The Evolution of Rain Gutters
Rick Garrett • September 10, 2019
Gutters may seem like a 21st century invention, but they’ve been around for thousands of years!
The gutters we know (and love!) today have evolved over time, but the core function of providing a channel for water to flow away from a main structure remains intact.
Ancient civilizations started by using stone, brick, and wood to build gutters meant to move water from one place to another. This behavior, often used for the irrigation of crop fields, dates to as early as 3,000 B.C. In time, the Romans began to use drainage systems on city streets to help move water and carry sludge away from structures and populated areas. The use of slope became understood and was used to force water (using gravity) toward gutter channels.
The Middle Ages brought along the idea to use gutters for both function and aesthetics. Can you picture those big stone gargoyles on large castles and other buildings? Those gargoyles were often used as a downspout for built-in gutter systems! Some say the Tower of London, which was rebuilt in the 1200s, had the first gargoyle downspouts ever built in Britain.
Over the course of the next 500+ years, new designs were developed, and new materials were utilized to make gutters easy to install and inexpensive to produce.
Metal rolling machines became popular in the U.S. around the 1900s – an invention that enabled workers to roll half-round steel gutters. Then, in the 1960s a machine for creating aluminum gutters came on the scene. Aluminum was a common choice for gutters and the new machine could roll-form seam or seamless gutters. It was an incredible advancement in gutter technology.
Aluminum rain gutters are still the most popular material and style used in construction projects to-date. Gutters have come a long way over the centuries!
If you have questions about rain gutters, the team at Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters can help. Founded in 1992 as a local family owned and operated business, Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters protect you and your investment with a strong business that backs up our 20-year workmanship warranty on the gutter and 10 years on the corners. As lifelong residents of Spokane, we are active in the community through business, civic and charitable involvement and support. Contact our team if you would like more information on any of the services we offer!
Getting a New Roof? Don't Forget About the Rain Gutters When it comes to home improvement projects, getting a new roof is one of the most important and substantial investments a homeowner can make. Whether your roof is old, damaged, or simply in need of a facelift, replacing it will undoubtedly boost your home's curb appeal, energy efficiency, and overall protection. However, while you’re in the process of getting your roof replaced, there's an essential component you shouldn’t overlook – the rain gutters. Why Are Rain Gutters Important? Rain gutters do more than just guide rainwater away from your roof—they protect the entire structure of your home. Without properly functioning rain gutters, rainwater can pour over the edges of your roof, causing water damage to your foundation, siding, landscaping, and even your basement. Rain gutters also prevent the buildup of debris and water from sitting on your roof, which can lead to rot, mold, and erosion. The Importance of Planning for Rain gutters During a Roof Replacement When you replace your roof, it’s the perfect opportunity to get an estimate for replacing your rain gutters, too. Often, homeowners don’t realize how these two jobs are related. If you’re getting a roof tear off, they’ll likely tear down your rain gutters. If not, it may be time to replace your rain gutters due to wear and tear, or damage during the roofing job, or to simply change the color of your rain gutters to match your house. What to Consider When Replacing Rain gutters Should you decide to replace your rain gutters while getting a new roof, consider the following: · Material: Rain gutters come in a variety of materials including aluminum, copper, vinyl, and steel. · Style: There are several types of rain gutters, including K-style, half-round, and box rain gutters. The style you choose should match both the design of your home and the capacity needed to manage rainfall. · Gutter Guards: To reduce the maintenance required for your rain gutters, consider installing gutter guards, such as Leaf Defier, to prevent debris from clogging up the system, saving you time and effort on cleaning. · Downspouts: Don’t forget the downspouts as they are essential for ensuring that rainwater flows effectively from the rain gutters to the ground, away from your foundation. Plan for proper downspout placement to ensure water is properly diverted. Plan Ahead for Rain gutters When you're scheduling a roof replacement, remember that your rain gutters are just as important to your home's long-term health as the roof itself. Taking care of both your roof and rain gutters at the same time will help ensure that your home remains protected from the elements, increases your home's curb appeal, and can save you money on future repairs. Your friends at Rainman Seamless Rain gutters are always available to help! Contact us today! Installing rain rain gutters is a specialized service. The crew at Rainman Seamless Rain Rain gutters is here for you. Founded in 1992, our family-owned business employs a team of tradesmen and experts who offer over 100 years of combined and accumulated experience, industry-knowledge, and local support. As lifelong residents of the Spokane area, we take pride in the service and products our team provides. If you have questions about rain gutters, we have the answers. Contact Rainman Seamless Rain Rain gutters for more information.
