Rain gutters may seem like a fairly inconspicuous and inconsequential element of the exterior of a building. In reality, however, they perform a vital role in protecting the foundations of a house from erosion, and basements and the surrounding landscape from leaks, flooding and damage. The trough-like funnel is cleverly designed to catch, collect and divert rainwater away from a property to a nearby collection or discharge point, facilitating the draining process. The following facts illustrate other interesting features applicable to these components:
1. They Come in Many Shapes, Sizes rain gutter installation san jose Materials
Most residential rain gutters in San Jose are made from aluminum, steel, zinc or copper, although they may be constructed using a variety of other materials including concrete, PVC, stone, lead, cast iron and even wood. The choice of material will affect the longevity and cost of the product. Whilst open gutters are the most prevalent variety (usually either featuring a roof integral channel along the edge of the slope, or a discrete channel suspended beyond the edge), box gutters also exist concealed within roof structures and are capable of holding high volumes of water.
2. Standard Lengths and Seamless Varieties
Another variation comes in the form of standard length versus seamless gutters. The latter has the benefit of reduced joints which helps to minimize leakage and thereby increase gutter productivity. Generally, seamless gutters will be installed by a contractor whereas it is possible to fit standard length gutters autonomously.
3. Risk of Accidents
Working at heights always carries an element of risk. Carrying out rain gutter repair in San Jose is no exception, with a surprising number of people seriously injured every year falling from ladders whilst performing this task. Fortunately, the invention of gutter guards, meshes and screens reduces the risk of gutter debris and, in turn, helps to diminish the chance of ensuing accidents.
4. Must Be Inspected, Cleaned and Repaired on a Regular Basis
Rain gutters do a great job of fulfilling their purpose and collecting rainwater. Unfortunately, they are also liable to catch leaves, twigs, silt and other debris in the process. If left to accumulate, this debris can cause blockages and obstructions, which in wet weather can lead to overflows and – in dry conditions – even fire hazards. Regular inspection and cleaning counters the risk of clogging, as does the installation of effective gutter guards. Rain gutter repair in San Jose, as well as replacement every few years, may be unavoidable due to general wear and tear � even in the case of the most well preserved gutters.
5. Can Lead to Pest Infestations
Another unwanted side effect of clogged gutters is the inevitable collection therein of stagnant water. Sources of moisture and bacteria are widely acknowledged to attract unwanted insects and termites. Considering that a female mosquito only needs approximately one ounce of water to lay her eggs, the volume of stagnant water in a congested gutter creates the perfect breeding ground for these parasites, in particular.
6. An Intelligent Long-Term Investment
In terms of integral infrastructure and landscape, rain gutters are commonly considered to be a smart long-term investment in what constitutes most people�s most valuable asset � their home.
Jenny Up The Hill 