There is a part of most houses that can accent the look, is extremely important for damage prevention, but is seldom thought about, even if you’re looking at it; it’s the gutters. Coming from the Latin “gutta,” meaning “a droplet,” the first rain gutters appeared in the Indus Valley Civilization between 3,000 and 1,500 BC and were made from drains covered with bricks of burnt clay.

The next civilization to have them were the Romans between 27 BC and 14 AD. They didn’t take off until the concept was brought to Britain in 47 AD. Centuries later, as cast iron became plentiful and inexpensive, it became the main material used to make gutters, replacing lead. Throughout the years, other civilizations have used many materials as guttering with differing degrees of success, such as asbestos cement, PVC, copper, bamboo, and zinc. Knowing what we know now, lead and asbestos probably did more harm than good.

As the centuries progressed, wood versions began appearing on wealthy homes and public buildings. Wooden V-shaped gutters became the style of choice due to the appealing look and improved functionality and maintained its place as the main material used well into the 20th century. One of the reasons for woods’ lasting popularity is the ornate aesthetic that it can bring to homes when properly maintained.

The 20th century brought new metal rolling machines that produced half-round gutters made of steel that moved water much better than the V-shaped types. In 1960, the industry was revolutionized by machinery that produced seamless aluminum gutters that were lighter and stronger than the other materials. Aluminum dominates the industry to this day, with styles being half-round or K-shaped. There are also custom fascia gutters that are the most unique and customizable, but they are more costly.

Gutters and downspouts are put in place with only one job in mind, and that is to move water away from your home. Large amounts of rain can be a nightmare, especially for foundations, windows, and siding. When water pools up around a house, a laundry list of damages can add up and quickly and spread, as well as make your home susceptible to mold and pest infestations. Double J Roofing and Construction can fix these issues before installing a new system. On the flip side, however, they can prevent erosion, protect the rest of your outdoor living space, stop puddling on your patio or deck, and save your fascia and soffits by diverting water away from the house.

If you’ve been considering putting new gutters on your house, fixing up the porch, or redoing your roof, there’s no time like the present to get started. For years, Double J Roofing and Construction has been taking homes lacking in pizzazz and adding new features that make them pop from the front curb to the backyard. If you live in Monticello, Georgia, or the surrounding areas, and you’re ready to get your outdoor living space made over with style, contact Double J Roofing and Construction today for an estimate.