Seamless vs. Seamed Gutter Sections
When purchasing new house gutters, one of the most important decisions you are faced with is whether or not they should have seams. Here’s what you need to know!
Gutter Sections With Seams
Seamed gutters, also known as sectional gutters are the most basic type of gutter. They can be purchased in segments which are cut to size using a saw. To fuse sections and downspouts, snap-in connectors are used.
For skilled DIYers, they are straightforward to put together and many homeowners can install gutters with seams without the assistance of a contractor. This allows the homeowner to save on labor costs, making them more affordable than gutters without seams. However, if not properly sloped, seamed gutters can become a haven for standing water which often results in clogging. Clogged gutters attract mosquitoes and other pests since the stagnant water creates an ideal habitat for them.
Another drawback of gutter sections is that over time the seams weaken and become a spot that is prone to leaking. Once gutters leak, they are unable to correctly filter water away from your home. If this issue is left unattended, your home’s foundation can be weakened, landscaping can be washed away, and basement flooding can occur. Seamed gutter sections are frequently smaller than seamless gutters, making them prone to overflowing during heavy rainfall. Another problem with sectional gutter systems is that they are notorious for collecting organic debris such as leaves and pine needles. This means routine maintenance is necessary to prevent damage caused by clogged gutters.
Seamless Gutters
Seamless gutters are continuous sections of metal guttering that are custom manufactured to fit the specific dimensions of your home. In order to not void your roofing manufacturer’s warranty, the seamless gutter installation should be attached to the home’s fascia board and not asphalt shingles.
Because seamless one-piece gutters are comprised of more robust materials and professional installation is needed, they are a more substantial investment than seamed gutters. High-quality seamless rain gutter systems, such as LeafGuard®, are virtually maintenance-free. They have earned the prestigious Good Housekeeping Seal of approval. In addition, the patented durable gutter system is guaranteed never to clog, or the installing contractor will provide you with a complimentary cleaning. The oversize system adds to a home’s curb appeal because it blends in with your exterior architectural features, giving it the look of crown molding.
