Keeping your roof maintained is a crucial part of any homeowner’s home management checklist. Not only do you have to keep debris such as leaves and twigs off the roof, but you also need to make sure that there’s no water pooling or leaking.
An effective way to do this is by opting for the gutter replacement Melbourne locals rely on when it’s time to replace worn downpipes and gutters. Typically, gutters should collect and divert rainwater from the roof. While they do have a long lifespan, they may, at some point, need to be replaced. This may have you reviewing the benefits of installing box gutters.
Why Opt for Box Gutters?
Not all gutters are the same. You may even be surprised to learn that there are a range of different gutter types to choose from. One of these types is box gutters.
Despite being shaped like a box, these gutters get their name from being “boxed” in between two roofs that drain water into it. This is usually the case when the box gutter is installed before the actual roof. These types of gutters are usually lined with asphalt, roofing felt or even metal.
Some roofing agents don’t recommend installing these gutters as removing them often involves removing roof sheeting. This can be a costly and time-consuming process.
How do Box Gutters Work?
If you’ve never given your gutter system more than a passing thought, you may be wondering how this type works. For the most part, the box gutter slopes to the side to make it easier to “catch” the water, after which the water pours into the downpipes.
An overflow feature at the end or on the side of the gutter forces excess water off the side of the building rather than pooling on the roof. Since this type of gutter system is placed between two roofs, the consequences of a leak can pose a greater risk of damage.
It’s important to point out that box gutters need a strict maintenance routine to keep them clean. Since this gutter system isn’t usually situated on the outside perimeter of your roof, it may be necessary to enlist professionals to routinely clean it out.
A Worthy Option to Consider as a Replacement
Since box gutters have primarily been used on commercial buildings, many people have assumed that’s what they have been designed for. However, changes in style trends have seen homeowners eager to use these gutters to create a unique look for their homes.
As they’re generally bigger and capable of holding more water, they are being used in high-rainfall areas. Our experts have compiled a few good reasons why many homeowners are requesting their narrower gutter systems to be replaced with box gutters.
1. Have a Higher Drainage Capacity
Box gutters are an excellent choice if you’re going to replace a current drainage system because it doesn’t drain well. Since they’re larger than other gutter types, they can easily move more water without getting blocked.
These gutters are more functional on homes with flat roofs as they reduce water pooling and eventual water damage. Many gutter experts may recommend installing them if they see that your current system isn’t big or strong enough to manage the rainfall in your area. This is crucial in areas that may be receiving more rainfall than when the original gutter was installed.
2. Create a Unique Look
Whether you have a sleek modern home or a more classic style, your home will benefit from larger gutters. In addition to being able to hold a higher capacity of water, they also add a unique look to your home. Expert gutter installers will be able to customize these larger gutters to fit the size and shape of your roof.
3. Durable and Long-Lasting
Replacing your gutters is a costly and enormous task. It’s therefore not something you want to be doing every other month. Choosing a drainage system that’s durable and efficient is essential.
Box gutters are generally made of strong materials and are built to have a long lifespan. Since they have a wider area for water and debris to move through, blockages are reduced. This in turn means that there’s less chance of pooled water creating leaks or rust.
4. Can be Custom-Built
Many credited gutter installers will offer a variety of materials that you can choose from to create the best-looking and most durable option. Box gutters are designed and shaped to the exact specifications of the roof and the rainfall patterns in your area. You can also choose the best colour to match your current outdoor décor.
Final Thoughts
While box gutters have many benefits, it’s important to check with your roofing expert for the best guttering system for your type of house. Share your reasons why you believe a box gutter system will be a better option.
They will in turn advise you if this system is the most practical and functional for your home. The good news is that there are a variety of other gutter systems, so finding the best one for your home is simpler than you think!
