Something that is especially important for homeowners, but that most do not give a second’s thought to, is rainwater and the damage it can cause if it is not effectively managed. While most of us are aware of the need to protect the interior of our homes from water damage, the same is often not true when it comes to the exterior. However, protecting the home from rainwater damage is what rain gutters do on a daily basis.
As long as your gutter system is working efficiently, you do not have to worry about this. But it makes sense to know more about your rain gutter system and how it works to prevent rainwater damage.
What are Rain Gutters?
Most homes have rain gutters attached to the fascia boards along their roofline. There are lots of different styles and materials to choose from, and all have their pros and cons. The least expensive gutters are made from materials such as vinyl and PVC. They are usually made up of a number of sections that are connected to each other and attached to the roofline of the home via brackets.
More expensive options include the likes of seamless rain gutters that consist of one continuous length of guttering that is securely attached to the roofline. According to the experts at Global Gutter Systems, seamless rain gutters are usually made of more expensive materials, such as copper, zinc, and steel.
The Purpose of Rain Gutters
If you have never given much thought to your gutters, you probably don’t know much about how they work. Whatever type of guttering system you have, the purpose and function will be the same. They have been designed specifically to collect the rainwater that runs off the roof and then direct it to a downspout, through which it will then be directed away from the foundations of the home and into a drain.
When rain gutters are installed correctly and are in good working order, they will prevent damage to the house that might otherwise occur from rainwater dripping down the side of the home and into the foundations.
The Consequences of Not Having Rain Gutters
Some homes do not have rain gutters while others have systems that are not working correctly because they are damaged and probably need to be replaced. It is true that in some warmer parts of the country rain gutters are considered unnecessary, but for most homes there are benefits to having them. Moreover, making sure they are in good working order is important to avoid potential damage to the home.
Without a working gutter system, rainwater from the roof will not be directed away from the home. Instead, it will pour over the sides of the house. In time, this will cause problems such as damp walls (leading to mold and mildew) or issues with subsidence caused by water seeping into the foundations.
Having rain gutters is hence important. But so too is making sure that they are working as they should. This means checking them for signs of blockage and damage. Seamless rain gutters are less likely to have leaks because they do not have joints. Nevertheless, just like traditional gutters, they are prone to getting clogged with dirt and debris and do need to be cleaned from time to time.
To conclude, rain gutters can protect the home from damage caused by rainwater. Their main purpose is to direct water from the roof to a specific point away from the home, thus eliminating damage to the sides and foundations of the property.
