Love Thy Gutter

Well, our gutters have gotten a workout, haven't they!? It's rare when Los Angeles gets soggy, but when it does, you find out a lot about how well your gutters are working (or how they aren't). The last storm set new records for Los Angeles, and it's not over yet.

Rain gutters are necessary to prevent water dripping or flowing off roofs for several reasons: to prevent it damaging the walls, drenching people standing below or entering the building, and to direct the water to where it will not damage the foundation of the building. In the case of a flat roof, removal of water is essential to prevent water getting in and to prevent a build-up of excessive weight. Basically, we need gutters on our homes (yes, even in relatively arid climates) to prevent getting an unintentional drenching, rot, insect infestations, and mold growth.

There are so many different types and styles of gutters. In this area, the older homes will have half-round gutters. These are great because clogging (and cleaning) is not a big deal. The design also makes them inherently strong. Anything newer than 1940 and you're going to see ogee or K-style gutters. K-style gutters are, ever since, the predominate style gutter in America. They are most commonly made from aluminum with a crown molding like ogee profile on the outside face. In more contemporary construction, you will see flat face or box gutters. Materials range from steel, to copper, titanium zinc, aluminum, and vinyl.

Gutter cleaning is an essential home maintenance task. Having clean gutters not only improves the look of your home but prevents water damage. How often should you clean your gutters? Speaking in general terms, you should make a point of cleaning your gutters at least twice a year. Depending on what sort of foliage you have near your home (such as pine trees or ficus), you may want to clean them quarterly.

With a one-story home and a roof with a low slope, I'm inclined to do it myself. I can do it from a sitting position on the roof and if I keep after it, it's easy. Most times, there are only two places that really need cleaning and that's because we have a ficus at one corner and a sweetgum tree at another. If I ignore the task for more than three months, clogs happen and water just spills over the edge of the gutter during a real rainstorm. Then the dog won't go out and chooses the best rug in the house to do her business. No bueno. Also, when I do get back to it, I'm encountering spiders in the ditritus. Also, no bueno.

The whole idea is just to get the water away from the foundation. No one wants an unintentional shower, mold, spiders, termites, or rotting wood. All things that can jeopardize the value of your house. If you need professional help, we recommend the services of two companies: RayAccess and Powell & Sons. Stay dry, West L.A.. Stay dry.