Minnesota Leafless Gutters
Gutters and downspouts perform two main functions. First, they help capture and direct the roof run-off water away from the house. Second, they help protect the exterior surface and perimeter grading of the home from water damage that can result from the roof run-off water running down the side of the house or eroding the soil around the home. It is estimated that a one-inch rain fall on a typical 2000 square foot roof can produce up to 2,500 gallons of water. If a home experiences problems resulting from surface water, gutters and downspouts should definitely be a first line of defense. (Ask your installer about about a rainwater collection barrel). Harvesting rainwater also helps reduce erosion and evaporation due to heavy rain runoff.
Gutters
Gutters come in different shapes and sizes and should be selected based on particular conditions of the home, including aesthetics, slope and size of the roof, and local weather conditions.
The standard gutter is made of aluminum or galvanized steel and is attached to the fascia board at the eaves (roof line of the home). Other types include plastic and copper gutters, aluminum, steel, wooden gutters on older homes, and integral (to the roof) or built-in gutters on some newer homes. The standard gutter is 4 to 5 inches wide. The size of the gutter should match the anticipated amount and volume run-off for the roof.
How to Determine Gutters & Downspouts
The most commonly used is the 5″ Seamless Gutter
2 x 3 downspout for every 600 square ft. of roofing area
3 x 4 downspout for every 1200 square ft. of roofing area
For example: If your roof is 40ft. long and 16ft. to the peak
40 x 16 = 640 square ft. area *Requires (2) 2×3 downspouts or (1) 3×4 downspout
6″ Seamless Gutters may be required to accommodate steep pitch roofs or slate & tile and should always be used with 3×4 downspouts
Downspouts
Downspouts, sometimes called “leaders,” are used to direct the water leaving the gutters down to the ground or drainage system in a controlled fashion. Downspouts are secured to the side of the house and are often constructed of the same material as the gutter. Where the downspout discharges the water is important when controlling surface water around the home. Extensions, additional piping that extends laterally from the bottom of the downspout, are used to direct the roof run-off away from the foundation. Splash guards, or blocks, are used to prevent soil erosion if the downspout discharges onto the ground.
Minnesota Gutters & Downspouts: Many Styles, Materials, and Colors
Flooding into the foundations, basement or crawl spaces can cause erosion around the house and permanent damage to the structure. And since many insurance policies do not cover damage from flooding, in is vital to have a method to keep the water away. Installing seamless gutters is a fairly inexpensive way to protect the structure of your house and ensure a sound foundation.
Minnesota Leafless Gutters help you solve current water problems. Seamless gutter systems mitigate water problems from the roof to the foundation by directing water away from your building.
Call us today to discuss your options in gutters and gutter covers to keep water where it belongs—outside your house!
