Understanding Rain Gutter Installation

Homeowners rarely consider the importance of well-placed and well-maintained gutters until it’s too late. Rain water or melting snow are only a few of the elements that corrode a gutter over time, and if damage is left unchecked, the only solution will be total replacement. Although it is not a time-consuming or difficult process, there is a science to rain gutter installation.

Prior to having the gutters replaced, it is important to understand the purpose of a rain gutter. A gutter is a channel or trough designed to catch the water runoff from the roof or eaves and carry it away from the foundation or basement. Without gutters, it is possible that massive soil erosion can occur around the base of the house, wreaking havoc on your landscape as well as the home’s foundation. Knowing the purpose of a gutter, it is easier to understand the where and how of installation.

If you have previously had gutters on the home, it may be okay to simply replace current units and locations using existing measurements. In order to ensure this is an option, inspect your gutter system (preferably while it’s raining). As the water flows down from the roof, it should immediately drain into the gutter. You should not be able to see any leaks or drips. The water should then flow easily toward the downspouts and out the bottom.

If this does not occur or you are performing a gutter installation for the first time, you will need to take measurements of the roof’s perimeter and the distance between roof to ground for downspout locations. It is best to actually draw out the plan; create a visual map with measurements and locations for the gutters and downspouts.

If you have inspected your gutters and are confident they need some work, you need a company with comprehensive gutter experience. They should be equipped in repair, replacement and maintenance, and the professionals at A&S Gutter have the knowledge and experience to meet each of these needs.