How important are gutters?

By The Coffee Shops™. 

Gutters are more than just an aesthetic choice – they're a key part of your home and roof performance.  

According to an All Craft Exteriors’ gutter specialist, properly installed gutters are more than just a way to keep rain off the front step. They help direct runoff water away from the areas below the roofline, reducing the risk of foundation damage, erosion, basement moisture and washed-out landscaping. 

The importance of gutters becomes even more apparent when looking at a roof valley. A roof valley is where the intersection of two sloping roof planes creates an internal angle – or a valley. The two sloping planes act as funnels for water, bringing a large amount into one place. If you don’t have a proper gutter system, that runoff can create erosion lines, gradually dig holes into the yard and even degrade parts of a building’s siding.  

So, it’s pretty clear that gutters are important, but are all systems built the same? The short answer is no. The longer answer is that it depends on installation quality. You cannot just put a gutter randomly on a house and assume it will protect you; the installation must be done correctly to avoid water damage. What does the correct method of installation look like?  

The experts from All Craft Exteriors note that the industry standard calls for one downspout every 40 to 50 feet, though some installers reduce the number to lower costs. Systems may also underperform when installers rely heavily on sealants or estimate the slope rather than properly leveling the gutters. All Craft's preferred installation process involves proper leveling/sloping, stronger hangers with built-in angled fasteners, box miters at corners and high-performance sealant designed for long-term performance. 

This might seem like a lot to manage, and it might be tempting to not bother, but it is very much worth the effort. Where a properly installed gutter system can cost $2,000 – $3,000, a repair to the damage done to a home’s foundation – something that is common when water is not properly guided off a roof – can run you $10,000 or more.  

Learn more about professionally installed gutter systems from All Craft Exteriors.