With spring fast-approaching, it’s time to focus on sprucing up your home and yard. There’s nothing like a change in seasons to give you a boost of energy to tackle those home remodeling projects. Although the warmer weather may give you the mental boost for grandiose home ideas, remember to think about the “small” things too. Pay attention to the aspects of your home that are highly important, but often go left unseen and unloved, like your rain gutters!

Does My House Really Need Gutters?

We’ve previously shared information all about rain gutters and why they are important to have on your home. Additionally, we have tips for cleaning rain gutters on our blog to ensure they’re working correctly. But know we’ll answer the question that is on so many homeowner’s minds (or at least ours), do you really need rain gutters? Well, of course, the answer is a yes and a no. Read on if you’d like to know more!

PROPER HOUSE DRAINAGE

For maximum effectiveness, you can create a French drain at the bottom of your downspout. A French drain is a trench with a perforated pipe buried under gravel. This helps prevent the water from splashing and helps redirect it into the yard, away from your home’s foundation.

WHAT TYPE OF ROOF NEEDS GUTTERS?

While there are no laws that require you to install rain gutters, there are circumstances in which it’s beneficial and worth the investment. If you’re currently working on a new build or considering a remodel, talk with your contractor about whether or not rain gutters are absolutely necessary. Typically, if you live in a drier climate, have concrete around your home’s foundation (such as walkways, driveways, etc.) or you have an extended overhang of the roof, you may not need rain gutters as a whole.

Rain gutters also aren’t necessary around the perimeter of your entire roof. So if you choose the installation of rain gutters on your home, keep in mind they’re most effective at the bottom of a roof’s downslope.

TYPES OF GUTTERS

Did you know there are various designs you can choose for your rain gutters? You can select the style and material that best complements your siding, as well as the overall architecture of your home. Here are some types of gutters to choose from:

  • K-Style Gutters: These mimic the look of crown molding, and resemble a “K” when viewed from the side. K Style gutters offer elegance to your home’s exterior.
  • Half Round Gutters: Half Round gutters tend to be more expensive, but are a great choice when trying to preserve a home’s historic appearance. These U-shaped gutters have great curb appeal.
  • Fascia Gutters: This style of gutter is built right into the fascia of your home. They’re best for handling large amounts of water and are known for their durability.
  • Aluminum: You can choose to install gutters made from aluminum, which is a very popular material. They’re extremely versatile; aluminum gutters can be painted to match any home’s facade.
  • Copper: Copper is a popular choice due to its durability and beauty. Copper is rust-proof and can develop a beautiful patina over time.
  • Vinyl: This is the least expensive material for rain gutters and is best for use in milder climates.
  • Seamless or Sectional: Depending on your budget, you can opt for seamless or sectional rain gutters. Seamless is less prone to leaking and is more expensive than sectional.

Check-in with a contractor to see if your home needs gutters in general or to check the current lifespan of your home’s gutters. It may be time for a change, but you don’t have to wait for your rain gutters to show wear and tear before you change them out. If you’re ready for a home facelift, new rain gutters can do more for the appearance of your home than you might think.