Gutters are essential components of the roof structure as they direct, collect and channel water away from the foundation and towards the curb or yard. Rain gutters are normally found on homes with a single story roof, while eaves gutters and downspouts are found on homes with a two-story roof. However, these categories of gutter systems can also apply to detached hipped roofs. Gutter systems have an oval shape which usually spools in a downward direction.
what do gutters systems do?
Gutters prevent damage to the home by keeping out leaves, branches and other debris from getting into the foundation. Rain gutters allow water to run off easily from the roof and down to the ground to keep it from stagnating. Gutters allow rainwater to run freely so it won’t pool at the base of the eaves or at the sides of the roof. If gutters are not maintained on a regular basis their durability and functionality will diminish over time. A gutter system does not only perform its primary function of protecting the foundation; they also play an important role in keeping gutters clean.
rainwater collection systems
There are two basic types of rainwater collection systems including downspout and parapet gutters. Downspout gutters are often installed on homes with a single story roof. Downspout gutters are designed to be placed near the exterior wall of the home but in some cases it is possible to install them without a lot of additional work on the home’s part.
gutter system maintenance
Upkeep of a gutter system involves periodic cleaning and checking. The primary objective of gutter maintenance is to keep the gutters free from leaves, twigs, and other debris that can clog them. In the summertime, the surface of the gutter system may become damp due to condensation. When this occurs, it is important to remove the obstruction so that the water can properly flow into the downspout. In the winter months when snow and ice has built up on the gutters, it is important to use a special cleaning agent to loosen and dislodge the snow and ice buildup. It is also advisable to scrape any ice or snow deposits from the eaves using a sharp broom.
Most downspouts are attached to the roofs of multi-story residential buildings. Gutters that are attached to the basements of these buildings are typically smaller in size. They are often made of metal, copper, or steel to prevent corrosion. Many basement gutters are equipped with an optional wrist mechanism that enables them to be operated from the inside of the house. Many newer houses are being built with an automatic washing system that cleans the gutter while the household takes care of maintenance chores. This system often helps to save time and money by not requiring the homeowner to do the work.
Seamless gutters are very popular in residential areas. These are often manufactured from vinyl, which is often considered to be more resistant to corrosion than cast iron gutters. However, seamless gutters require more maintenance because they must be periodically cleaned and smoothed. These gutters are usually available in different colors and styles. They often come in a wide range of prices as well, depending upon quality and brand name.