By Rachelle Wilber
Rain gutters are a critical part of any home’s exterior. They act as a shield for your home, protecting it from water damage and providing you with peace of mind. But what exactly is a rain gutter system, and why is it so important? Here are five important facts about rain gutter systems that you should know.
Types of Gutters
There are many types of rain gutter systems available. Some common types include sectional aluminum, seamless aluminum, vinyl, steel, copper, and wood. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on the size of your home and the specific weather conditions in your area. Choosing the correct type of gutter system for your needs can help ensure that it lasts longer and performs better over time.
Downspouts
In addition to the gutter itself, the downspout is an essential part of any rain gutter system. This pipe or tube connects to the gutter and transports water away from your foundation and other areas where it can cause damage. It’s important to ensure that your downspouts extend at least three feet away from your home to keep water away from vulnerable areas like window wells or door sills.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is vital when it comes to keeping your rain gutter system in good shape over time. This includes cleaning out debris such as leaves or sticks that may clog up the gutters or downspouts, repairing any damage such as cracks or holes, replacing broken parts where necessary, and ensuring all seals are secure throughout the system. Regular maintenance will help ensure that your gutters continue to protect your home from water damage for years to come!
Benefits
A properly functioning rain gutter system provides numerous benefits for homeowners, including reducing erosion around the foundation of their homes, protecting siding and window sills from water damage caused by overflowing gutters, preventing flooding during heavy rains, helping keep basements dryer by directing water away from them, protecting landscaping by diverting water away from shrubs or flower beds near the house and helping prevent mold growth due to excess moisture around windowsills or walkways near the house caused by clogged gutters or downspouts not draining properly.
Professional Installations
Installing a rain gutter system can be tricky work if you don’t have experience with this kind of project—it’s definitely not something most homeowners want to attempt on their own! While there are online tutorials available for DIYers who want to take on this challenge themselves (at their own risk), it is highly recommended to hire a professional, such as Gutter Tech Enterprises, Inc, for this job in order to ensure that every step is done correctly and that all components will work together properly over time without issue. This will allow you peace of mind knowing that your investment will last for years without requiring additional repairs or maintenance due to improper installation practices.
Protecting your home's exterior with a properly installed rain gutter system is an essential task for a homeowner. However, understanding some basic information, like what types are available on the market today and which components make up these systems, can help set realistic expectations and ultimately help you make an informed decision on how best to protect your home while avoiding costly repairs down the line. Be sure to always consult a professional and have them complete this installation for you if you’re not qualified to do so yourself.
Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn't on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on twitter: @RachelleWilber
