For most homeowners, gutters aren’t likely to be top of mind. Yet, they serve a vital role in protecting your home from pervasive water damage. In essence, your gutters are the unsung heroes of your home.
It’s no surprise that water damage can wreak havoc and can lead to expensive (and extensive) repairs. Investing in a quality gutter system is one of the best things you can do to protect your home from water and foundation damage.
With proper installation and routine maintenance, you can feel comfortable knowing that your home is protected season after season. The following information will help you understand what gutter systems are, how they work, types of gutter systems and the materials used to make them.
How Gutters Work
Gutters are specifically designed to collect and distribute water runoff from your home via interconnected channels. The channels are connected to downspouts which then redirect the water runoff to a safe place (away from your home).
When gutters become clogged with debris, water is not able to flow through them and the downspouts are not able to redirect the flow. This can lead to overflows and extensive water damage as well as a host of expensive issues including, but not limited to:
Without question, proper installation, quality materials and routine maintenance are the most important things you can do to ensure your gutter system is working properly and protect your home from water damage.
Benefits Of A Quality Gutter System
Outside of directing water away from your home and helping to prevent water damage, there are several additional benefits that a gutter system provides.
Extends Roof Lifespan
Water is pervasive and can weaken your roof, hence reducing its lifespan. Over time, water can seep beneath the roof’s shingles and encourage the growth of mold and mildew, leading to damage to the soffit and fascia. When gutters are properly installed and well maintained, your roof is much better protected from costly repairs or premature replacement.
Landscaping
By diverting water away from your house, water is not able to pool or flow in your yard. Water channels can erode the soil’s nutrients and stagnant water often leads to vegetation root rot. In addition, the stagnant water can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Roof Overhang
Without gutters, the rainwater can create a waterfall effect because there is nowhere else for the water to go. This often leads to extensive water damage, flooding, siding damage and soil erosion which can all impact the foundation’s structural integrity.
Siding
Siding is not impervious to rot and staining. Gutters that aren’t functioning properly can damage your home’s siding (particularly wood, stone and brick). The water overflow can weaken the siding and encourage the growth of mold and mildew. A properly working gutter system will prevent this from happening.
Gutter Terminology
It’s important to understand how gutter systems work so you can make a decision that is best for you and your home. The following gutter terminology should help you understand the main components and the role each plays.
Downspout (Leaders): The vertical pipe that guides the water from the gutter to a drain in the ground located safely away from your home or to a downspout elbow
Downspout Elbow: The angled piece at the bottom of a downspout to direct water even further away from the home’s foundation.
End Caps: Fit onto the end of each gutter to seal them off.
Fascia : The flat board that runs horizontally along the edge of the roof. They are also used as the foundation to attach the gutters
Gutter Guards: A gutter protection system specifically manufactured as added protection to improve the gutters’ performance and longevity by preventing clogs and the buildup of debris.
Hanger: A metal bracket installed to the fascia board which secures the horizontal gutter components and prevents them from sagging
Mitered Corner: The piece of gutter that fits on the roof’s corner.
Pitch: The tilted angle of the horizontal section of the gutter that allows the water to flow to a downspout.
Powder Coating: A dry finishing process generally used in manufacturing to coat/finish aluminum and steel gutters. Powder coating is beneficial in adding durability, reduced UV exposure and acts as a barrier to corrosive elements.
Seams: The space where individual gutter components connect. A gutter sealant must be applied on a regular basis to prevent the seams from leaking (here at Honey Do Men we only install seamless gutters).
Section: The unit of measurement for each gutter.
Splash Block: The surface (typically concrete or plastic) that supports a downspout to prevent water from pooling near the foundation.
Types Of Gutter Systems
Given their importance by the role they play, choosing the right gutter system for your home can be confusing. Fortunately, you don’t have to do it alone. Honey Do Men offers a wide range of gutter options to fit every home, style and budget to keep your home safe under any weather condition
There are two types of gutter systems: seamed (sectional) and seamless:
Seamed (Sectional) Gutters
Sectional gutters are pieced together from pre-cut sections. The sections are affixed to the home’s fascia with hangers.
Pros:
Budget Friendly
Repairable (if one section is damaged, that section can be repaired or replaced)
Cons:
Requires Sealant (to prevent the seams from leaking)
Seamless Gutters
As the name implies, seamless gutters are manufactured as a single piece in order to create a smooth, uniform (seamless) appearance. Seamless gutters are very resistant to leaks and are attached directly to the fascia board for maximum durability.
