How Much Water Hits Your Roof Every Year?
To calculate how much water slides off your roof every year, convert the area of your roof to inches. Then multiply the dimensions by the rainfall (Baltimore County gets around 40 inches of rain per year). Then divide by 231 to get the number of gallons. That’s a lot of water. Moving this amount of water away from your home requires maintenance and, at times, gutter replacement. To protect your home, EC Roofing recommends a quality rain gutter system featuring the best types of gutters.
A properly installed gutter system is a quintessential feature of every modern home. When functioning properly, gutters divert water away from your home’s foundation, siding, windows, and walkways. If you’ve found you yourself spending money on dehumidifiers, fans, and chemical desiccants, your gutter system might be at fault. Even if you plan to install gutters yourself, it’s best to contact a professional gutter company to get a professional opinion.
Without a functional gutter system, your home is left at risk of:
- Soil erosion
- Mold and rot
- Staining
- Flooding
What are the best gutters for your Maryland home? Gutters come in two main profiles (shapes) including:
Half-Round Gutters
Half-round gutters became popular in the early 1900s and can bring character to your home. They are typically bigger than ogee (K-style) channels because they hold less water. Half-round gutter channels are trough-shaped with a rounded bottom (and a width of 5 to 6 inches). This gutter system has a Victorian look and is commonly seen on older brick homes and bungalows. They are often made of steel, copper, zinc, and aluminum. Half-round gutters hold less water than modern profiles, but many people prefer them because they add European character to a home. A few historic homes in Baltimore County have really gorgeous half-round gutters.
K-style Gutters
K-style gutters were invented in the 1940s and have become the most common gutter system in the U.S. K-style gutters have a straight “back” (the part closest to your house), a curvy front (the part farthest from your house), and a flat bottom. K-style gutters offer functional advantages over their competition because they move the most water away from the home. Their high capacity and affordable price make them the go-to choice for many homebuyers. K-style gutters are commonly made of vinyl and aluminum. If you are considering new gutters for your home, our experts would be happy to take a look at your current setup and give you an estimate.
Gutter Materials
Choosing the right materials for your gutter system should involve a conversation with an expert. When considering new gutters, you will need to address both structural and aesthetic concerns for your home. While you may have a particular style in mind, our Maryland climate can pose specific challenges. Manufacturers use the following materials to make gutters:
Vinyl
Vinyl gutters are the cheapest and quickest option. They come in a variety of colors, but most people prefer white or brown because these colors are less likely to fade in the sun. Vinyl gutters will crack and leak after around 15 years.
Aluminum
Aluminum gutters with normal wear and tear will last a lifetime. They are generally inexpensive, and customizable, but they can be easily dented and damaged.
Copper
Copper gutters require less maintenance than other half-round styles, but they are more expensive to install. Copper will eventually fade and lose its shine, but it will last a lifetime if properly maintained.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel gutters are less expensive than stainless steel, but they are difficult to inspect and install. They last between 15 and 20 years.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel gutters are rust-resistant, durable, and lasts approximately 50 years. They tend to be more expensive and incur higher installation costs.
Zinc
Zinc gutters develop a patina to protect the material from corroding. They are durable, and lasts approximately 50 years. They tend to be more expensive and require additional installation efforts.
Keeping your home safe and dry starts with directing water away from your home. Leaking gutters can lead to expensive water damage in and around your home. If you have recently purchased a home and noticed problems with drainage, this may be due to aging or improperly installed gutter system. The best types of gutters can reduce drainage issues and reduce the frequency of roofing services.
If you have questions about installing new gutters, contact us online or give us a call at 410-455-9880 and we’d be happy to discuss your concerns, questions, and options.