Leaves and needles don’t just play a vital role in nature- they also challenge your home’s maintenance. Unmanaged leaves and needles can clog gutters and create fire hazards, leading to costly problems. Here’s how to protect your home while respecting the environment. Common Issues Caused by Leaves and Needles Gutter Clogging : Fallen leaves and needles can accumulate in gutters, blocking water flow and causing overflow during heavy rains. This can lead to water damage to walls, roofs, and foundations. Fire Hazards : In dry regions, accumulated needles and leaves around your home can fuel wildfires— a significant threat to property. Roof Damage : Wet leaves and needles trapped on roofs can lead to mold, mildew, and rot, damaging your shingles and shortening your roof’s lifespan. Pest Attraction : Piles of leaves near the home can attract rodents and insects seeking shelter.  How to Protect Your Home Clear Debris Regularly : Rake leaves and needles away from your home’s foundation to reduce fire risk and pest attraction, and use a blower or broom to remove debris from rooftops and walkways. Install Leaf Defier : A gutter protection system that prevents leaves, debris, and other materials from clogging gutters. The system allows water to flow freely while keeping larger particles on top, functioning as a filter to maintain clean, clog-free gutters. We sell and install Leaf Defier at Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters. Roof Maintenance : Schedule regular roof inspections to ensure leaves and needles aren’t causing damage. We strongly encourage you to trim any overhanging branches to minimize the debris that falls on your roof.  Eco-Friendly Tips for Leaf and Needle Management Use Mulch : Mulch helps retain soil moisture and suppresses weeds.. Leave Some Behind : Not all leaves and needles need to be removed. Leaving a thin layer in garden areas can provide insulation for plants and protect soil during colder months. Composting Benefits : Leaves and needles are excellent for compost piles. Layer them with green materials like grass clippings and kitchen scraps for balanced decomposition.  Leaves and needles are a beautiful part of nature but can create challenges for homeowners if not managed properly. Implement preventative measures and embrace eco-friendly practices today, so you can safeguard your property, contribute to a sustainable environment, and enjoy peace of mind throughout the seasons. Installing rain gutters is a specialized service. The crew at Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters is here for you. Founded in 1992, our family-owned business employs a team of tradesman and experts who offer over 100 years of combined and accumulated experience, industry-knowledge, and local support. As lifelong residents of the Spokane area, we take pride in the service and products our team provides. If you have questions about gutters, we have the answers. Contact Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters for more information.
In today’s challenging economy, with the significant increase in cost of living expenses, now more than ever, your home is essential to your financial security. Did you know that seamless gutters not only offer a marked increase in curb appeal but also an increase in your property’s value, too? Learn more below! Enhanced Curb Appeal There is no question about it; seamless gutters will elevate your home’s aesthetic and increase your property’s curb appeal. There are many reasons why, but very simply put: since there are no visible seams (as suggested by the name), seamless gutters create a sophisticated and sleek look that blends flawlessly with your home's exterior. What’s more, seamless gutters can be customized to match your home's color and style, boosting curb appeal even more. Moreover, seamless gutters also ensure more efficient water flow and reduce blockage opportunities. Without seams that can trap debris, rainwater will instead flow freely, minimizing the risk of overflow and water damage. This protects your home and preserves your landscaping – ensuring that your home’s aesthetic is as visually pleasing as possible. Enhanced Property Value Seamless gutters are unequivocally the most durable (and most attractive) gutters on the market. Made from high-quality materials like aluminum or steel, seamless gutters are designed to endure harsh weather conditions. Additionally, the absence of seams means less maintenance is required, demonstrating one of the key advantages of seamless gutters over regular gutters; durability and minimal maintenance. When looking to purchase a home, potential buyers are going to be looking for gutters that are both attractive and long lasting. Homebuyers will prefer gutters that require minimal maintenance, as no one looks forward to the costs associated with constant upkeep. When you make the decision to install seamless gutters throughout your home, you are making the decision to not only invest in your home, but your own future as well. Homes with seamless gutters show that the seller has taken care to protect their home with high-quality, attractive, and durable materials. Remember that your friends at Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters are always here to answer your questions or concerns. Contact us today! Installing rain gutters is a specialized service. The crew at Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters is here for you. Founded in 1992, our family-owned business employs a team of tradesman and experts who offer over 100 years of combined and accumulated experience, industry-knowledge, and local support. As lifelong residents of the Spokane area, we take pride in the service and products our team provides. If you have questions about gutters, we have the answers. Contact Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters for more information.
