The Importance of Gutters

Anyone who wants to sell their home should get their mind in the gutter because if a house’s gutter system isn’t working properly, it can lead to many problems.

Gutters serve an extremely important purpose—directing water away from your house. Without gutters, rainwater can damage roofs, enter homes, flood basements, destroy gardens and even damage the house’s foundation.

Savvy homebuyers will know if there are issues with your gutters if, for example, they see water pooled near your home. Taking some time to make sure your gutters are in tip-top condition is the right thing to do.

Keep them clean. This is a very simple process that will keep your gutters flowing. All you have to do is climb a ladder and use your hands to remove leaves, twigs, sticks and other debris from your gutter. Safety is the biggest concern, so be sure someone is holding the ladder, and wear work gloves to protect your hands. Also, be sure the downspout openings are clear.

Make sure they’re secure. Gutters that are separated from your home can lead to all sorts of problems, so do an inspection for loose areas. If you do see troublesome spots, tighten the hangers. Be sure to check downspout brackets. If you don’t want to make these repairs yourself, call a professional.

Get on guard. Gutter guards can be effective and are a great selling point because the new owner won’t have to clean the gutters. They prevent large items like leaves from entering the gutters while still allowing water to flow. However, not all models are full proof. Be sure to do your homework before investing in them.

Is it time for new gutters? This is a drastic and costly process, but if your gutters are beyond repair, it may be worth it to invest in a new system. There are many options, including the material the gutters are made of and whether to buy seamless or less expensive sectional gutters. And if you do go this route, go all-in and choose a color and style that complements your house and enhances its physical appeal.