Mind your gutters

Gutters play an important part in protecting homes from water damage, but they cannot do it alone. From time to time, they need a little help from homeowners, too. Here are some pointers:

A clean sweep: Gutters should be cleaned at the beginning of fall and again during spring. Homes that are in wooded areas may need more frequent cleanings.

On guard: Keeping gutters clean can be a major hassle, but gutter guards can help. These additions fit over the gutter and prevent it from becoming filled with debris. Gutter guards will not totally eliminate the need for future cleaning so choose a system that will allow easy access when cleaning is necessary.

Repair or replace: Although some gutter systems can last for more than 20 years, no gutter will last forever. Gutters that are damaged, rusting or pulling away from the house may need to be replaced. But minor repairs such as leaky seams can often be repaired with caulk or other materials.

Sectional vs. seamless: If replacing gutters, there are two options: sectional and seamless. Sectional gutters come in pieces that are joined together by connectors. Sectional gutters are prone to leaks around the seams of the connectors which is a major drawback. Seamless gutters are continuous and only have seams at end caps, downspouts and corners. This greatly reduces the likelihood of leaks. Seamless gutters must be made to size and require a professional with special equipment.

Gutter materials: The most common gutter materials are steel, aluminum and vinyl. Steel gutters were once very popular but have fallen out of favor because of their tendency to rust. Vinyl is cheaper but can warp in warmer climates and is prone to leaks around the gutter's seams. Aluminum gutters are the most popular because they can be seamless, are easy to install and are extremely durable.

Through thick and thin: Gutters are sized based on the gauge or thickness, of the material and are typically available in gauges of 0.019 to 0.032. Gutters that are subjected to harsh conditions such as ice and snow may need to be a thicker gauge than most. Although the thinnest material is cheaper, be careful because it isn't as durable and may lose its shape over time.

Down and out: Downspouts play a crucial role in directing water away from the home's foundation. If they are too small or become clogged, water can back up in the gutter, causing a variety of problems. Ensure downspouts channel water at least 2 feet away from the home, and install downspout extenders if water needs to be directed even farther away.

Price tag: The cost of new gutters can vary widely and will depend on the size of the house, the type of materials used and the thickness of the gutters. Vinyl gutters can cost as little as $3 per foot, while aluminum could cost as much as $9 a foot. Owners could spend between $1,000 and $2,000 to install gutters on an average-sized home.