Gutters play an essential role for your home. As they catch and channel rainwater, they help prevent damage to your roof, siding, and foundation, as well as minimize soil erosion around the perimeter of your home. For your gutters to do their job successfully, however, you need to choose them carefully.
Here are a few tips to help you choose the right gutters for your home:
- Choose gutter size according to your roof’s size and pitch. Standard gutters tend to come in 5” and 6” options. The larger your roof is and the steeper its pitch, the larger your gutters should be. You shouldn’t get gutters that are significantly larger than you need, but it’s also better to err on the side of gutters that are too large vs. too small. A gutter professional can make a recommendation.
- Choose your gutter style based on functionality instead of aesthetics only. K-style and half-round gutters are the most popular gutter styles today. Many people choose between them and other styles based solely on which looks better, but it’s also important to consider functionality. For instance, K-style gutters can hold more debris and rainwater, but dirt and debris can get stuck in the corners. Half-round gutters can be suitable for areas that have less rain and fewer trees around the roof.
- Know the pros and cons of different materials. There are many gutter materials out there, like vinyl, aluminum, and copper. Each has a different look, lifespan, price point, and maintenance considerations, so do your research before making a choice.