What Makes Up a Roof's Gutter System?

Your gutters are crucial in managing water runoff from the roof, directing it away from the home and preventing serious damage. However, they often receive less attention than other components of the exterior until they get clogged, sag, or pull away from their attachments. If you want to keep them functional for as long as possible, start by knowing the essential parts and most common problems.

The Anatomy of a Gutter System

1. Sections

A system can be made up of many sections or a single continuous piece, depending on the style. They extend slightly beyond the roof's eave, collecting and transporting rainwater away from the property. The continuous design—also known as seamless—is considered to be superior to sections because there are no segments that can loosen and sag, letting water through.

No matter how they're designed, they must be debris-free in order to allow water to flow smoothly and not back up and pour over the edges. If they leak, water will seep into the ground, resulting in foundation issues and moisture damage.

2. Downspouts

The downspouts transport water collected in the gutters to the ground. Unlike the sections, they are enclosed and vertical. The most problematic area in downspouts is the connection between the pipe and gutter section. When it loosens, water runoff will leak out or fall straight to the ground.

3. Elbow

At the end of a downspout is the elbow, a bent pipe that further channels water away from your home. When placed at the top, it may also connect the downspout and gutter section at their openings. Since it is a movable component, it may loosen or become unsecured, causing water to spill out.   

4. End Cap

The end caps are flat pieces shaped similarly to your gutters. They're attached to section ends to close them off, preventing water from exiting the sides instead of the downspouts. Over time, they may detach and cause runoff to drain straight to the ground.

5. Attachments

Gutters need to be properly attached to your home to keep them secure while conveying significant volumes of water runoff. Fascia brackets and ferrules fasten the sections to the fascia boards or eaves. Downspout brackets and pipe cleats secure the vertical pipes to the sides of your home. 

Most fasteners come loose eventually, causing your gutters and downspouts to pull away. It's wise to keep an eye on the various parts and call a professional when you notice a problem.

Understanding what makes up your gutters lets you take better care of them. When your system needs repair, maintenance, or replacement, turn to East Tennessee Continuous Guttering Inc. in Knoxville. Serving property owners across Knox County and the surrounding communities, they offer high-quality installations and services. Call (865) 687-0170 to speak with a team member or request an estimate online.