How to Choose the Right Eavestroughing System for Your Home

If rainwater or melted snow falls from your roof without eavestrough, it can cause structural damage to your home. This is why it’s essential to have an eavestrough system installed in your home.

Many people need clarification on the terms eavestrough and gutter, although they have very different meanings. It’s best to consult an eavestrough installation expert for proper guidance.

Material

Eavestroughs (or gutters) are fitted below the eaves of your roof to channel the water that falls off your roof and away from your foundation, protecting your home from water damage. Eavestroughs come in various materials, colors, and designs, from vinyl to zinc. Aluminum is standard and offers durability, affordability, and long-lasting beauty. Seamless aluminum eavestroughs are also available, offering fewer chances of leaks.

Downspouts are enclosed tubes that take the water from the gutter channels and direct it to a splash block, rain barrel, trench or ground nicely. Without downspouts, runoff would pool at the bottom of your house and can cause erosion and structural damage.

While many homeowners are unaware of eavestrough systems, they serve a valuable purpose by helping protect your home from costly repairs and keeping your landscape beautiful. If you’re interested in installing a new eavestrough system, here are a few things to consider before making your decision:

Design

Those new to home exterior renovation need to be made aware of all the different types and designs of eavestrough. Eavestroughing is a trough that collects rainwater and melts snow, directing it away from the roof of your house using downspouts.

The eavestrough must have a precise slope to encourage water flow. Otherwise, accumulated water could damage the soffit, fascia, and shingles. Moreover, the excess water would cause attic leaks and result in structural damage to your ceiling.

The eavestrough is fitted below the eaves (the edges of your roof overhanging the walls of your house) to collect the water and direct it downhill. Hidden hangers and brackets give the trough clean and discreet structural support. Additionally, end caps ensure the trough does not overflow. Front and side elbows also redirect the track and ensure it follows the right path.

Installation

When rainwater or melted snow falls from your roof and remains there, it can leave dirty and muddy marks on your home’s walls. It can also erode the soil around your foundation. This is why an eavestrough system is essential.

Eavestroughs are fitted below your eaves to collect and redirect rainwater and melted snow away from the house. They are usually connected to downspouts that drain away the water. They are typically made of aluminum, stainless steel, copper, vinyl, or zinc. Some are curved or straight, and others have front elbows to make a turn.

Your eavestroughs should be sloped a little to encourage water flow downhill. If the slant is too slight, you may experience flooding and pooling. It is recommended that you hire a professional for proper gutter installation. They can also install accessories like leaf guards and gutter screens to protect your eavestroughs. They can also install the correct type of eavestrough for your home.

Maintenance

Eavestroughs work best when they’re kept clean. Clogged gutters will prevent melted snow from draining away. If left unattended, the accumulation of water will cause attic leaks and structural damage to the ceiling of your house.

If you decide to tackle cleaning your eavestroughs yourself, wear work gloves and use a ladder with a sturdy support system. Falling off a roof could be dangerous to your health.

If you need help to do the job yourself, hire an experienced eavestrough installation expert. They can provide professional maintenance and repair services to maintain your home’s eavestroughs. They will also ensure that your eavestroughs are adequately sloped to encourage flow. Hidden hangers and brackets can provide discreet structural support and help your eavestroughs stay in place. Front and side elbows can also direct water in the right direction.