Correctly installed gutters have:

• Proper Slope: We always install our gutters with levels to ensure proper slope so that the rain water will travel to the downspout. Proper sloping on a gutter needs to be somewhere around a quarter inch drop per 10 feet of length.
• Correct Fasteners: We always fasten our gutters with Raytec hidden hangers & screws. The old school procedure is to fasten the gutter with spikes & ferrules or hidden hangers fastened with a small nail. Anytime a gutter is fastened with spikes or nails , it will eventually pull loose,causing water to travel behind the gutter. This is why so many homes have rotten soffit & fascia boards. Also when a gutter is nailed on, it is almost impossible to adjust if needed. Screws will very seldom pull loose if ever! The Raytec hanger is strong enough to handle up to 225 lbs of weight!
• Correctly Sealed: One very important procedure to installing a gutter system correctly is to use proper sealer on the corners & end caps. The best product that we have found is called Geocel. We like this product because it seals great, yet stays pliable & is able to flex without cracking as the aluminum expands & contracts. Yes there are other products that will work just as well, but Geocel was manufactured specifically for the gutter industry.

A new gutter system should last 20-30 years easily if it is installed correctly the first time.

The best way to determine the condition of your rain gutters is to have a gutter professional inspect your entire gutter system. Give Southern Gutter Service a call and we’ll provide you with a quote for any needed repairs, new gutters or just a gutter cover system to make your gutters more maintenance free.

Warning signs that you may need to replace your gutters:

Here are some easy warning signs that might suggest you have a gutter problem, you should be able to spot these warning signs safely from the ground without going onto a ladder.

• Spike and ferrule fasteners: This old system of nails or “spikes” going through the gutter and into the fascia board has been phased out. If your gutters have these fasteners, chances are they are drawing water into your fascia board and may be causing water damage.
• Sagging gutters or gutters that are pulling away from your house. The weight of debris or standing water can cause gutters to pull away from the fascia boards. Once this process starts it needs to be repaired as the added weight will continue to gather at the lowest point and pull the gutter away from the home.
• Damp basements, foundation cracks or pooling water against your home indicate that the gutters are not carrying water away or that water may be leaking from the gutter system
• Mold, peeling paint or obvious rot around your siding or fascia. This is a clear indicator that water is escaping the gutter system and causing damage to your home.
• Overflowing gutters and obvious leaks are a sign of blocked gutters or failing miter joints.

Rains chains as an alternate to traditional downspouts

Rain chains are a beautiful and functional alternative to traditional, closed gutter downspouts. Guiding rain water visibly down chains or cups from the roof to the ground, rain chains transform a plain gutter downspout into a pleasing water feature. From the soft tinkling of individual droplets to the soothing rush of white water, they are a treat to listen to.

Rain chains come in many different designs and materials. They are generally either link style, resembling a chain of loops to guide the water down, or s series of cups with links between to lead the water down. These designs can be done in steel, aluminum or copper.