Do you really need rain gutters to divert water from your home to avoid damage? Not necessarily.
Rain gutters can effectively divert rainwater away from a building’s foundation, but they are not the only option. There are several other ways to divert rainwater without gutters, such as using ground-level landscaping features.
Ground-level landscaping features that can help divert water include
- French drains – French drains are underground drainage systems consisting of a trench filled with gravel or crushed stone that directs water away from a building’s foundation.
- Swales – A swale is a shallow trench or ditch dug into the landscape to direct water runoff. Swales are often filled with gravel or crushed stone and are often planted with native grasses or other plants that can tolerate wet conditions.
- Dry wells – A dry well is a small, underground structure that captures and stores excess rainwater. The water is then slowly released into the ground, allowing it to be absorbed by the soil.
- Permeable pavers – Permeable pavers are a type of pavement that allows water to seep through it and reach the ground below. They are often used in driveways, patios, and walkways to reduce runoff and improve water quality.
- Retention pond – A retention pond is manufactured to hold excess water during heavy rains and slowly release it into the ground or nearby water bodies.
These are some examples of ground-level landscaping features that can divert rainwater away from a building’s foundation. But, of course, the choice of the best technique will depend on the specific context, such as the climate, the type of soil, the property size, and the homeowner’s aesthetic choices.
Other non-rain gutter-related things you can use as a rainwater diverter include
A pitched roof directs rainwater to a specific location, like a corner of the house, where you can install a drainage pipe to channel the water away from the building. You can also install a rainwater harvesting system that captures, stores, and reuses rainwater, thus reducing the load on the gutters.
Another option is to install a rain barrel or cistern to collect and store rainwater for later use. A sloping or pitched roof can help divert rainwater away from a building’s foundation.
These are all fine and dandy ways to implement the diversion of water from your home, but truth be told, rain gutters are simply the superior choice for protecting your home from rainwater damage.
Why, you may ask? Well, here are the answers
Rain gutters are a popular choice for diverting rainwater from a building’s foundation because they are an efficient and effective way to channel rainwater away from the building.
Some of the benefits of using rain gutters include the following:
- Protection of the Foundation – Rain gutters prevent water from seeping into the foundation of a building, which can cause damage to the structure and lead to costly repairs.
- Protection of the Landscaping – Rain gutters prevent water from pooling around the foundation of a building, which can damage landscaping and lead to erosion.
- Easy to Install – Rain gutters are relatively easy to install and can be done by a professional or a DIY enthusiast.
- Cost-Effective – Rain gutters are an affordable option for diverting rainwater from a building, especially compared to more complex and expensive landscaping or underground drainage options.
- Aesthetically Pleasing – Rain gutters come in various colors and styles and can be chosen to complement the architectural style of the building.
- Rainwater Harvesting – Rain gutters can be connected to a rainwater harvesting system, which captures, stores, and reuses rainwater for irrigation or other uses.
While it is generally recommended to leave the installation of rain gutters to a professional, some homeowners may choose to install them on their own. However, it is essential to understand that installing rain gutters can be difficult and time-consuming, requiring specific knowledge and skills.
Here are some common mistakes that homeowners make when installing their own rain gutters
- Improper Measurement – Not measuring the house’s eaves properly can cause the gutters to sag or pull away from the home, leading to leaks and water damage.
- Hangers, Alignment, and Sealant – The improper use of any of these components can lead to overflow, backup, and water damage.
- Not Providing Enough Slope – Without the proper slope, the water will not flow towards the downspout.
- Not Installing Guards or Leaf Guards – This can lead to gutters clogged with leaves and debris.
- Not Checking for Leaks – Not checking for leaks after installation can evolve into extensive damage to the building and the foundation.
- Not Installing Gutters at the Proper Height – Not installing the gutters at the right height can cause water to overflow or back up.
If you’re not confident in your ability to install the gutters properly, it is best to hire a professional.
Here are several reasons why
Proper Installation
Rain gutter installation requires specific knowledge and skills to ensure that the gutters are properly installed and function correctly. A professional will be able to properly size, install and adjust the gutter system for the specific needs of the building.
Avoiding Leaks and Clogs
Rain gutters that are not correctly installed can lead to leaks and clogs, which can cause water damage to the building and its foundation. Again, a professional will be able to identify and address potential issues before they become a problem.
Properly Securing the Gutters
Rain gutters need to be appropriately secured to the building to ensure that they can withstand heavy rain and strong winds. A professional will know the appropriate methods and materials to secure the gutters and ensure they remain in place.
Measuring and Cutting the Gutters
Professional gutter installers will have the proper tools and equipment to measure and cut gutters to the correct size and shape. This is important to ensure that the gutters fit correctly and don’t have any leaks.
Warranty and Insurance
Most professional gutter installation companies will provide warranty and insurance on their work, giving you peace of mind that your gutter will be fixed if something goes wrong.
Safety
Installing rain gutters can be dangerous and requires working at heights. A professional will have the necessary safety equipment and training to safely install the gutters, reducing the risk of injury to themselves or others.
M & M Gutters & Exteriors
Professional gutter installation is the best way to ensure that your rain gutters are properly installed, function correctly, and can effectively divert water away from your building, which is precisely what M & M Gutters & Exteriors will do. Contact us, and let our professionals install your gutters properly to protect your home from water damage today!