Three Gutter Installation Tips To Prevent Storm Water Damage During Heavy Rainfall

Residential gutters are built to withstand storms throughout the year. However, strong winds accompanied by flying debris and heavy rainfall can weaken conventional gutters and affect their performance. Therefore, if you live in an area with storms and heavy rainfall, you should be wary of storm damage to your gutter system. Here are three installation tips to prevent storm damage to your new gutters.

Select a High-Quality Guttering Material

There are three popular guttering materials: vinyl, aluminum, and steel. Vinyl is the cheapest option; however, it is not the best material for areas prone to inclement weather. It is structurally weak and can warp when hit by large pieces of debris. Vinyl gutters sag easily when hit by large amounts of water. Conversely, steel and aluminum gutters are sturdy and can withstand heavy rainfall, storms, and hail. Steel is sturdier and costlier than aluminum. However, aluminum gutters offer excellent performance and longevity at a lower cost.

Opt for Seamless Gutter Design

Conventional gutters come in sections that are joined at the seams during installation. Over time, the seams become weak points after being exposed to inclement weather. For example, if you don't clean your gutters regularly, organic matter can accumulate on them, causing them to weaken at the seams. After continued exposure to storms and heavy rain, the seams will start to leak. You can lower the risk of leaks by investing in seamless gutters.

Seamless gutters feature a single piece of material extending from one end of the roofline to the other. There are no sections or seams, which lowers the risk of leaks. The absence of seams reduces the risk of debris getting trapped between the gutters. This prevents water from pooling on your gutters and wearing out the material. Seamless gutters can last a long period of time when maintained properly through annual cleanings.

Install Gutter Guards

Large debris from strong winds can get stuck in your gutters and cause blockages. When it rains, the debris prevents water from flowing smoothly into the downspouts. The weight of the debris and standing water can cause the gutters to sag or detach from the eaves or fascia. You can keep debris out of your gutters by installing gutter guards. Gutter guards are covers or screens that allow rainwater to flow into the gutter while keeping out debris and pests. The screens prevent gutter blockages and eliminate the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance.

Proper installation is crucial to protecting your gutters during inclement weather. You must fasten the gutters correctly to prevent them from sagging when hit by wind and heavy rain. Therefore, hire a contractor for seamless gutter installation services.