Gutters are an important part of any home — they prevent water damage, ensure that structural damage doesn’t occur, and generally keep residential buildings in good working order. When gutter systems start malfunctioning, though, all of these things suddenly become very real possibilities for homeowners. In this guide, you’ll learn more about the new gutter installation process and why keeping your gutters in great shape is so necessary.
Know what red flags to look for.
Check for obvious damage – Signs of gutter damage are often obvious, even to Carolina homeowners who have no formal training with home renovations. If, for example, you see large cracks in your gutter troughs, sections of your gutters are bent, or there is obvious mold growth, the odds are good that your gutter system should be replaced sooner rather than later. It is, of course, worthwhile to have a professional inspection before your gutter replacement project gets underway.
Be aware of less obvious problems – Although large cracks in gutters are almost always visible from the ground — and may even have water actively leaking out of them — smaller cracks can be less apparent, but no less problematic. If you do not feel like you have the knowledge you need to inspect your gutters yourself, or if you are worried about falling off of a ladder, remember the team at Hatch Homes is here to help.
Understand your gutter options.
Zinc – Zinc gutters are extremely durable, but can rust, which is their biggest downside. Nonetheless, they remain a popular choice among homeowners who are looking for a tried-and-true gutter option that won’t break the bank.
Steel – Steel gutters, again, are durable, and can be coated in an aluminum/zinc alloy that does not rust in the same way that zinc gutters typically do. However, if you are on a tight budget, you will have to spend more on coated steel gutters than you would on a system made solely from zinc.
Vinyl – Vinyl gutters have steadily increased in popularity among modern homeowners, and are a good option when you don’t have a lot of money to spend. However, vinyl gutters don’t have the same high level of durability that other materials offer, so it is important to understand they often have to be replaced faster.
Copper – Copper gutters are the creme de la creme of the gutter industry. These gutters — much like slate roofing — can easily last for a century. However, you will pay for this kind of longevity up front. Copper gutters are pricey, but some homeowners find the added expense worth it.
No matter what kind of gutter system you ultimately choose, the most important thing is finding a reputable installer to do your home updates for you. Improperly installed gutters can actually do more harm than good, leading to foundation damage and other problems. That’s where our trustworthy, expert team comes in.
At Hatch Homes, we are here to help you every step of the way with your upcoming North Carolina or South Carolina gutter installation. Give us a call today to discuss all of your questions.