Gutters and downspouts play an important role in the protection of your home. Without them, rain and snow can pose a significant threat in the form of water damage. As part of an overall water management system, gutters in particular help to move water safely from the roof to drainage locations where it can flow away from the building.
Recent advances in manufacturing technology have yielded advanced gutter products that didn’t even exist just ten years ago. Some of these newer gutters have designs that reduce the amount of organic debris that collects near the roof edge. Others are sold as ‘self-cleaning’, a descriptor that is often a bit misleading.
Regardless how old your roof is or what style it is, there is a rain management solution that suits it. Choosing the right type of gutter for your roof isn’t always obvious, however, which is why it can help to consult with a professional Denver roofing company like A-to-Z Roofing & Exteriors.
Before you make your final decision on which gutters to go with, take a moment to think through the following considerations. With a little foresight and some understanding of what gutters are currently on the market, you can arrive at the best fit for you.
Start with Compliance
Before you start shopping for gutters, be sure to check with your HOA or other municipal authority to find out what can’t be installed. For better or worse, many homeowners associations will not allow the installation of certain gutter styles or colors. Be sure you check this box first before moving forward.
Also, if you live in a historic area, a deed-restricted area, or one that is governed by a covenant, be mindful of what building modification restrictions may apply to you.
Match the Gutter with the Rainfall Rate
Depending on how much rain falls in your area, you may need a gutter that is wider or narrower. Another factor to consider is the size of your roof—a roof with more square footage is going to collect more water.
It’s important to size the gutter to match both the amount of expected precipitation and the roof geometry. For example, a 1,200 square-foot house in New Mexico can suffice with a much narrower gutter solution compared with a five-bedroom home in Seattle, which would need a much more robust, wider gutter system.
Go Seamless, If Possible
It’s common for older gutters to have seams as a result of the manufacturing process used at the time. However, modern seamless gutters can be built on-site using mobile equipment. These seamless gutter systems reduce drag on the water that flows through them, and the smoother interior gutter surface helps to prevent clogs.
If your budget will allow for a seamless gutter solution, we highly recommend it, as seamless gutters require less maintenance and will go a long way in helping to protect your home.
Think Architecturally
Some gutter profiles are broader with sharper corners, while others can be more understated or thinner. And, there’s the color option to consider: what’s going to look best on your home?
Spend some time evaluating the different design options available to you when you consult with the Denver roofing professional you choose to install your gutters. Make sure that the style and color you choose are a good architectural fit for your home.
Make the Right Material Choice
Gutters can be manufactured using a variety of materials. Some of the most popular include:
- Vinyl. Vinyl gutters are inexpensive, but they often have shorter lifespans compared with other options.
- Aluminum, steel, or copper. Metal gutters are sturdier than vinyl, but there will be a bump in cost.
- Wood. As strange as it may seem, wood gutters are still produced for historic or themed homes. Though wood gutters might not be as efficient or durable as their vinyl or metal counterparts, they’re the best aesthetic choice for some homeowners.
Remember that your gutters should be viewed as a long-term investment into the health of your home. Paying extra up-front for the added peace of mind afforded by higher-quality, seamless gutters is likely to be well worth the added cost.
Also, paying more for better gutters can translate into saving money you might otherwise have to spend making repairs due to faulty, lower-quality gutters.
Need Gutter Advice? Contact A-to-Z Roofing & Exteriors
Choosing the right gutter for your home doesn’t have to be a headache when you have access to Colorado’s choice for roofing services: A-to-Z Roofing & Exteriors!
To start a conversation about new gutters for your home, contact us today.