Since the gutters are customized and measured specifically for your home, the work to create the gutter is done on-site. Seamless gutters are a great option for anyone looking for a sleek, contemporary look that can’t be replicated with seamed gutters.
Pros:
Aesthetics
Great Water Flow
Secure (attached to the fascia board)
Resistant to Leaks
Custom Measurement/Fit
Cons:
Made On-Site
Specialized Installation
Gutter Styles
In general, gutter systems are available in three different styles/options. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, and each provides different functionality.
Half Round (U-Shaped)Gutters
Traditional gutter systems generally have a u-shaped (semi-circular) appearance with a curved lip and rounded downspouts. They have gained in popularity because they are low maintenance and the larger diameter and smooth interior makes it easier for water to flow.
The smooth interior makes half round gutters less prone to corrosion and are more efficient than other gutter styles. Once installed, half round gutters require very little maintenance. Half round gutters can be easily paired with a gutter protection system, such as gutter guards for even more protection.
Pros:
Traditional/Classic Look
Durable
Less Prone to Corrosion
Efficient Water Flow
Low Maintenance
Cons:
Expensive
Prone to Wind Damage
Prone to Debris Accumulation (without a gutter protection system)
K-Style Gutters
The most popular type of gutter system, k-style gutters are wider than half round gutters and can carry more water, which makes them highly efficient. In addition, because the back of the gutter is flat, k-style gutters are attached directly to the fascia boards using hidden hangers (without the need for brackets to support the gutter system). The angular shape and rectangular downspouts make k-style gutters prone to clogging, and the buildup of leaves and debris can encourage the growth of mold and mildew. One way to prevent this is by pairing the gutter system with a gutter protection system (gutter guards).
Pros:
Budget Friendly
Easily Customized
Water Flow
Durable
Sturdy (no brackets required)
Cons:
High Maintenance
Prone to Clogging
Difficult to Clean (because of the angular shape)
Box-Style Gutters
Generally found on large commercial buildings or multi-family residential buildings, box-style gutters are designed specifically to withstand very heavy rainfall and melting snow. Their large size and heavy weight requires a roof large enough to hold them and must be professionally installed. Instead of being hung on the edge of the roof, box-style gutters are installed under the roof’s shingles.
Pros:
Very Durable
Efficient
Water Flow
Cons:
Expensive
Heavy
Potential Roof Damage
Lacks Curb Appeal
Yankee Gutters
Yankee gutters, also known as built-in gutters or integral gutters, are an architectural feature of houses that is popular in the Northeast. Instead of being attached to the exterior of a home, these gutters are built into the roof or eaves of the house.
Pros:
Aesthetic Appeal
Increased Durability
Lower Maintenance
Ice Prevention
Cons:
Expensive
Limited Functionality
Accessibility
Limited Repair Options
Gutter System Materials
There are several types of gutter system materials to choose from. Each has its own benefits, but keep in mind that if your gutter system is not installed properly, even the most durable gutter material can fail and lead to costly repairs or replacement.
Aluminum
Aluminum gutter systems must be powder coated in the manufacturing process in order to provide both added durability and aesthetic appeal. Since powder coatings contain no solvents, little or no VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are released into the air during the process. With proper care and maintenance, aluminum gutter systems can last 20-30 years.
Pros:
Rust Resistant
Lightweight
Versatile (can be customized to match your home’s exterior)
Variety of Designs/Styles
Cons:
Prone to Damage
Can Dent/Crack
Vinyl
Vinyl is a popular material used to produce gutters because it’s inexpensive and is generally water resistant. Depending on care and maintenance, vinyl gutters can last from 10-20 years.
Pros:
Budget Friendly
Water Resistant
Cons:
Heavy
Can Stain Fascia Boards
Prone to Cracks and warping (in extreme temperatures)
Steel
Steel gutter systems must be powder coated in the manufacturing process for both durability and aesthetic appeal. Since powder coatings contain no solvents, little or no VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are released into the air during the process.
