Gutter Strainers

The recent rain storms in the Triangle have blown pine straw from the nearby trees into gutters a little earlier this year.  I know what you're going to say next.  "There's always pine straw in my gutters".  For many homeowners here in the Raleigh Durham area I know that is right.

In any event, I would like to discuss gutter or outlet strainers.  These are the light-bulb shaped, mesh devices placed in the mouth or throat of the gutter's outlet, just above the downspout.  They are designed to keep debris out of the outlet and ultimately, the downspout. They are readily available in all the big box stores and some hardware stores in the area for several dollars each.

Over the last 10+ years we have seen hundreds of them in gutters we have encountered.  In nearly every case the strainers work very, very well.  Except when they are neglected.

Rain water pushes the gutter debris toward the outlet, where the strainer lies, providing the gutter is pitched correctly.  The strainer prevents the trash or debris from entering the outlet, as designed. So far, so good.

However, if the strainer is not cleaned on a regular basis (which most are not), the gutter and outlet are now clogged preventing rain water from entering the outlet because debris is packed so tightly around them.  The result is water literally pouring over the top of the gutter rendering the gutter useless.

The bottom line is if you clean and maintain strainers on a regular basis, they perform very well.  If you forget about them for a season or two, you can expect problems.

Downspout Problems

We run into this problem quite a bit. It can as much as several times a month. What is this problem? Gutters overflowing. But wait for a moment here. The title says 'Downspout Problems'. What do you mean?

We find all too often that gutters that chronically over-flow are as a result of trash (gutter debris)or no outlets in the gutter. I want to address the latter today.

Too many gutter contractors in the past, (80's, 90's and some even today) do not take the time, effort or expense to install an outlet in the bottom of the gutter. Instead they simply cut an "X" and literally punch a hole in the gutter, using the 4 tabs as an "outlet" IT IS QUICK, EASY AND CHEAP.

In the photo above, you can see an example of an "X" cut in the bottom of gutter. The opening here is for a 2"x3" downspout. You can clearly see how easy it is for trash to collect in the opening allowing water to over-flow the gutter.

If this is the case in your gutters, you do have a solution. They are as follows:

1. Clean your gutters more frequently.
2. Install gutter protection.
3. Install a larger (3"x4") outlet and downspout.
   

The latter is the most common solution for homeowners. It does allow more water (twice as much) to flow and also will allow more debris to pass as well. However, this doesn't mean you no longer have to monitor and clean your gutters. That unfortunately will still have to be performed.

If you are experiencing this type of problem, have a professional take a look and evaluate the problem(s). Finding the right solution will give you "peace of mind" and well as protect your home.