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Rain Gutters Do More than Keep the Rain Off of Your Head
 by Hilary L
The proper installation and maintenance of a rain gutter around the periphery of your home is more important than most homeowners realize. Of course, staying dry and comfortable is important to a homeowner, his family and his guests, but rain gutters also protect the structure and safety of the house itself.
Walls
Without rain gutters, water will flow down and hopefully fall off the roof. Unfortunately, this is not always the situation. In many cases, water will flow around the eaves and down the exterior walls of the house. Water can often penetrate any open cracks around windows, doors or vents. Unlike natural precipitation, the water from the roof has been formed into a highly condensed flow and the infiltration of water can be substantial. The simple installation of a rain gutter will eliminate this problem.
Foundation
Similarly, without an adequate downspout and drainage system, water will accumulate around the base of the house and possibly damage the foundation or infiltrate the space and damage other items on the interior. It is essential to provide adequate drains to the sewer system to an area lower than the house to avoid this potentially costly situation.
Safety
Running water poses a significant risk if it accumulates on the walkways, patios or driveway of your home. Aside from the damage it can do to these structures, it can also lead to accidents or falls. Many people in their haste to get out of the rain will not pay sufficient attention to the conditions underfoot. Standing water can hide holes or other obstructions and cause generally slippery conditions. A simple misstep can result in a twisted ankle or worse.
In short, the prudent homeowner should ensure the adequate functionality and proper maintenance of his rain gutter system to provide the highest level of safety and security for his home and its inhabitants.
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