How to Tell if Your Gutters and Downspouts are Installed Correctly

Gutters and downspouts are essential components of a home's drainage system, and it is important to make sure they are installed correctly. The gutters should be installed at a slight angle or inclination so that water can flow smoothly into the downspouts and drains. The pitch should be slightly sloped, as too much could cause water to stagnate or spill instead of flowing into the downspouts. The location of the downspouts is also important, as insufficient or incorrect placement can lead to standing water, soil erosion, insect infestations, and damage to the lining or foundation.

Home inspectors are not required to measure the slope of gutters, but there are some signs that indicate if they are not tilted correctly. If the downspout is on the left side, it must also be the lowest point of the gutter. The end opposite the downspout must be the highest point for water to flow properly. If water overflows directly onto the end cover of the gutter, this is a sign that it is not tilted correctly.

Gutters suspended in the fascia are more robust and safer, but if the fascia does not exist or is covered with crown-shaped moldings, ceiling mounting may be the only option. Seamless gutters are custom manufactured for each home and can help avoid problems with standing water or overflow during heavy rains. The size of gutters needed depends on factors such as roof size, slope, climate, and rainfall. If hangers are too far apart, gutters can sink after heavy rain or snow and detach from the roof due to lack of support.

External elements such as weather conditions, fallen tree branches, or roof chemicals can reduce the life of gutters and downspouts. Gutterworks professionals can assess the size of gutters your home needs based on technical data such as the inclination of the roof and surface area. It is important to make sure your gutters and downspouts are installed correctly in order to avoid costly problems in the future.