The Best Gutter System for Your North Carolina Home

The gutter is one of the least noticed parts of the house, but it actually performs a very crucial role. Its purpose is to re-route rainwater, protecting your home’s roof, siding, windows, doors, and foundation.

When shopping for a gutter system, it is important to note that not all systems are created equal. There are specifics that you need to consider, particularly if you are living in an area where harsh weather is a normal occurrence such as North Carolina.

To help you select the best gutter system for your NC home, here are the things that I recommend that you consider.

Recommended Materials    

For regions with extreme climates, steel gutter systems are most recommended. This material comes in two types:

• Galvanized steel – This is the more common steel gutter type. Even though it will eventually rust after 20 to 25 years, its strength and durability is unquestionable, making it a popular choice for homes in regions that experience heavy rains, snow, and extreme conditions in general. Its price ranges from $8 to $10 per linear foot.

• Stainless steel – This type offers the durability and strength of galvanized steel, but it does not rust. However, it is costlier, selling for at least $20 per linear foot.

Ideal Size and Shape

When determining gutter size, you absolutely need to consider the rainfall density in your area. In areas that get a lot of rain, homeowners should have a larger gutter system installed.

The most common gutter sizes on the market are 5 inches and 6 inches, but there are also 4-inch gutters. Basing on the recommendation above, getting a 6-inch gutter would be best. Additionally, get a downspout that is at least 3 inches in diameter.

As for shape, bigger K-style gutters are a better option than a half-round or U-shaped one.

Sectional or Seamless?

Seamless gutters are gaining more popularity nowadays for a good reason. Traditionally, gutters came in sections that needed to be joined together. This leaves seams that need to be sealed every once in a while. When seamless gutters came into the scene, it eliminated the need for demanding maintenance.

You see, in areas where the weather is wrathful, the sealants that hold seamed gutter sections together tend to fail faster. It is for this same reason why a seamless gutter system will last longer than a seamed one.

Important Add-Ons

To ensure that your gutter system functions well all the time, for a long time, you may want to consider adding accessories. Barriers, screens, and other devices can enhance a system’s functionality and performance and at the same time, lengthen its service life.

For instance, gutter guards can keep leaves and other debris from blocking your gutters. They can also keep birds and other animals from nesting and living in your gutters.

Meanwhile, add-ons such as SnapLock enhance the gutter’s water-tightness as it securely attaches the gutter to the edge of the roof. With an excellent seal, it prevents seepage, rust, mold, and rot.

Indeed, a gutter system is only as good as its parts, measurements, and specifications. I hope the recommendations I gave above help you find the best system for your North Carolina home!

Author Bio:

Carl Thompson has been with the Carolinas HomePros family for five years, working closely with its marketing team. He takes care of the company’s online and offline activities and interacts with clients on a daily basis.