Posted by Bealing Roofing No Comments on Why Are Gutters an Important Part of Your Roofing System Gutter Installation & Replacement in Hanover, PA

Why Do You Need Gutters

Rain gutters are a small but essential part of your home’s roofing system that protects your investment for many years. These troughs collect rainwater as it runs off your roof and channels it away from your windows, siding, doors, and foundation, thus preventing serious damage to your home.

Clogged gutters can lead to foundation cracking and settlement, basement flooding, soil erosion, mold damage, and much more. There are several types of gutter systems available but understanding the differences can be challenging.  Here is some important information about the most common types of gutter systems:

Open Gutters.

These are the most commonly used gutters (and most affordable) but are high maintenance because, in addition to collecting water, they also collect various kinds of debris like leaves, acorns, and dirt that can cause clogs throughout the system or downspouts.

Open gutters need to be routinely cleaned of debris in order to do their job properly.   During heavy rains, your home, basement, and landscaping can suffer considerable damage from clogged gutters and downspouts that cause rainwater to overflow.  Clogged gutters in dry conditions pose a fire hazard and the debris can actually cause water to back up under your shingles, accelerating wear and tear.

Add-on Systems.

Add-on systems are attached to your home with nails or screws under the shingles and into your roof or screwed into your fascia or gutter directly.  They hang over or cover open gutters and allow water to flow through to the trough, deflecting leaves and debris from entering the gutter.

Add-ons are two-piece systems available in pre-cut lengths and are not seamless.  Both open gutters and add-ons are two-piece systems and are subject to seams splitting apart, ice formation, and pest infestations.

Gutter Guards, Screens, and Inserts.

Gutter guards are a form of leaf protection that prevent debris from falling into the gutter and interrupting the flow while allowing the free flow of water.

Aluminum or plastic screens, sold in pre-cut lengths, are attached to the top of an open gutter with screws or clips and serve to keep debris from going into the gutter bottom.

Inserts, also sold in pre-cut lengths, vary from foam to rounded bristles and are inserted into the gutter trough to repel leaves and other debris while allowing rain to pass through.  Of all the leaf protection options, inserts are the least effective.

Seamless Gutters.

Bealing Roofing & Exteriors believes in using the best supplies and resources so you can trust that once the project is complete, your gutter and roofing system will last. That’s why we only offer seamless gutter systems. Seamless gutter systems are the most efficient in preventing leaks and clogs over their lifespan and are connected directly to the downspout.

Investing in a good quality system prevents overflow, increases proper drainage, and assures your gutters can handle various rain speeds.

For a thorough assessment of your gutter needs, from repairs to replacement, contact the roofing team Bealing Roofing and Exteriors today!