As a homeowner, you already know that gutters play a large role in your home’s ecosystem, protecting your house from elements like snow or rain by creating a pathway to channel rainwater away from the foundation. If you have ever experienced water damage to your home and/or valuables, you know first-hand how catastrophic water damage can be. Therefore, it is important to prioritize your home’s gutters, and seamless gutters stand out as the best option. Learn more about the four reasons why seamless gutters are the best below. Easy Installation and Low Maintenance Seamless gutters are convenient and what’s more, efficient. Seamless gutters are custom-made which ensure a perfect fit for your home. Even better, seamless gutters are made on-site (your home) with specialized machinery, tailor-fitted to your home. Another pro: seamless gutters have fewer seams and joints; subsequently, they are less prone to clogs and leaks and require less maintenance. Pro-Tip: Regular cleaning is essential to prolong the lifespan of your seamless gutters. Use a gutter guard to prevent debris buildup and ensure proper water flow. Preventing Water Damage As mentioned earlier, water damage can devastate your home’s and foundation. By safeguarding your home from water damage, seamless gutters help maintain the structural integrity of your property. Seamless gutters channel water away from your property, lowering the risk of water-related issues. Seamless gutters are leak-resistant due to fewer seams, and the seamless design re-directs rainwater away from your home's foundation, preventing buildup and damage Enhanced Curb Appeal One standout advantage of seamless gutters is the enhanced curb appeal offered. Unlike traditional sectional gutters, seamless gutters provide a cleaner aesthetic for the exterior of your home via a sleeker design. Seamless gutters blend with your home's architecture, which can help to elevate your home. Additionally, seamless gutters have many customization options (colors and finishes) to suit your home’s color scheme. Even better, investing in seamless gutters can help increase your home’s property value making them a great long-term investment. Long-Term Cost Savings The initial investment into seamless gutters may feel higher than traditional gutters, however; the long-term benefits often outweigh the investment. Namely, seamless gutters require less maintenance compared to sectional gutters, saving you time and effort. The durable construction of seamless gutters promises longevity and requires infrequent repairs. Lastly, seamless gutters protect your home's structure, potentially lowering energy costs associated with heating and cooling. Installing rain gutters is a specialized service. The crew at Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters is here for you. Founded in 1992, our family-owned business employs a team of tradesman and experts who offer over 100 years of combined and accumulated experience, industry-knowledge, and local support. As lifelong residents of the Spokane area, we take pride in the service and products our team provides. If you have questions about gutters, we have the answers. Contact Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters for more information.
