As an expert in home maintenance and repair, I have seen firsthand the damage that can occur when a house does not have proper gutters. Many homeowners may not realize the importance of gutters, but they play a crucial role in protecting your home from water damage. Without gutters, water has nowhere to go but down, directly to the foundation. This can lead to serious problems such as water damage, cracks, arches, and even flooding in the basement. The purpose of gutters and downspouts is to prevent rain from spreading all over the place.
Without them, heavy downpours would bathe the entire exterior of your house uncontrollably. This not only causes soil erosion, but it can also damage lawns, backyard pools, and gardens. Excess water can also seep into your home, causing issues such as fascial decay, rotting wood, and foundation damage. When the materials that make up your home are constantly exposed to water, they become more vulnerable to damage. This can make it easier for animals to break through and settle inside your home.
Additionally, if you have invested time and money into your landscaping, a lack of gutters can be disastrous for your flowers and shrubs. Overwatered gardens not only detract from the curb appeal of your home but can also decrease its value. If you want to prevent these harmful effects from occurring in your home, it is absolutely necessary to have rain gutters. Those who do not have rain gutters in their house may have noticed a line running parallel to the base of their house on the ground. This is a clear indication that water is not being properly diverted away from the foundation.