The Seattle area averages 44 inches of rain per year. This is above the national average of 38 inches. With so much rain landing on your roof, it’s important to install gutters to divert the water. If you’re a Washington homeowner unsure if it’s worth paying for gutter installation, learn how this simple investment can help protect your foundation and several other benefits of installing gutters.

The Purpose of Rain Gutters

Gutters are designed to catch rainwater and snowmelt as it runs off the roof. The slight slope built into the gutter system helps runoff flow toward a downspout, which deposits water at least 6 feet from the foundation. Without gutters, water would simply pour off the eaves or run down the side of the building, potentially causing structural harm in the process.

Do Gutters Prevent Foundation Damage?

You may wonder why it matters where the rain goes when it runs off your roof. The reality is that water is highly destructive to building foundations. Over-saturated soil pressing against the foundation wall can cause cracks to form, allowing water to enter. If the water freezes while sitting in a foundation crack, the opening will slowly grow, causing more and more trouble as time goes by. Gutters are a simple way to guide rainwater away from the foundation, stopping this destructive process before it starts.

Other Problems Gutters Can Help Prevent

• Water damage and mold growth: Foundation cracks can lead to a problem called “wet basement,” where the air feels damp and musty all the time. If the problem progresses, you could end up with a full-fledged flood and mold damage. The key to preventing this scenario is to install gutters.
• Soil erosion: Homes without gutters tend to have eroded soil near the foundation. This is unsightly and increases the risk of future flood damage by encouraging runoff to flow toward your home instead of away from it. Protect your landscape by installing gutters and building the soil back up around your home.
• Siding damage: A lack of gutters could lead to water stains, peeling paint, or wood rot, depending on the siding material. Gutter installation prevents this by directing water away from the house.

The Importance of Gutter Cleaning

Gutters require frequent inspections and cleaning to remove debris and prevent clogs that could cause the gutters to overflow, rendering them pointless. You can perform this cleaning yourself or hire a licensed company to ensure a job well done. You can also install gutters with a leaf guard system to minimize cleaning requirements.

If you’re building a new home or looking to buy a property in Snohomish or King County with no existing gutters, reach out to High Point Gutter. We install seamless aluminum gutters in different sizes and styles to meet your needs. Our onsite extrusion process means your gutters are custom-made to fit your home’s precise measurements. For your peace of mind, every installation comes with a 10-year install warranty and 20-year manufacturer warranty. Call us today at (425) 449-6622 or contact us online to request a gutter installation estimate.