In summer, the abundance of sun and warmth makes it easy for a homeowner to forget the impending snow and freezing temperatures that will arrive in the winter. That said, the summer months are the perfect months to ensure your home is prepared for winter; particularly, your roof. Is your roof ready to withstand the snowfall? Learn more below! Snow Breaks: A snow break, A.K.A. a snow stop or a snow guard, is a device installed on your roof that allows snow and ice to melt off slowly, and cohesively, rather than in a sudden roof avalanche. They are often attached in a pattern, usually to the flat part of a metal roof panel, or clamped to the seam. Benefits of Snow Breaks: Protection – falling snow/roof avalanches can have severe consequences and can even be deadly. It is best to protect the “danger zones” of your home – in other words, the areas with the most foot-traffic (i.e. entrance/exit doors) – by installing snow breaks. Moreover, snow falling off the roof can be so heavy that it damages the property around your home such as a vehicle, patio furniture, equipment, etc. As mentioned, snow breaks can help you avoid this damage by diverting the snowfall from your property and breaking it up into manageable, lighter pieces of snowfall. Reduce Roof Maintenance & Save Money: Heavy snowfall causes a lot of needless wear and tear on a metal or slippery roof. In turn, this can lead to unplanned roof and rain gutter maintenance (and unexpected bills). Heat Cables: Another option to help prep your roof for heavy snowfall is heat cables. Heat cables serve to heat and melt away any major snow or ice/ice dams surrounding the cables on your rooftop area. As the cables heat up, they allow snow and ice to travel down and drain properly into your rain gutters, and into the downspout. Ice dams (or, icicles along the roofline) are formed when temperatures are at snow-melting levels (right around the freezing point). Ice buildup is not going to be as problematic during severe cold because the ice will remain intact; therefore, when melting occurs and the temperature is a bit warmer, heat cables will be most effective. Heat cables are designed to work best when the ice is at its melting point; any accumulation of melted ice is then more easily removed from the roof and rain gutters. Benefits of Heat Cables: Save Money – While your electric bills may increase, you will see savings by keeping your roof free from ice dams. If ice dams are continually occurring on your roof, you risk damage to your roof and potential damage to the interior of your home as well. Despite the initial cost, heat cables will save your roof from the constant presence of ice buildup. Things to check before going to heat cables is your attic insulation, to be sure it’s sufficient. Installing rain gutters is a specialized service. The crew at Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters is here for you. Founded in 1992, our family-owned business employs a team of tradesmen and experts who offer over 100 years of combined and accumulated experience, industry-knowledge, and local support. As lifelong residents of the Spokane area, we take pride in the service and products our team provides. If you have questions about gutters, we have the answers. Contact Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters for more information.
Gaining popularity over the last few years, rain chains are a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to downspouts. While part of their draw is their visual appeal; rain chains are also extremely functional as they manage rainwater run-off from your roof. With its Japanese origins, rain chains are a series of decorative cups or shapes chained together, which guide rainwater from your roof gutters down to the ground. When it rains, the water flows down the chain to create a superb waterfall effect. Rain chains are typically easy to install, making them both a practical and user-friendly option for homeowners. They can often be hung directly from the hole in your gutter where the downspout was previously attached. Special tools are not required, and many rain chains come in kits with the pieces needed to help attach the chain to your gutter. For environmentally conscious homeowners, rain chains fit the bill! Since rain chains guide the rainwater from your roof directly to the ground – or a barrel, or garden – the strain on local water treatment facilities is lessened as the water from your roof no longer funnels to storm drains. Moreover, rain chains are most often made from recycled materials, contributing to a reduced environmental impact – another bonus of opting for rain chains! Versatile in design and installation, rain chains can be added to any building that has a gutter system. Whether you own a charming cottage, or a commercial building, rain chains are no stranger to versatility! With a wide range of styles and materials available, homeowners can choose a rain chain that complements their home's unique aesthetic. Your friends at Rainman Seamless Gutters offer rain chains made from stainless steel, aluminum, or copper and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. From monarch rings to cups and umbrellas or teardrops to lilies, rain chains come in decorative styles that will enhance your outdoor living space while serving a practical purpose. Whether your home is traditional or modern, rustic or Victorian, there’s a rain chain option for you. Installing rain gutters is a specialized service. The crew at Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters is here for you. Founded in 1992, our family-owned business employs a team of tradesman and experts who offer over 100 years of combined and accumulated experience, industry-knowledge, and local support. As lifelong residents of the Spokane area, we take pride in the service and products our team provides. If you have questions about gutters, we have the answers. Contact Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters for more information, and request a free estimate today!
