We hardly think about guttering until there is a problem such as overflowing, sagging, or leaking guttering. However, selecting an appropriate guttering system is a home improvement choice that helps protect other parts of the house. This includes the render, brickwork, foundations, and loft conversions, protecting them from years of water damage.
Some initial considerations for a homeowner include the materials used. In the UK, uPVC guttering is the most popular option due to its affordability, ease of installation, and low upkeep. It is resistant to rusting and rotting and the latest uPVC technologies include UV stabilizers to prevent fading and cracking. Unlike uPVC, cast iron guttering is more suitable for period properties and conservation areas that require the protection of the original character. However, it is more expensive to install and requires more maintenance due to its need for repainting. Aluminium is a middle-of-the-road option – while it is more costly than uPVC, it is lighter and requires less maintenance – making it an ideal choice for larger or custom-designed homes.
The type of profile and size are equally as important as the material. Standard half-round guttering is suitable for most semi-detached and terraced homes. However, larger roofs, loft conversions, and homes in regions with heavy rainfall tend to require deeper and higher-capacity profiles such as ogee or box guttering. One of the most frequent causes of gutter overflow is undersized guttering, which is why it is important to have a professional determine the roof’s drainage area, rather than just replacing the guttering with something that is the same size.
Consider placement and number of downpipes. Insufficient downpipes or poorly positioned downpipes can cause sections of gutters to be overloaded even when the gutter profile has capacity. When gutters are replaced, it is also a good chance to assess whether the downpipes are sized and positioned adequately to cater for the full roof catchment area, especially when an extension or loft conversion has altered the roofline since the original system was installed.
The front of the house is the first impression for visitors and the finish/colour combination of uPVC offers incredible choices. With how advanced uPVC is, their woodgrain finishes can imitate real wood, and uPVC options can also imitate cast iron. These options also come with the bonus of minimal maintenance! When choosing guttering, fascias, soffits, and downpipes, choosing a matching set can offer a great look. When a system is mismatched, or does not fit the overall look of the house, it can make even the best-kept homes look outdated.
The correct installation is as important as the products chosen. For example, Guttering needs the right fall to direct water towards the downpipes. Adequate sealing at joints will prevent leaks, while appropriate securing will fix the system to withstand the weight of water without sagging during heavy rainfall. A system that is poorly installed, even if made of good quality materials, will fail to perform and can lead to water ingress at roofline, fascia, and soffit level.
If homeowners are considering replacing all of their gutters, it is a good idea to get a professional to survey their property and figure out the best system suited to the practical requirements of the roof and the aesthetics of the house. This can save them from the continual headaches caused by the system overflowing, leaking, and the repairs that will follow.