Do I Really Need Gutters?
We get asked this question on home inspections all the time. The simple answer is… yes you really should have gutters.
You would think with all the flooding rains we get in Central Florida, that gutters would be commonplace. However, a huge portion of homes still have little to no guttering. The fact that Florida has a sandy soil and most moisture is absorbed quickly without homeowners seeing the ponding may be the reason for this. Or, it may be that builders are trying to save on costs and decided that gutters are not important. Whatever the case may be, we always recommend having gutters installed and maintained at all lower eaves of your home.
Let’s say you have good grading and plenty of slope around your home. Should you still have gutters?
As with any other system in your home, the real problems are usually the ones you CAN’T see. In Florida we have a very sandy soil. This allows it to absorb a lot of moisture. However, it is also very easily eroded. Erosion underneath your home can cause all kinds of costly issues from foundation settlement to structural failure. Properly installed gutters with downspouts and extensions will carry the bulk of the storm water away from the home and prevent long term erosion.
Another benefit to gutters is, because the storm water is being carried away to downspouts, it keeps everyone from getting rainwater dumped directly off the roof onto them as they walk in the home. It also keeps flower beds and shrubs from getting washed out.
One thing that people don’t typically think about when it comes to gutters is that without them, rainwater will tend to run down the side of the fascia (eaves) and also down the side of the home. This in turn can cause moisture intrusion into the wall, which can lead to rot and mold. Think of it like a cup that has a loose lid. When the cup is tipped, the liquid runs down the side and gets everywhere!
We all know that water follows the path of least resistance. Properly installed gutters with downspouts and extensions provide a perfect path for storm water and ultimately will help maintain your home for years to come!
FAQs
The simple answer is… yes your home unquestionably needs rain gutters.
Are gutters required by code in Florida? ›
Gutters with downspouts are required on all buildings with eaves of less than 6 inches (152 mm) horizontal projection except for gable end rakes or on a roof above another roof.
Do you need gutter guards in Florida? ›
Gutter guards are a smart upgrade for any Florida home. The benefits of gutter guard installation include: Protection against water damage: When water spills over the edge of your gutters and onto your siding and foundation, you risk leaks, mold, landscaping erosion, and structural deterioration.
What kind of gutters are best in Florida? ›
When selecting gutters and downspouts for Florida's climate, opt for durable materials that can withstand the region's high humidity, intense sunlight, and occasional severe storms. Aluminum gutters are a popular choice due to their lightweight nature, resistance to corrosion, and affordability.
What is the new law in Florida about roofs? ›
However, on May 26, 2022, SB 4-D took effect, which eliminated Florida's 25% Roof Replacement Rule. Now, so long as the rest of the roof is in compliance with the 2007 Florida Building Code, or any subsequent versions of that code, then a full roof replacement is not required.
Why are there no rain gutters in Florida? ›
As a coastal state, Florida is vulnerable to hurricanes. Gutters can be damaged easily by high winds and flying debris during storms. 5. Finally, installing gutters in the state can be costly due to the labor and materials required for installation.
Is there a downside to gutter guards? ›
While gutter guards can be a valuable investment for many homeowners, there are a few downsides to them that include the need for periodic maintenance and cleaning, not eliminating all debris in your gutters, and the cost considerations.
Is it better to have gutter guards or not? ›
Gutter guards offer a range of benefits, from keeping out pests to preventing foundation damage. The main benefits are the protection they offer your home's drainage system and the time and hassle they save you on future gutter cleanings.
How do you know if you need gutter guards? ›
When you have constant overflows, it could cause various water damage to your home and even compromise its structural integrity. Water spots and discoloration are sure signs that you need to install gutter guards to protect your seamless gutters.
What are some signs that your gutters need to be replaced? ›
12 Signs You Need to Replace your Gutters
- Gaps. Your gutters should not have large gaps. ...
- Cracks or fractures. If there is a visible cut in your gutters, then water will leak out onto your house or fascia. ...
- Standing water. ...
- Sagging gutters. ...
- Peeling paint. ...
- Rust. ...
- Water damage marks. ...
- Mold.
If you notice any flow disruptions, a Ferret camera, can easily traverse your downspout to locate any blockages. Don't worry if the downspouts are wet—the Ferret camera can power through thanks to its IP67 rating (water and dust-proof).
How often should you check your gutters? ›
If you have pine trees on your property, you will need to inspect your gutters every 3 months as they tend to shed their needles year-round. As a rule, most roofers and tree experts recommend cleaning gutters twice a year, typically in the fall and late spring.
How much should gutters cost in Florida? ›
How Much Does a Rain Gutter Cost in Florida? On average, rain gutters can cost from $3 to $8 per linear foot, but some materials can cost over $20 per linear foot. Residential gutters usually don't cover more than 100 linear feet, and a considerable number of homes fare well with 50 linear feet of guttering.
Should I get 5 or 6 inch gutters in Florida? ›
For larger homes with larger roofs, 5-inch rain gutters may simply not be enough to handle the volume of water that flows into them, even during an average rain. Roofers recommend larger 6-inch gutters for homes with roofs that are over 700-800 square feet, especially in regions that often experience heavy downpours.
How much do new gutters cost in Florida? ›
It will cost $1,700 – $2,000 to have seamless gutters installed on the average size home in Central Florida. The average cost is $7 – $9 per linear foot. Our installs are typically on the lower end of those ranges.
Are gutters optional? ›
In most cases, gutters are necessary to protect your home from water damage. You may not need to install gutters if your roof has long overhangs, your home is surrounded by concrete, or you live in a dry climate or on a hill.
Do you need gutters all around your house? ›
Homes with flat roofs typically do not require gutters all the way around, as there are no slopes to direct water toward the gutter. On the other hand, homes with pitched roofs will benefit greatly from having gutters installed to prevent water from seeping into the foundation and causing damage.
What is the building code 25 rule for roofing in Florida? ›
If you're a homeowner in Florida, you may have heard of the “25% rule” when it comes to roofing. This rule refers to the requirement that if more than 25% of your roof is damaged, it must be replaced in accordance with the Florida Building Code.
What is building code 706.7.1.1 in Florida? ›
1.1. Roof decking consisting of sawn lumber or wood planks up to 12 inches wide and secured with at least two nails (minimum size 8d) to each roof framing member it crosses shall be deemed to be sufficiently connected.
