Earlier this year we discussed some of the typical causes of gutter damage. But does your roof even need gutters?
The short answer: probably, but not always. It may seem strange to see a house without gutters, but every once in a while you might encounter one. In fact, whether your home actually needs gutters depends on the build of your home, where your home is, and whether your home experiences water-related issues. Here’s everything you need to know about gutters or gutter installation.
WHAT DO GUTTERS ACTUALLY DO?
Gutters control the water that hits your roof, directing it into a single flow that moves away from your house. Without gutters, it’s possible that water runoff will build up around your home, getting into your foundation and causing water damage over time. Gutters are not able to move water away effectively unless they’re frequently cleaned—and damaged gutters can actually cause more damage than not having gutters at all because they can cause water to pool along your roof.
In addition to moving water away, gutters can also help to prevent erosion by controlling water runoff. This protects any landscaping that’s around a property, though, understandably, if there is no landscaping around the property it may not be as significant an issue.
WHEN WOULDN’T YOU NEED GUTTERS?
Homes that are in places that don’t experience a lot of rainfall or snow often don’t need gutters, because the amount of water falling along a roof isn’t significant enough to require them. Gutters are intended to protect against water damage over time; if there isn’t a lot of water on a regular basis, that damage isn’t going to occur. However, here in Western Kentucky and Southern Illinois, that isn’t the case! We have more than enough rain and snow to damage your home.
Homes are less likely to need gutters if the ground slopes away from them. A house on a hill is not as likely to need gutters, because the rain is naturally going to flow away. A home surrounded by concrete may also not need gutters, but there must be some slope for the water to run away from the home as well.
WHY SHOULD YOU INSTALL GUTTERS?
Gutters, as long as they’re well-maintained, provide insurance against future roof, foundation, erosion and moisture issues. In most areas, gutters are necessary, because of the amount of rainfall. Gutters are more likely to be useful in areas where the ground slopes towards a home. Unless your roofer specifically tells you that you shouldn’t have gutters, it’s a good idea to install them.
WHEN MIGHT YOUR ROOF NOT NEED GUTTERS?
It is important to note that some types of roofing may not need gutters. Roofs that have significant overhang will direct water away from the house regardless, which means your home is less likely to need gutters. In some homes, the attractiveness of the home may be benefited by extending the roof rather than adding gutters.
If you have questions about whether you need gutters for your specific type of home or business, contact us at Gutter Boyz of Kentucky. We will always give you an honest answer along with an explanation about how we may, or may not be able to help you. Give us a call today at (270) 906-3055 or CLICK HERE to contact us.