Gutters play an important role as they drain water away from your home, keeping your walls dry and reducing splashback onto the siding. However, there are instances when gutters can’t be installed due to the design of a home. This can be a functional or aesthetic issue, but either way, you’ll need something else that will serve the purpose of gutters.
What Are Rain Diverters?
Rain diverters are simple devices that are installed on the roof of a building to redirect rainwater away from specific areas. Typically made of aluminum or plastic, they are designed to fit on the roof or the edge of a roof and create a small barrier that diverts water away from vulnerable spots such as doors, windows, or basement entrances. Rain diverters are especially useful in cases where the roof design or landscaping of the house causes rainwater to accumulate in unwanted areas, leading to potential water damage or flooding. By redirecting rainwater away from these areas, rain diverters help to protect the structure of the building and prevent costly repairs.
While rain diverters are often considered a good alternative to gutters, they do have some disadvantages too. In colder climates specifically, diverters provide a foothold for ice dams. They can also be unattractive especially since they tend to break up the consistency of a roof’s appearance. But if these don’t necessarily concern you, rain diverters would be a good solution to consider. They’ll be able to offer some protection to your walls and siding avoiding the need for siding repair in the future.
When to Choose a Rain Diverter Over a Gutter
There are several instances where a gutter might not be able to be installed on a home. For example, if the home has a flat roof, a gutter system might not be able to properly drain the water and debris, and a rain diverter could be a better solution. Additionally, some homeowners’ associations may not allow gutters to be installed for aesthetic reasons, and rain diverters can be a discreet and effective alternative.
In situations where there is limited roof space, a rain diverter would also make more sense than a full gutter system. Rain diverters are designed to work in specific areas to protect the home from water damage, which means they can be installed in areas where a full gutter system might not fit. With their easy installation and versatility, rain diverters can be used in various situations where a gutter system cannot be installed.
Why Should Water Be Directed Away from the House
Directing rainwater away from the house is crucial to prevent potential damage and maintain the structural integrity of the building. When rainwater accumulates near the foundation of a house, it can seep into the ground and cause the soil to expand, leading to foundation settlement and cracks. Over time, this can compromise the stability of the entire structure. By redirecting rainwater away from the house, either through gutters or rain diverters, it helps to prevent water from pooling around the foundation and reduces the risk of water damage and structural issues.
Another important reason to direct rainwater away from the house is to prevent basement flooding. If rainwater is not properly managed, it can enter the basement through windows, cracks, or the foundation walls, causing significant damage and potentially rendering the space unusable. By implementing effective drainage systems like gutters or rain diverters, rainwater can be directed away from the house, reducing the risk of basement flooding and preserving the interior and belongings in the lower levels of the home.
Redirecting rainwater away from the house is essential for protecting the foundation and basement from water damage. By efficiently channeling rainwater away from vulnerable areas, homeowners can prevent costly repairs, maintain the structural integrity of their homes, and ensure a dry and safe living environment.
Tips on Installing Rain Diverters
During the installation of a rain diverter, you will have to loosen up some shingles. You can do so by using a pry bar to lift them gently and slightly. Some shingles may be stubborn so be careful not to rip or tear them. This will require precision, so it’s best to hire a professional for the job.
The diverter will also have to be nailed into place. The nails should be positioned at the back of the diverter so that the shingles will conceal the nail holes. To prevent leakage, experts recommend covering the nails with liquid cement. Moss Roofing offers an array of services including roof repair, siding installation and others. Call us at (317) 207-4778 or fill out our contact form to request a free quote. We offer our services to customers in Indianapolis, Indiana and the surrounding areas.
