https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/littlehampton-guttering-and-downpipes-near-me/ The Importance of Replacing Guttering and Downpipes The right guttering will divert rainwater away to avoid flooding soil erosion and foundation damage. Regular maintenance keeps them clog-free and operating efficiently. It is essential to determine the size of your downpipes in accordance with the roof size for proper drainage. This will ensure that the performance is in top shape. Placement Gutters are meant to collect and drain rainwater. However when they're damaged or positioned improperly, water could be able to seep into the walls and foundations of homes. This can lead to structural damage, soil erosion, flooding basements and crawlspaces that are damp and the damage to the roof. Proper guttering and downpipe installation is crucial to avoid this, and is often controlled by building regulations. Downpipes are the drainage pipes that connect to a guttering or spouting and funnel rainwater (and melting snow in cold climates) away from the home via efficient gravity flow. They also protect the walls and foundations from water damage, and help prevent rotting fascia boards and leaks. Correct downpipe sizing is vital for a proper gutter system because oversized downpipes could cause overflow and if they are placed too close to a home can increase the chance of flooding. The size of the downpipe will depend on the roof pitch and the size. A rule of thumb is one downpipe for 9m (30ft). There are many downpipe materials available, including vinyl and plastic. Metal options such as galvanised steel and aluminium provide durability, corrosion resistance, and long-lasting durability in most weather conditions. Plastics such as PVC or vinyl are lightweight and affordable. They are also easy to install. However, they could be susceptible to UV degradation in intense sunlight. After the gutters and downpipes have been installed, seal them together using high-quality siliconeized caulk