About Gutters And Downspouts
During former eras, before they fully appreciated the vital importance of basement and foundation moisture control, home builders sometimes treated gutter and downspout systems mainly as roofing enhancements. Some vintage homes in this area did not originally include this technology, for example. Yet over the course of time, more people have come to recognize the waterproofing role of well-designed rooftop gutters and downspouts.
Essentially, a rooftop gutter system supplies a series of hollow pipes and downspouts running beside or directly underneath the edge of the eaves to collect rainwater and melting snow from the roof. Gutters channel this flow into downspouts which typically send it onto “splash blocks” pointing away from the structure. Without correctly positioned gutters and downspout, large quantities of water might otherwise flow across the eaves and soak into the ground close to the perimeter of a home or a business. After heavy rains, the earth in these locations might easily become waterlogged. Significant downpours might even allow water to seep into the foundation or the basement. Gutter and downspout systems perform an important waterproofing function by helping to reduce the incidence of water saturation in the ground surrounding foundations and basements.
Other Important Benefits
Of course, these systems also furnish convenience for residents. By collecting runoff, the gutter prevents dirty rainwater from cascading off a roof to splatter onto windows, doors, decks, and the sides of buildings. Maintaining a cleaner building exterior proves much easier, as a result. People entering or leaving the premises also appreciate the convenience a gutter system provides. They avoid discomfort caused by rooftop runoff soaking passers-by and creating muddy conditions outside doorways.
Effective rooftop gutters and downspouts contribute to the satisfaction people obtain from their homes and businesses. Some roofers routinely install these systems for customers as an available service. To optimize the benefits obtained from a comprehensive gutter and downspout network, it remains important to perform the installation correctly. The downspouts should direct the runoff well away from the perimeter of a home or commercial building.
The Importance of Regular Maintenance
In order to perform effective passive basement moisture control, a gutter and downspout system requires periodic maintenance. Property owners must ensure leaves, dust, twigs, and other windblown debris don’t obstruct the gutters or downspouts. Over time, in the absence of regular cleaning, clogs impede the system’s waterproofing effectiveness.
Currently, many handyman services clean out gutters and downspouts for property owners who choose to outsource this task. Whether someone performs DIY gutter maintenance or relies upon a cleaning service, most experts recommend checking (and cleaning) the system on a regular basis. Clearing away leaves and other material helps ensure water flows through gutters without disruption. Additionally, allowing a gutter to remain clogged for a long period of time sometimes reduces the useful lifespan of the system. Even waterproof metals may develop corrosion if standing water remains in a gutter pipe over an extended period. Pinpoint cracks and rust damage these components.
Treating a Gutter System as a Passive Basement Moisture Control Tool
An experienced waterproofing technician can help confirm the effectiveness of a gutter and downspout system in promoting a drier basement. Over time, wind damage or heavy snows sometimes loosens or damages parts of a gutter and downspout system. If the property owner fails to fix these problems, the system may stop directing rooftop runoff away from the home or business effectively. (2) If you hold any concern your home’s gutters and downspouts no longer function correctly, consider obtaining an inspection.
Further Information about How To Enhance Waterproofing
To schedule a waterproofing inspection, contact Drainage & Waterproofing Solutions, LLC. We serve the Greater Raleigh Area, as well as Southern Pines, Fayetteville, and outlying communities. We specialize in helping customers develop comprehensive waterproofing plans in order to maintain drier, more comfortable premises. Call us at 919-235-5219 or 919-508-7503 to request experienced waterproofing services!
Helpful Resources:
1. https://www.drainagenwaterproofing.com/basement-moisture-control/
2. http://buildipedia.com/at-home/landscaping/maintenance-tips-gutters-and-downspouts