Gutter questions, answered

Seamless aluminum K-style gutters in a 5" or 6" size. Aluminum doesn't rust in humid or salty air, and seamless runs cut the number of joints that can leak. Our page on aluminum gutter options covers gauge and color choices.

It depends on the roof area draining to each run, how steep the roof is, and whether valleys funnel water to one spot. Many single-story homes do fine with 5". Large, steep or two-story roofs often need 6". See 5-inch vs 6-inch gutters.

Aluminum coil comes pre-finished in a range of colors, so gutters can usually be matched or complemented to your trim or stucco without painting. If your HOA has approved colors, bring the list.

They're cheap and easy to DIY, but long exposure to strong sun and heat tends to make vinyl brittle and prone to sagging. We explain the trade-offs in aluminum vs vinyl gutters.

No guard is maintenance-free. Good guards cut down on cleaning a lot, but fine debris, pollen and roof grit still build up, and some guards need an occasional rinse or brush. Details on our gutter guard page.

It depends entirely on the trees. Homes under oaks or pines may need cleaning several times a year, especially after the spring leaf drop. Homes with no trees nearby may need very little. Clearing gutters before the summer storm season is a sensible habit either way.

Usually the gutter has lost its pitch, a hanger has let a section sag, or an outlet is partly blocked. Standing water breeds mosquitoes and speeds up wear, so it's worth fixing. That's normally a repair job.

Away from the foundation, onto ground that slopes away from the house, and not across walkways or into a neighbor's yard. Extensions, splash blocks or buried lines can carry the water further. See downspout installation.

Usually, yes. Adding an outlet and downspout to a long run is one of the most effective fixes for overflow, as long as the gutter itself is in good shape.

Footage, corners, height, downspout routes and fascia condition all change the price. A number given without seeing the house tends to change later. Measuring first means the quote you get is the job we do.

Not necessarily, as long as we can reach every side of the house. Gates unlocked, pets inside and cars moved from under the eaves all help. We'll confirm the details when we schedule.

Requirements vary by jurisdiction and by the scope of work. Ask about your specific job and we'll tell you what we know. If your HOA requires approval for exterior changes, check with them before scheduling.

Make sure they're clear, downspouts are attached and draining, and nothing is loose or hanging. If a section has pulled away or a downspout is loose, get it secured before storm season. Afterwards, check for bent runs and loose hangers.