Gutters are an essential part of your home’s exterior system. They protect your foundation, roof, and landscaping from water damage, keeping your property safe and sound. However, if not installed correctly, gutters can cause more harm than good. Faulty installation can lead to leaks, water buildup, and even structural damage to your property. That’s why it’s crucial to choose a professional gutter company with years of experience and a solid reputation.
Tiger Gutters is one such company, providing high-quality gutter services to homeowners in Memphis, TN, and the surrounding areas. Our team has years of experience and extensive knowledge in gutter installation, maintenance, and repair. We understand the common mistakes that many homeowners make during the installation process and are here to share our expert tips on how to avoid them.
In this blog post, we will discuss the most common mistakes to avoid during gutter installation and how to ensure your gutters are installed correctly. So, let’s get started.
Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong Gutter Type
Choosing the right gutter type is critical to ensure proper drainage and functionality. However, many homeowners make the mistake of choosing the wrong type of gutter for their property. Some common gutter types include:
K-style gutters: These are the most common gutter type, featuring a flat back and bottom and a decorative front. They are suitable for homes with sloping roofs and can handle moderate to heavy rainfall.
Half-round gutters: These gutters have a rounded shape and are ideal for homes with a traditional or historic style. They are not as common as K-style gutters but can still be an excellent choice for your home.
Box gutters: These gutters are typically installed on commercial buildings and have a rectangular shape. They are not suitable for residential properties.
When choosing the right gutter type, consider your roof type, the climate in your area, and the amount of rainfall your area receives. Consult with a professional gutter company like Tiger Gutters to determine the best gutter type for your property.
Mistake #2: Improper Gutter Pitch
The gutter pitch refers to the slope of the gutter system, which ensures water flows towards the downspouts and away from your property’s foundation. Improper gutter pitch is a common mistake that many homeowners make during installation.
If the gutter pitch is too steep, water will flow too quickly, leading to overflow and potential water damage. If the gutter pitch is too shallow, water will not flow correctly, leading to water buildup and potential foundation damage.
It’s crucial to ensure proper gutter pitch during installation to prevent these issues. A professional gutter company like Tiger Gutters can determine the correct pitch based on your roof’s size, shape, and slope.
Mistake #3: Poor Downspout Placement
The downspouts are an essential part of the gutter system, as they direct water away from your property’s foundation. Poor downspout placement is another common mistake homeowners make during installation.
The downspouts should be strategically placed to ensure proper water flow and drainage. They should be placed in areas with the most water accumulation, such as at the corners of your home, near your foundation, and where water tends to pool.
Improper downspout placement can lead to water buildup, which can cause foundation damage, erosion, and even flooding. Make sure to consult with a professional gutter company like Tiger Gutters to determine the best downspout placement for your property.
Mistake #4: Using the Wrong Gutter Size
Choosing the right gutter size is just as important as choosing the right type of gutter. Many homeowners make the mistake of using gutters that are too small for their property’s needs.