Complete guide to gutters: choosing the right one for your home
Best Houses Need Gutters. Gutters are essential to prevent stagnant water on the roof, resulting in seepage and moisture: here’s how they are made and what features they have
We often don’t pay attention to them, but roof gutters are essential because they allow rainwater to be collected and directed to collection points, preventing leaks and moisture: their function is to prevent water from being retained by the building’s foundation.
There are many models of gutters made of different materials, each having different characteristics to best meet the needs of individual homes.
Existing gutter patterns
The shape of the gutters (a key aspect that should not be underestimated) depends their functionality, which is why you need to choose one suitable for your home such as:
Wavy gutters
Square gutters
Round gutters
Half-round gutters
In addition to the different models, to be efficient, gutters must be complemented by other elements such as:
Open gutters: arranged horizontally they collect water and channel it to the downspouts
Drainpipes: these are usually closed and can be round or square in cross-section
Chords: these are fastening elements
Material of gutters
Gutters also differ according to the material in which they are made, an aspect that plays a key role. Each has its characteristics and advantages:
Aluminum: is the most widely used material because it is lightweight, so it does not add weight to the roof, but at the same time it is durable and requires little maintenance. Aluminum is a material that does not oxidize, which is why it is widely used in areas near the sea. Easy to clean, it can be used either naturally or stained to achieve a decorative effect. The limitation of this material is cost and it is difficult to repair.
Why do Houses Need Gutters
Copper: is an aesthetically beautiful material that can give character to the house, but at the same time it is also more expensive. On the other hand, it has a lot of strength and durability; in fact, a gutter made of this material can last up to 50 years without much maintenance even though it tends to oxidize easily
Galvanized sheet metal:
an inexpensive material subjected to galvanization to prevent rusting. In addition, it cannot be welded, only bolted, otherwise it would lose its protective function
PVC: easy to install, resistant to wear and tear and bad weather such as rain and hail, less so to frost. It lasts on average about 15 years
Galvanized steel: this is a very inexpensive material that can withstand time and weather. Easy to assemble, just assemble the individual components and use a silicone gasket to ensure a tight seal
Lacquered steel: more expensive than galvanized steel, it has the same functions, but in addition, has a better aesthetic performance
Why do Houses Need Gutters