Why are Gutters Important?
Many homeowners overlook the importance of a properly installed gutter system and drip edge. This series of canals greatly reduces the amount of water that is absorbed into the ground next to the foundation of your home. In turn, this prevents damage to the cement and decreases the likelihood of leaks in and around your home’s foundation or basement. Understanding how this system works can help homeowners identify problems before they become severe. As a trusted Charlotte area roofing contractor for nearly 20 years, Southern Home Services is well-equipped to inspect the system and conduct any needed repairs. After all, the gutter is one of the home’s best defenses against water damage.
What to Look for
End caps are used to prevent water from flowing out of the gutter instead of the downspout. If these are not securely fastened, water can pour from the gutter in mass amounts. When considering the surface area of the roof and the amount of liquid that is fed into the canal, this can be a noteworthy stream of water. It may be prudent to have the end caps inspected after each winter to ensure that ice hasn’t begun to separate them from the rest of the system.
A joiner is used in gutter systems that are partitioned. This piece connects two sections of the canal together. The component is also used to connect a single canal to a corner section. If the joiner isn’t properly attached on either side, water may be able to leak through and collect on the ground below. This is easy to identify, as a steady drip will be apparent from the joiner during a rain storm.
The hanger is the piece that fastens the system to the roof. All of these structures need to be sturdy in order for the system to function properly. The gutter needs to support a great deal of weight from water and snow. If these hangers are compromised in any way, the gutter can begin to fall apart.
A drop outlet is where the water goes in order to be dispersed by the downspout. Essentially, it’s like a drain for the gutter which acts in a similar fashion to a drain on a sink. This section of the system is where the majority of clogs will develop. Twigs, leaves and other debris can get caught before the downspout, creating a blockage.