Because steel gutter systems must be soldered when being installed, it is important to only use a professional gutter installation specialist such as Honey Do Men. With proper care and maintenance, steel gutter systems can last 20-30 years
Pros:
Very Durable (can withstand heavy rain and snow)
Rust Resistant (when maintained)
Dent Resistant
Cons:
Expensive
Specialized Installation
Zinc
Zinc is considered a premium gutter system material, and is one of the easiest gutter options to maintain. Because of its inherent durability, zinc systems enable homeowners to avoid the costs of repair or replacement (when maintained properly). Once (professionally) installed, zinc gutter systems can last approximately 80 years.
The top-of-the-line premium gutter system material, copper, has traditionally been used to make residential water pipes. However, copper has been increasingly used to create gutter systems because copper is naturally resistant to water and fluctuating temperatures.
Copper does not require a finishing coat and looks beautiful on its own. As the most durable gutter system material, copper gutters can last over 100 years if properly installed and maintained.
Pros:
Top Premium Material
Aesthetic Appeal
Very Durable
Long Lasting
Resistant to Fluctuating Temperatures
Rust Resistant
Does Not Require Finishing
Won’t Warp/Bend
Cons:
Expensive
Specialized Installation
Considerations
Ultimately, the durability of your gutter system is dependent on a variety of factors, including installation, materials used and level of maintenance. However, there are other considerations to keep in mind before deciding on which type of gutter system is best for your home.
Basements
When rainwater seeps into a home because of improper drainage, it can compromise the entire foundation and lead to mold growth. Homes with basements are especially prone to water damage, so proper gutter system installation with high quality materials and routine maintenance is required for maximum protection.
Historic Homes
Historical homes (especially homes listed on the National Register for Historical Places) - john@smartsites.com - can we add a link to the national homes registry? - will likely require specific gutter systems, materials and installation. If you live in or are considering purchasing a historic home, it’s important to comply with all local ordinances.
Installation
Contrary to what many homeowners may think, gutter installation requires very specialized skills, tools and machinery, precise measurements and correct alignment. There is virtually no room for error, especially given the important role your gutter system plays in protecting your home. In addition, there is a great risk for injury from slips and falls, especially when the roof is slick with debris. Therefore, it’s important to hire a trained professional such as Honey Do Men to ensure that your gutters are installed properly and are working the way they should.
Maintenance
Routine maintenance is one of the most important factors in keeping your gutter system in good working condition. This includes inspecting for damage (particularly after a storm), ensuring the gutters are free of debris and making sure that water is flowing properly and draining away from your home’s foundation. When neglected, your gutter system will ultimately require costly repairs or replacement from the water damage to your home.
Educating yourself on the level of maintenance required for each type of gutter system is a great way to ensure that you make the best decision. One way to drastically reduce gutter maintenance and help prevent the accumulation of debris is to install gutter guards. Gutter guards are specifically made to prevent the gutters from becoming blocked.
Slope
Homes situated on a hilly or sloped lot require a quality gutter system because the soil around the home will eventually erode. Soil erosion can lead to severe structural damage to your home’s foundation. If your home has multiple slopes, a quality gutter system will help facilitate proper drainage away from your home, prevent water from pooling in the yard, and ensure your home is protected from the water damage that often occurs without a properly functioning gutter system.
GUTTER GUARDS
Cleaning the gutters is one of the least glamorous home improvement projects, yet it is an essential part of keeping your home safe under any weather condition. While gutter systems function to keep water away from your home, they are extremely susceptible to clogs. Clogged gutters can lead to a host of extensive and expensive issues, including roof leaks, soil erosion and damage to your home’s foundation. Gutter protection systems, gutter guards, are specifically designed to keep your gutters free of debris and other materials so that your gutter system can work properly
Benefits Of Gutter Guards
The decision to install a gutter protection system is typically based on the long-term benefits versus the upfront expense. Outside of preventing leaves and debris from clogging your gutter system, there are many benefits to installing a gutter protection system.
Reduces Gutter Cleaning Frequency
Perhaps the number one reason people choose to install a gutter protection system is because it greatly reduces the time, energy & money required to clean out the gutters. As a general rule, gutter systems should be cleaned at least twice per year to keep them properly maintained and functioning. Installing gutter guards will work to protect your gutter system from clogs and debris all year round.
It’s important to note that while gutter guards reduce the frequency of gutter cleanings, they must still be maintained. Twigs, pine needles and small items can still find their way into the gutters and will eventually need to be removed. Having said that, installing gutter guards drastically reduces the amount of required gutter maintenance.