Lasting up to 20 years or longer if properly cared for, you might find that you seldom think about your rain gutters. Your gutter system, however, is an integral part of your home as it protects your roof, siding, landscaping, and even your home’s foundation from water damage. Signs and Symptoms You Might Need to Replace Your Gutters It is important to check for these issues listed below during, or directly following a rainstorm; this will help you to gauge how well your gutter system works. Although some of these issues can be fixed via a gutter cleaning, if you find the issue continues despite your repair, then you may need to remove your existing gutters and install gutter replacements. You should be mindful that if you have just moved into a new home wherein the gutters have not been maintained properly, then unfortunately, you can expect a much shorter lifespan than 20 years or more. Water pooling around your gutter downspout Cracks Peeling paint Holes Rust Sagging gutters Fallen nails or fasteners Leaking water in basement or foundation Repair vs. Replacement of Gutter System Though we recommend you always speak with an expert if you believe your gutter system is compromised, it can be possible to replace only the sections of your gutter that are damaged. As an example, if the issue is with the downspout that has become dislodged by children playing or over-zealous pets, this could be a simple replacement you as the homeowner might choose to do yourself (DIY); however, one big hindrance is making sure the worn or damaged sections match. In other words, because gutter systems have such a long lifespan, the materials (i.e. material, color) may no longer exist. Final Thoughts Remember to be sure to watch for the warning signs of gutter damage described above when you perform regular cleanings. You should clean your gutters at least twice a year, in spring and fall. If you live in an area that is prone to more or heavier rainfall, plan to clean your gutters more frequently than twice a year to protect the integrity of your gutter system. (in the spring and fall) or more often if you live in an area with heavy rainfall. Installing rain gutters is a specialized service. The crew at Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters is here for you. Founded in 1992, our family-owned business employs a team of tradesmen and experts who offer over 100 years of combined and accumulated experience, industry knowledge, and local support. As lifelong residents of the Spokane area, we take pride in the service and products our team provides. If you have questions about gutters, we have the answers. Contact Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters for more information.
If you are a homeowner living in the Pacific Northwest, exposed to elements such as rain and snow, then effective gutters are likely a top priority. Naturally, durability and the lifetime of your gutters is one of the biggest considerations in choosing the correct gutter type for your home. The crew at Rainman Seamless Gutters is here to explain how long seamless rain gutters last (as opposed to section gutters). Section Gutters Section Gutters are joined together in 10 or 20-foot sections, with multiple seams. Each section is linked together via connectors or couplings, and each section must be sealed/soldered at the joint with a roof and gutter sealant in order to prevent leaking or dripping. Gutter sealant will typically last around one to five years. Moreover, section gutters require frequent, regular maintenance, a process which entails re-patching, re-sealing and immediate cleaning of any blocked or overflowing gutters. · Lifespan : A typical sectional gutter will only last around 20 years (assuming regular maintenance) and must be re-sealed every one to five years. Seamless Gutters Seamless gutters are also known as continuous gutters. Meaning, they only have joints or miters at the corners where they wrap around your roof, but they are manufactured from a single piece of material. Seamless gutters are usually made from aluminum, copper, painted steel, or zinc. · Lifespan : Seamless/Continuous gutters last well over 20 years, even with such low maintenance. The Bottom Line Seamless Gutters are a long-lasting, less hassle and low maintenance option for your gutter system. In the long run, the benefits of seamless gutters will likely more than make up for the initial cost. Additionally, we, at Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters give you a lifetime warranty on the workmanship of your seamless rain gutters. Installing rain gutters is a specialized service. The crew at Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters is here for you. Founded in 1992, our family-owned business employs a team of tradesman and experts who offer over 100 years of combined and accumulated experience, industry-knowledge, and local support. As lifelong residents of the Spokane area, we take pride in the service and products our team provides. If you have questions about gutters, we have the answers. Contact Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters for more information.
