Gutters are often one of the best investments a home owner can make
because when a gutter is properly installed, it can reduce your overall
maintenance expenses. Some homes need gutter caps in order to keep the
gutters clean. Some homes also need drainage systems to carry the water
away from the home to a safe low point.
Gutters should almost always be installed with hidden fasteners. The old
spike and ferrule installation method was good for a 2”X 4” or 2”X 6” fascia
but most fascias are now make with ¾” material. Spike and ferrule systems
are still often quoted because they are faster and cheaper to install but
sagging gutters are the result in a couple years.
Another common mistake that is made with gutter installations is not
providing adequate space at the downspouts. Here again, 2”X 3”
downspouts are normally quoted in a bid because they are cheaper to
install but large roof areas may need 3”X 4” downspouts.
Many homes have drainage problems. Landscaping can build up over the
years and actually start to direct water back towards the home. All
landscaping should have some slope away from the home and the ground
should not be above the cement walkways. We have had great success
installing 4” schedule 40 PVC drainage systems. These systems have
clean outs and can take roof water far safely away from the home. We can
also install drain basins to pick up excess surface water and direct this
away from the home.
Gutters and Drainage Systems
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