Affordable
There are a wide variety of gutter protection systems available. Despite the upfront costs, many homeowners have discovered that their gutter guards eventually pay for themselves because they eliminate the need for gutter cleanings.
In addition, most gutter guards can be installed over existing (properly functioning) gutter systems, eliminating the need to start from scratch and install new gutters first.
Extends Gutter System Lifespan
Because gutters are often a preferred nesting place for many pests, gutter guards create a barrier that works to prevent birds, snakes and rodents from nesting. In addition, when gutters become clogged, it can cause water to pool which can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
In addition, when not maintained properly, the weight of clogged gutters can cause them to start to sag, or even fall off. Not only will this need to be addressed immediately, it can make your home vulnerable to pervasive water damage.
Pest Control
Because gutters are often a preferred nesting place for many pests, gutter guards create a barrier that works to prevent birds, snakes and rodents from nesting. In addition, when gutters become clogged, it can cause water to pool which can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.epairs or replacement from the water damage to your home.
Discourages Mold/Mildew Growth
Due to the fact that gutters often become clogged by leaves and debris, the decomposition can lead to the growth of mold, mildew and other organic materials. When these things flourish (especially in humid conditions), it can lead to roof damage and cause health issues.
Safety
Since gutter guards eliminate the need for gutter cleaning, the risk of personal injury is greatly reduced (especially for homeowners who prefer to clean their own gutters). Falling from ladders or slipping on roofs are some of the common causes of serious injury.
Types Of Gutter Guards
There are a variety of gutter guard options available. Honey Do Men offers a variety of gutter guard options to fit every home and budget to keep your home safe under any weather condition.
Types Of Gutter Guards
There are a variety of gutter guard options available. Honey Do Men offers a variety of gutter guard options to fit every home and budget to keep your home safe under any weather condition.
Shur Flo
Shur Flo is a perforated aluminum gutter guard that is undoubtedly one of the most practical gutter protection solutions. Because Shur Flo gutter guards are installed on top of your gutters with zip screws, they are stable and require little maintenance.
Shur Flo gutter guard systems include a 25-year, no clog manufacturer warranty and we recommend cleaning them once every 10-15 years.
Leaf Tech
LeafTech gutter guards consist of a built-in hood and louver which work together to keep your gutters free of clogs and are installed under the shingles of your roof. As water flows off the roof, louvers slow down the flow of the water as a first step and filter in most of the running water. Then, the built in hood lets the remaining water flow through invisible holes at the base of the hood.
In addition, the LeafTech clip design acts as a way for water to be diverted so dirt and debris cannot wash down the face of the gutter, keeping it stain-free.
LeafTech gutter guards include a lifetime warranty and will never need to be cleaned again.
X Treme
XTreme gutter guards consist of a stainless steel micro-mesh to prevent smaller particles (such as pine needles) from clogging gutters. On occasion, gutter covers can weigh down a system which can cause the entire system to sag. XTreme gutter guards are made with an exclusive, patented hemming process that keeps the mesh tight so that the guards cannot sag or separate.
Xtreme gutter guards come with a lifetime warranty and your gutters will never need to be cleaned again.
Honey Do Men has become one of the most trusted Gutter and Gutter Guard specialists in our area for a reason. We know that choosing the right gutter system and protection can be confusing. Fortunately, you don’t have to do it alone. We are here to help and are fully licensed and insured, so you can be confident that your home is protected season after season. If you are interested in learning more about how we can help or are concerned that your gutters may not be performing properly call us today and schedule a complimentary assessment of your existing gutter systems.
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Alejandra KingClient
David’s team at Honey Do Men did a fantastic job in our bathroom. Once all the materials arrived they started...Read More
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What an awesome job replacing our front door! Chris, Kip and Silvio were great at managing some of the unexpected...Read More
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Thank you Honey do men. I’ve waited 2 years to get my basement redone and couldn’t be more pleased with...Read More
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I had the pleasure of working with Honey Do Men on a tv mount install and hanging multiple items of...Read More
Alejandra KingClient
David’s team at Honey Do Men did a fantastic job in our bathroom. Once all the materials arrived they started promptly and completed everything in the timeframe, as promised. It was unlike prior contractors I experienced, where they don’t show up for days. We knew when they were coming and what they were working on next. We are very happy with the quality and professionalism of this team. We would be more than happy to do our next house project with Honey Do Men and would recommend them to anyone we know.
