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Rain gutters protect your home by channeling water away from its foundation and siding and prevent water damage, mold growth, and erosion.
Before you make a purchase, there are several aspects you should consider. This guide will help homeowners choose the proper gutter types, materials and installation instructions for their homes and budget.
When it comes to gutters, there are two major types - Half-round gutters and K-style gutters. Half round gutters are the preferred profile for traditional and historical applications and add an architectural accent to any roofline.
With the invention of the portable seamless gutter machine, K style gutters are the most popular of all the different gutter profiles as they are the most widely available, the least expensive, and the easiest to install.
Half-round guttersas their name suggests, are half moon/half circle shaped. The rounded bottom keeps the water flowing which makes it easier for leaves and debris to drain through the system. Half round gutters have a bead on the outside of the gutter that provides added strength and durability and it also provides a nice architectural feature. There are two different profiles available with the half round profile with the difference being the bead in the front. Historically, the bead rolled to the outside and this profile is called traditional bead or single bead. The invention of the seamless half round gutter machine brought a half round gutter system with the bead rolling to the inside which allows for using hidden hangers that are commonly used with k style gutters.
K-style gutters, also called ogee or OG gutters, have a flat back, a flat bottom, and a decorative front. They are the most commonly installed gutters on residential homes. Many contractors have the machinery to make K-Style gutters at the job site, providing longer lengths and ultimately fewer seams.
Because this style has a flat back, the gutter hangers can be screwed directly to the fascia board. Some of the advantages of K-style gutters are that they provide a seamless finish making it less prone to leaks, can hold more water than a rounded style gutter, offer a stylish appearance for the homes exterior, and are less likely to bend or buckle under snow and ice conditions or when a ladder is placed against the gutter.
K-style channels are available in many materials, including aluminum, galvanized steel, copper, and galvalume, and paint grip steel. They come in various sizes and colors to match your homes trim.
Understanding the "anatomy" of a gutter system is essential to maintain the system for many years and to spot potential problems. Below is a comprehensive list of the parts that make up a gutter system. While every gutter system may not include all these parts, most of them will have the major components.
Gutter installation is not complex. An experienced contractor has the tools and materials to install your gutters quickly and efficiently. You may hire a full-service contractor through a local home improvement store or by contacting a gutter installation company directly.
After installation, clean your gutters regularly to ensure they function correctly and last long.
Most homes require no more than the commonly used five-inch or six-inch gutters.
The size of your gutter depends on the following factors.
If you belong to a place that receives hefty rainfall or has a large and steep roof, you may need larger gutters. And if there are a lot of trees near your home, you will need to clean your gutters more often, so you may want to choose larger gutters that can handle more debris.
If you have a sloped roof, gutters must direct the rainwater water away from your home's foundation. Without gutters, the water would pool around your home and cause damage to the foundation or landscaping. Gutters also prevent water stains on your siding and basement flooding.
Gutters are made from various materials. Some of them are aluminum, steel, vinyl, and copper. The lifespan of your gutters will depend on the material they are made from and how well they are maintained. Generally, gutters made from aluminum or steel will last 20-30 years, while vinyl gutters will last 10-20 years. Copper gutters have the most extended lifespan and come with a warranty of up to 50 years. Regular gutter cleaning and gutter repair prevent them from wearing out prematurely.
Gutter prices vary depending on the size and material of the gutters. Aluminum gutters are the most affordable, while copper gutters are the most expensive. The price of one linear foot starts from around $5-10 for an aluminum gutter and $30-50 for a copper gutter. Prices can greatly vary depending on the height, how cut up (how many miters) the job is, and the type of gutter brackets that are needed for that particular application.
The best type of gutter depends on your needs and budget. For instance, aluminum gutters are a good choice if you are looking for an affordable option. If you are from a place with heavy rainfall, you may want to choose gutters made from steel, galvalume, or zinc as these materials are more durable. Copper gutters are the most expensive but have the longest lifespan. They add a touch of elegance to your home and are low maintenance.
Installing gutters is not a difficult task, but it is time-consuming. If you are short on time or not confident in your DIY skills, it is best to hire a professional and install gutters. Professional installation ensures that the job is done correctly and can save you time and hassle in the long run.
If gutters are sagging, it may be due to a problem with the hangers or brackets that hold the gutters in place. You will need to replace the hangers or brackets to fix this problem. It is a relatively simple task that you can do yourself, but it is always recommended to speak to a trained contractor if you are unsure.
Gutter leaf guards are not necessary for all homes, but they can be helpful if you live in an area with many trees. Leaf guards prevent leaves, twigs, and other debris from clogging your gutters and, thus, save your home from potential water damage. It lowers the time you spend cleaning the gutters. If you decide to install leaf guards, be sure to choose a type that is compatible with your gutter system.
It is not necessary to install gutters around the entire perimeter of your house. If you have a sloped roof, you will need to install gutters on the roof section that slopes down toward your home. To prevent water damage, you may also want to consider installing gutters on other parts of your house, such as porches or patios.
