Get to Know Gutter Aprons
At High Point Gutter, we provide maintenance, installation, and expert consultation on gutter aprons across the Seattle, WA area. Safeguarding your home from water damage is a crucial part of home maintenance. With the heavy rainfall in the area, it is essential to maintain and protect your gutters from the elements. Gutter aprons are an often overlooked but crucial component to the proper function of your gutter system. From the cost benefits and gutter lifespan-increasing factors to water damage prevention, gutter aprons are an essential element of a strong and durable home.
What Are Gutter Aprons?
Sometimes called gutter flushing, gutter aprons act as a protective shield for your gutters, providing an extra layer of defense against water damage. These simple yet effective parts are designed to guide rainwater directly into the gutter, preventing it from slipping behind your gutter and causing damage to your home and siding. Installed under the shingles and over the edge of the gutters, these aprons always direct water flow away from the fascia and into the gutter system.
Discover the Benefits of Gutter Aprons
The annual rainfall in Snohomish and King Counties is much higher than the national average. This means neglecting your gutter aprons can lead to especially detrimental effects. Water can seep into the walls, causing dampness and promoting the growth of mold and moss. This not only affects the aesthetic appeal of your home but can also cause physical damage and health issues. In addition to that, gutter aprons help with:
- Preventing Water Damage – By directing water into the gutters, gutter aprons protect your home from potential water damage. They prevent water from seeping behind the gutters and rotting the fascia boards.
- Saving Money in the Long Run – Investing in flashing can save you a significant amount in potential repair costs. By preventing gutter damage, they reduce the need for repairs or replacement.
- Increasing Your Gutters’ Lifespan – Gutter aprons can extend your gutters’ lifespan by preventing water from getting behind them and causing rust or corrosion.
- Enhancing Your Home’s Aesthetic – Available in various colors and styles, flashing can add a polished look to your gutters.
- Protecting Your Landscape – By keeping water away from your home’s foundation, gutter aprons help prevent soil erosion around your house.
What’s the Difference Between Gutter Aprons and Drip Edges?
Many homeowners often confuse gutter aprons with drip edges. Though they serve similar purposes, there are distinct differences between the two. Gutter aprons are designed to direct the flow of water into the gutter. Drip edges are installed along the edge of your entire roof, protecting the roof’s wood sheeting from water damage. These are situated higher up than gutter aprons. Both components work together to protect your home from water damage, which is essential in the rainy Snohomish and King Counties in Washington.
The Gutter Apron Installation Process
Installing gutter aprons requires a bit of precision and careful planning. It begins by positioning the apron under the shingles and over the back of the gutter. Once set, it’s secured with roofing nails. The apron’s lower lip rests inside the gutter, directing water flow directly into the gutter system. The time it takes to install a gutter apron depends on the size of your home and the complexity of your roofing system. However, when performed by experienced professionals like our team at High Point Gutter, the process usually takes no more than a day.
Choose the Right Material for Flashing
Gutter aprons come in a variety of styles and colors to compliment your home’s aesthetic. You can choose the ideal style to match your home’s exterior and roof, so you don’t worry about sacrificing the clean look of your house’s exterior for gutter safety. Whether you have a metal roof or a traditional shingled one, there is a gutter apron for you. Some of the materials that can be used for gutter aprons that are both stylish and functional include:
- Aluminum
- Metal
- Vinyl
- Copper
- Steel
Tips for Maintaining Your Gutter Aprons
Gutter aprons are designed to last, providing years of enhanced performance. In addition to being long-lasting, gutter aprons also help extend the lifespan of your gutters themselves. However, they sometimes require maintenance just like any other part of your home. Even the best gutter aprons can’t perform properly if your home’s foundation settles over time. It’s crucial to check your gutters at least once per year for any signs of water damage, clogs, rust, and corrosion. For your gutter apron’s effectiveness, we recommend:
- Regular Cleaning – Keep your gutter aprons clean to ensure water can flow down them freely and prevent water from backing up.
- Seasonal Checks – Checking your gutter aprons for signs of damage or wear after autumn and winter is a good idea to ensure they’re still in good condition.
- Moss Control – Because the region is so damp, moss can be a problem. Checking for moss and moss treatment can extend the life of your gutters and flashing.
- Professional Inspection – An annual inspection by professionals can help identify potential problems with your aprons before they become a major issue.
Protect Your Home With Flashing
When it comes to preserving your home’s structure and protecting it from water damage, don’t neglect the importance of gutter aprons. They may be a small part of your gutter system but are critical in directing water away from your home. At High Point Gutter, we understand the unique needs of homes in Seattle. Whether you need new gutter aprons installed or existing ones replaced, we’ve got you covered. Reach out to us today for a free evaluation of your gutter system’s condition. Let us help you keep your home safe and dry, one gutter apron at a time.
