Articles and tips about Gutters, of interest to homeowners.
This information can clarify and help answer some questions about cleaning gutters.
Q: I am trying to replace pieces of a gutter at my home. My problem is finding the style that is already on the house. The name imprinted is Rainmaster, which was sold by the now defunct Home Quarters. Home Depot has taken over this area and does not carry a compatible product. Can you help me track an address for Rainmaster or offer a suggestion, short of replacing my entire system?
Q: I recently replaced my roof and reapplied stucco on my home. During this procedure the gutters were removed. I would prefer to do it myself if possible, but how do I begin?
Gutters are critical components of a house because they protect both the roof and the foundations from moisture damage by channeling water from the roof out away from the house.
Removing heavy snow from your roof can prevent costly water damage to your roof, walls and ceilings. Water leaks from ice and snow are caused by interior heat from the house. Water from this melting is trapped and creates an ice dam on the roof, gutters and downspouts. The water then takes the path of least resistance and under the roof system, or sideways and through flashings which were not designed for ponded water. When this happens, interior water damage can occur. But unless you can do it safely, don't jeopardize your well-being by trying to remove it yourself. Leave it to a professional.
When it starts raining outside an incredible amount of water beats down on the roof of your house. Your roof does the job of protecting your house and everything in it from the rain. Most roofs are sloped so water can run off and prevent heavy collections of rainwater from gathering in pockets all over the roof. If this were to happen the roof could become severely damaged and eventually holes will form where the rainwater once was (it would now be underneath the hole that has formed).