What comes to mind when you think of a roofing project? Like most homeowners, you’re probably thinking about materials, colors, energy efficiency, and weather resistance. All of these are important parts of redoing your roof. However, you might have forgotten a piece of equipment that helps ensure your new roof will last a long time: gutters.

Gutters may seem a bit cumbersome at times as they fill up with leaves, attract birds that leave empty nests behind, or break and pull away from the roof’s edge. You may have even encountered roofing contractors who advised against having gutters installed. However, properly installed gutters can go a long way toward ensuring that your new roof lasts. Here is a closer look at gutters and whether or not your new roof needs them.

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Advantages

Gutters primarily keep rainwater from bogging down your roof and damaging its foundation. With their specially designed slopes, they divert water runoff into a spout or to a safe place on the ground, keeping your roof clear of standing water.

This function also helps the ground around your home. When water flows freely off the roof, it can gradually erode the soil around your home and damage your plants or even compromise your home’s foundation over the years. Gutters divert the water where it can’t do that kind of damage.

Disadvantages

In some climates, gutters may not be necessary. For instance, in regions with very low annual rainfall, there isn’t enough water for gutters to be worth it. Houston definitely does not fit this description, however. Houston-area homes will rely heavily on gutters to divert rainwater throughout the year.

Of course, any homeowner knows about the work that gutters can require. From chasing away pests nesting in them to cleaning out leaves that clog them up, there’s always plenty to do to keep your gutters clean and working. This time commitment can be frustrating, but to keep your gutters doing their job, it’s important.

Pro Tip: Improperly installed gutters may splash the edges of your roof, promoting stains or even mold. Only trust an expert to install your gutters and keep your home in good shape.

Keep Your Gutters in Good Shape

Every now and then, take the time to clear out your gutters of any accumulated debris. This will allow water to flow freely in the next rainstorm and protect your roof from damage.

Better yet, reduce maintenance even further by having gutter guards installed to block debris while still allowing water to flow. While this metal mesh covering isn’t perfect, it’s definitely superior to open gutters. Talk to your roofing contractor about your gutter guard options.

Give Your Roof a Long Life

Gutters are more than just a cosmetic addition to your roof. The help they provide in keeping rainwater from ruining your home’s structure is invaluable. With expert installation and proper maintenance, your new gutters will be more than worth it.

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