A properly designed gutter system protects siding, foundations, and landscaping while giving the home a finished look.
A properly installed gutter system channels rainwater away from the roof and foundation, helping to reduce long-term structural damage. Drazen Zigic/Shutterstock
Tired of ducking under a waterfall at the door every time it rains?
Gutters can also help extend a roof’s lifespan by channeling water away quickly; reducing exterior mold and mildew that thrive in damp environments; and giving the home an elegant, finished look. They’re available in a variety of colors and styles, including elegant copper that develops a posh patina. Best of all, they’re an attainable DIY install for anyone with patience, a moderate level of skill, and ideally a friend or two.
The Educated Consumer
Gutters come with a list of cons as well as pros. They require regular cleaning and maintenance, because clogged gutters can be worse than none at all, particularly if they force water back toward the fascia and roof.
Sandy Lindsey
Author
Sandy Lindsey is an award-winning writer who covers home, gardening, DIY projects, pets, and boating. She has two books with McGraw-Hill.
