A roof's job is to keep water out of the building. But once the water is off the roof, where does it go? Without a properly functioning gutter system, that water will fall directly off the edge, eroding foundation soil, damaging landscaping, and splashing back up to rot your building's wood fascia and siding. Gutters are an essential extension of your roof's drainage system.
1. Preventing Fascia Wood Rot
Gutters are mounted directly to the fascia board. If gutters become clogged with leaves, pine needles, or silt, water will overflow and back up under the roof's drip edge. This standing water rot the wooden fascia board and roof deck, causing structural softening and allowing water to enter the soffits and attic space.
2. Diverting Water from the Foundation
Water pooling around your foundation can cause soil settling, leading to cracked walls, stuck doors, and structural foundation failure. Downspouts are designed to discharge water at least five to ten feet away from the building's slab, ensuring the surrounding soil remains stable.
3. Eliminating Stucco and Siding Stains
When water pours off a roof edge without gutters, it carries dirt, asphalt granules, and organic matter with it. As this mixture hits the ground and splashes back against your stucco walls, it leaves behind dark, unsightly stains and promotes mold and mildew growth. Installing gutters protects your exterior paint and siding.
4. Preventative Gutter Cleaning
Clean your gutters at least twice a year—ideally before the spring rains and after the autumn leaf fall. Regular cleanings prevent blockages, rust, and heavy water pooling that can pull the gutters off their hangers.