Your home’s eavestrough system plays a critical role in protecting your home from unnecessary moisture. It is designed to drain water away from your home, preventing foundation damage.
Even though it’s easy to give little thought to your eavestrough once it’s in place, there are actually several factors to consider when you have to install a new one.
Material
You’ll find an eavestrough in a wide variety of materials. Each comes with its own unique attributes, as well as its own price tag. They all serve the same basic purpose, so the choice of materials typically comes down to a matter of preference.
| Aluminum | Widely used and highly affordable. Resists corrosion and is a versatile product. |
| Steel | Expensive, yet durable. Can come coated in zinc or aluminum to prevent rust. |
| Copper | Beautiful and upscale, but come at a high price tag. |
| Vinyl | Gaining popularity because it is cost-effective. However, they break down easily. |
- Aluminum: One of the greatest benefits of aluminum is that it is rustproof. It stands up well to heavy rain and snow, so it is a great choice for practical homeowners. The aluminum option is easy to blend with your home and comes at an economical price.
- Steel: Steel varieties are incredibly durable. There may be a bit of sticker shock when considering steel, but on the positive side, they last longer than other materials. If you plan to live in your home for several years, they are worth the investment.
- Copper: While copper may be expensive, it is one of the most attractive eavestrough materials on the market. The oxidation process that turns copper green does not weaken the material in the same way rust does. Instead, copper stays strong and reliable. If you are looking to boost curb appeal, copper is the way to go.
- Vinyl: Vinyl is the most affordable option available to homeowners. It is also convenient and easy to install. Just be aware that if you are considering vinyl, it breaks down faster than most other materials. This means you run the risk of repairs or replacement sooner.
Eavestrough Protection
Your eavestrough can get clogged with leaves and other debris easily, making them less effective. By adding protective accessories, you can keep debris out while making sure water is draining away from your home.
- Mesh Screen: This low-cost wrap-around screen allows water to run through while blocking leaves, pine needles, and other debris. Even though it is attractive with its low cost, it is the least user-friendly method. It’s difficult to install and doesn’t hold up well to the weight of ice and snow.
- Leaf Guard: Leaf guards come in many varieties, but most are flat shields with large holes designed to prevent large debris from entering your gutters. They are easy to clean but ineffective against small debris, such as conifers and asphalt granules from the roof.
- Continuous Hanger System: A continuous hanger system works similarly to a leaf guard, but takes it a step further. Under a traditional installation, water can seep through seams in your eavestrough. This can lead to rot in the wood underneath, which is expensive to replace. The continuous hanger system not only blocks debris but also prevents water from damaging your home.
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Eavestrough Wear and Tear
It’s important to pay attention to the condition of your eavestrough. Over time, they can become damaged from severe weather or simply from being exposed to the changing seasons.
Whether you discover damage on your guttering or downspouts, consider an eavestrough repair in Oshawa. If you notice anything sagging, pulling away, or any missing or loose fasteners, make sure you address these issues before they get out of hand.
A well-maintained eavestrough will ensure it continues working at its best. Twice a year, you should clear them of dirt and debris to prevent clogs and weight build-up. When you clean them, you should also perform a visual inspection to see if there are any cracks, missing pieces, or alignment issues that need to be addressed.
Whatever eavestrough you choose, proper maintenance will ensure they will stay at their top performance for years to come.
