Austin Home Search: Gutters: An Important Detail
Previous articles on this site have discussed the value of curb appeal, which is the overall appearance of a home for sale as seen from the sidewalk. Home buyers and sellers are generally aware of the basics of curb appeal, but there is a certain detail about houses that, although important, often gets overlooked. The state of a home's gutters can reveal a lot about its overall upkeep.Gutter Materials
Gutters are generally made from one of three different materials: wood, metal, and plastic. When you are evaluating a potential property, it is important to note what type of gutters it comes with.- Wood: Wood gutters were the standard for a long time, and may still be found on some older homes. Unfortunately, it is not the best material to make gutters from. Even treated wood will inevitably rot over time and need to be replaced.
- Metal: While metal has a longer life than wood, rust may be a problem. The type and quality of metal used is an important variable here.
- Plastic: Plastic gutters are generally the best option. They can withstand years of rainstorms before needing to be replaced.
Gutter Conditions
The material is not the only important detail about gutters. Potential home buyers also need to check where the rainwater will fall. Will it just land on the ground and form a huge puddle? Or is the spout designed to let the water flow away from the house?Whether you are looking for a new home, or trying to sell your old one, it is important to keep details like these in mind. Poorly maintained or designed gutters will not only be a nuisance for the family moving into the home; they can also hint at how well previous owners cared for the home overall.