Rain gutters can be an oft-ignored part of your home that can add function and flair to the overall aesthetic. Most importantly, rain gutters provide protection against the elements. At Rainman Seamless Gutters, we understand that it is your utmost priority as a homeowner to protect your home investment. Most experts agree that galvanized steel, or aluminum gutters are the most durable, however; it is important to have your home first assessed by a professional to determine your home’s structural needs and limitations and provide you with an appropriate recommendation based on their findings. Galvanized Steel: Galvanized steel is long-lasting (20-30 years lifespan or more) and more resistant to damage, and many experts agree is one of the best options for durability. Made of high-end metal, galvanized steel gutters can endure different weather and spend decades without damage. Galvanized steel is one of the heaviest materials for rain gutters, and for this reason, it’s typically not used for typical residential gutter installations. The steel rain gutter color options are a bit more limited, but with 20+ to choose from along with a metal fifnsh clear coat, they will still last 20+ years. Aluminum: Aluminum gutters are not only versatile, but they are also one of the most cost-conscious options available. Given it’s lightweight nature, aluminum gutters have a seamless and smooth installation process. Boasting 80 colors and different girths to choose from, aluminum offers vast customization options tailored to your home’s needs. These gutters can last for up to 20+ years with proper maintenance, but they can bend, dent and crack, particularly, with heavy rain and snow if not properly cleaned and maintained. The affordable pricing typically makes aluminum gutters one of the most popular choices among homeowners. Installing rain gutters is a specialized service. The crew at Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters is here for you. Founded in 1992, our family-owned business employs a team of tradesmen and experts who offer over 100 years of combined and accumulated experience, industry-knowledge, and local support. As lifelong residents of the Spokane area, we take pride in the service and products our team provides. If you have questions about gutters, we have the answers. Contact Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters for more information.
Traditional Gutters & Seamless Gutters Traditional gutters are popular for Do-It-Yourself (DIY) installation. These prefabricated gutters come in 10’-20’ long sections, attached together with connectors and caps, with droplet outlets intersecting with downspouts. In other words, traditional gutters come with pre-cut pieces that attach together in a sequence. Seamless gutters, also called continuous gutters, are custom-made to fit the house. They are not DIY friendly like sectional gutters, so this will require an expert to make them onsite, typically using a portable rollforming machine , and professionally install them. As a result, they can be more costly than traditional gutters. DIY Traditional Gutter Installation A DIY gutter project may sound easy to you as a homeowner—simply nailing gutter sections to the fascia board of your home. Easy, right? While installing traditional gutters can be a DIY project , it requires a lot of planning and will require some additional investment on your end as a homeowner. You’ll need to sufficiently understand the following: · The length of the gutter run and where the downspouts will be set. · Where the water needs to flow to protect the house and property. · How to inspect fascia and soffit for rot (removal and replacement may be necessary). · The best gutter profile and material for your climate and situation. · Where and how to install hangers along the roofline. · How to use a hacksaw or tin snip to cut the lengths to size. · How to notch the gutter. · How to attach the gutter sections with hangers and screws or rivets. · How to properly apply a sealant to seal the joints and connections. · How to make repairs or replace gutter sections if they become damaged. You are also urged as the homeowner to review any local building codes to make sure you’re in compliance. In short, you should have some basic knowledge of working with roofing materials and how the water can best flow away from your home. You may realize it takes more than just a hammer and nails to install traditional gutters. If you think you're getting over your head, Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters is here to help. Pros and Cons of Traditional Gutters & Seamless Gutters Pros As mentioned, traditional gutters are common for DIY installation. They can be cut with a saw to fit any house. Also, they come in a variety of materials, including aluminum, vinyl, stainless steel, and copper—and are offered in a wide range of colors. DIY kits are affordable and can be easy to install, depending on the gutter material and your skillset as a homeowner. The kits only come in half-round and K-style gutters, so homes built without fascia boards will require professional installation . As it pertains to seamless gutters, because they are seamless, they are less likely to suffer leakage or storm damage. This means they can better protect the structure and property. Also, due to their durability, seamless gutters will outlast traditional gutters often by decades. Cons Wherever you have seams you’ll probably have leakage. Because traditional gutters are connected by joints, there will likely be more water leaking through. Also, debris is prone to get caught in the seams, which increases the likelihood of damage. Traditional gutters require frequent maintenance with repairs and replacing damaged sections, as they don’t hold up as well in severe storms, they can separate at the seams. Traditional gutters last 10-15 years, compared to seamless gutters which can last anywhere from 25 to 100 years, depending on the material. Aesthetically, traditional gutters are not as attractive as seamless gutters because they can sag at the seams, therefore lacking the sleekness of a seamless gutter. As mentioned, seamless gutters cost more. Remember that they can’t be purchased directly as they are custom-made and installed professionally. source: Seamless Gutters vs. Traditional: What Your Customers Need to Know (newtechmachinery.com)
