Water damage is one of the most common complaints among homeowners. Each year, thousands of homes suffer damage caused by leaks, floods, faulty appliances, or plumbing issues. A leaky roof only makes things worse.
Rainwater can easily infiltrate into your home through the roof causing stains, mold and peeling paint. Moisture also promotes the growth of bacteria, mites, and fungi, which may affect your health in the long run.
The best thing you can do is to prevent these issues in the first place. That’s where rain gutters can help. In fact, many states are now requiring gutters on all new properties.
A good rain gutter system can save you a lot of trouble and unnecessary stress. Not to mention that it will help avoid costly repairs down the road. Choosing one, though, is anything but easy.
That’s why we’ve compiled this guide on what to look for in rain gutters. Let’s dive in!
Assess Your Options
Rain gutters come in different types of shapes. There are dozens of styles, sizes, and colors available. Choosing the right type comes down to your needs and budget.
Aluminum gutters, for example, are light and resistant to corrosion. Additionally, they’re much easier to install compared to other types. Copper gutters have a longer life and don’t require repainting but come with a higher price tag.
Zinc gutters are extra strong and easy to maintain. Therefore, they last longer than aluminum models.
Vinyl gutters, on the other hand, are extremely fragile and have a short life. What makes them stand out is their ease of installation and low price.
Other popular options include galvalume rain gutters, galvanized steel gutters, stainless steel gutters, and wood gutters.
These can be further broken down into seamless rain gutters or sectional gutters. The former are more difficult to install but don’t leak.
Is Bigger Always Better?
Rain gutters are available in a wide range of sizes. If you have a large roof, it makes sense to choose oversized gutters, which usually measure around six inches.
You’ll also find seven and eight-inch rain gutters. In general, these models are designed for commercial buildings and must be installed in 10-foot sections.
The standard size for rain gutters is just five inches. A slightly bigger model will handle more water. However, one that’s too large may not be suitable for residential homes.
Discuss your options with a roofing expert to make an informed decision. Rain gutters aren’t exactly cheap, so it’s important to choose a system that best suits your needs.
Consider the Shape of Rain Gutters
Another aspect to consider is the shape of house gutters. The most popular options are half-round and K-style gutters, which can be broken down into several categories.
A half-round model looks just like a half-round tube. This system is less likely to clog and can be usually found on older houses.
K-style gutters resemble the letter “K” when viewed from the side. They’re fairly easy to install and last a long time.
Curb Appeal Matters
Although rain gutters aren’t the first thing that comes to your mind when it comes to your home’s curb appeal, their design matters.
Ideally, choose a rain gutter system that matches the property’s exterior features and architectural style.
For example, if you live in a historic building, opt for half-round gutters in a vintage style. This can increase your home’s curb appeal and make it easier to sell your property if you ever decide to move out.
Ask for Professional Advice
Nowadays, rain gutters come in dozens of styles and shapes. Their price varies too, depending on the brand and model. A quality rain gutter system will keep your home safe and increase its lifespan, so take the time to research your options.
Don’t hesitate to ask for professional advice. Contact us today or visit our offices in Delaware or Maryland to see how we can help!