Best Picks below.