If you are like many homeowners, you have probably wondered whether gutters are even necessary. After all, they are prone to clogging, attract nesting birds, can only handle a limited volume of water, and can eventually pull away from your roof or tilt. Some roofers even advise against them.
Rain gutters are the most controversial type of gutter. They are generally not required by law on a sloping roof, and many modern homes omit them, even in instances where they are beneficial. In order to decide for yourself whether rain gutters are necessary for your home, it is best to first weigh the facts.
When Are Gutters Necessary?
There are many times when a gutter system is necessary to protect your foundation. Some of these instances are:
- Red clay – Ground rich in clay can be very difficult to work with, and once water makes its way to your foundation, the clay will serve as a pipeline to continue delivering water to the same spot. By using gutters with a drainpipe and ground-based gutter line, you can direct the water a safe distance from your home.
- The surrounding landscape slopes upwards – When your home is at the bottom of a slope on at least one side, water will pool along the foundation both above and below ground. Using gutters on that side of the home will allow you to redirect the water towards a downward sloping side. A small gutter along the ground will assist with any runoff from the landscaping.
- Little or no overhang – Roofs which fit close to the home allow water to pour from the roof to within a foot of the foundation, creating numerous problems. Frequent rains will cause trenches to form where the water forms. Rainwater remains close to the foundation once absorbed by the ground, causing extensive damage over time. You may also have to pass through a waterfall when entering or exiting your home during a storm.
When Are They Optional?
Sometimes, your property already performs the functions of rain gutters, rendering them obsolete. In such cases, having gutters adds maintenance costs with no benefits. Your home does not require gutters if:
- The landscaping around your home slopes downwards – especially when other factors are present.
- Your home is surrounded by concrete – be it sidewalks, driveway, or patio. In this case, the concrete already provides your foundation with a protective barrier from water.
- You live in an arid location – where there is little annual rainfall.
- Your roof has an extension or long overhang – which allows water to run off a safe distance from the foundation.
At Alamance Insulation and Gutters, we can help with all your gutter needs. We are a leader in the insulation and home performance industries centrally located in Burlington, North Carolina. We provide leading-edge products and services to customers throughout North Carolina – from Greensboro, Burlington, Elon, and Mebane to Durham and Raleigh. Let us help you with all your gutter needs!