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What an awesome job replacing our front door! Chris, Kip and Silvio were great at managing some of the unexpected issues we faced. The team helped us work through them and the installation went smoothly. Excellent communication and support throughout the entire process. Highly recommend Honey Do Men for any home repair/renovation you may have. Thank You!!!
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Thank you Honey do men. I’ve waited 2 years to get my basement redone and couldn’t be more pleased with the results. I included a before pic for comparison. It’s night and day. From the beginning working with Vince was great. He guided me through the process, answered all of my questions and concerns. Then Angel came with his crew and did a fantastic job. I am very excited to be able to use my basement as an enticing living space, not just for storage. Thank you again for a job well done! 😀
Blair ElefantClient
I had the pleasure of working with Honey Do Men on a tv mount install and hanging multiple items of varying sizes and weights. They were extremely professional, polite, clean and precise in the work itself and took the stress out of what could’ve been a quite difficult process. I’ll absolutely use them again!
Debris Prevention: Gutter guards help prevent leaves, twigs, and other debris from clogging your gutters, which can lead to water overflow and damage to your home’s foundation and roof.
Reduced Maintenance: They significantly reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning, saving time and effort for homeowners.
Pest Control: Gutter guards deter pests such as rodents, birds, and insects from nesting in your gutters.
Prolonged Gutter Life: By preventing debris buildup and standing water, gutter guards can extend the life of your gutters by reducing the risk of rust and corrosion.
Choosing the right gutter guard depends on several factors:
Material: Common materials include stainless steel, aluminum, plastic, and foam. Stainless steel and aluminum are durable and long-lasting, while plastic and foam are generally less expensive but may not last as long.
Design: Options include mesh screens, reverse curve (or surface tension), bottle brush, nylon, and foam inserts. Mesh screens are versatile and effective, reverse curve systems are good at keeping out larger debris, and foam inserts are easy to install.
Climate: Consider the typical weather conditions in your area. For example, mesh screens work well in areas with heavy rainfall, while reverse curve designs are better in regions with a lot of leaves.
Ease of Installation and Maintenance: Some gutter guards are easier to install and maintain than others. DIY options like foam inserts and snap-on guards are straightforward, while more complex systems might require professional installation.
Gutter guards can be installed on most types of gutter systems, but compatibility can vary:
K-Style Gutters: These are the most common and most gutter guards are designed to fit K-style gutters.
Half-Round Gutters: Some gutter guards are specifically designed to fit the rounded shape of half-round gutters, though not all types will be compatible.
Box Gutters: Installation of gutter guards on box gutters can be more challenging and might require custom solutions.
Existing Gutters: It's important to ensure that the gutter guards you choose will fit your existing gutters in terms of size and shape. Some systems may require professional installation to ensure a proper fit and optimal performance.
While gutter guards reduce the need for frequent cleaning, they are not completely maintenance-free:
Periodic Inspection: It's advisable to inspect your gutter guards at least twice a year, especially after the fall season when leaves are more likely to accumulate.
Cleaning: Depending on the type of guard, you may need to clean off surface debris. Mesh screens, for example, might need to be brushed off, while foam inserts might require removal and rinsing.
Check for Damage: Inspect the guards for any signs of damage or displacement. Harsh weather conditions can sometimes dislodge or damage gutter guards.
Flush the Gutters: Occasionally, it's a good idea to flush the gutters with water to ensure that no fine debris has bypassed the guards and to check that water is flowing properly through the downspouts.
Maintaining your gutter guards helps ensure they continue to protect your home efficiently, prolonging the life of your gutter system and reducing potential water damage.
Alejandra King ClientDavid’s team at Honey Do Men did a fantastic job in our bathroom. Once all the materials arrived they started...Read More
Dave Cosmo ClientWhat an awesome job replacing our front door! Chris, Kip and Silvio were great at managing some of the unexpected...Read More
Paul Plutzker ClientThank you Honey do men. I’ve waited 2 years to get my basement redone and couldn’t be more pleased with...Read More
Blair Elefant ClientI had the pleasure of working with Honey Do Men on a tv mount install and hanging multiple items of...Read More
