Why Your House Needs Gutters — Pt. 2

Inspectors frequently encounter recurring issues when gutters are missing or not functioning properly.

Gutters are one of the most overlooked components of a home’s exterior, yet they play a major role in managing moisture around the structure. During home inspections, missing, damaged, or poorly performing gutter systems frequently contribute to conditions that can affect the foundation, exterior walls, and drainage around the home.

Below are some of the most common issues inspectors observe when gutters are absent or not functioning properly.

1. Foundation Movement and Cracking

One of the most significant risks associated with missing or ineffective gutters is uncontrolled water at the foundation perimeter. Roof runoff that discharges directly at the base of the home causes repeated wetting and drying of the soil. In expansive soils, this cycle can contribute to:

• Foundation cracking
• Interior drywall cracks
• Doors or windows that bind or stick
• Differential settlement or heaving

In many cases, these conditions are described as “normal settling,” when inadequate water management is a contributing factor.

2. Ponding Water and Drainage Deficiencies

Without gutters and properly extended downspouts, inspectors frequently observe water collecting near the foundation after rainfall. Common findings include:

• Standing water along exterior walls
• Soil erosion near slab edges
• Washed-out or uneven grading

Even homes with initially proper grading can develop drainage problems over time if roof runoff is not controlled.

3. Fascia, Soffit, and Roof Edge Deterioration

Gutters that are clogged, undersized, or missing altogether can allow water to saturate roof-edge components. During inspections, this often shows up as:

• Rotting fascia boards
• Deteriorated soffit materials
• Delamination or decay at roof decking edges

These issues are often concealed until significant repairs are required.

4. Exterior Wall and Siding Damage

Water repeatedly flowing down exterior walls can cause long-term deterioration. Inspectors commonly note:

• Brick staining or efflorescence
• Mortar joint deterioration
• Failed sealant around windows and doors
• Wood rot in trim or siding materials

Over time, these conditions increase the risk of moisture intrusion into wall assemblies.

5. Moisture Intrusion and Mold Risk

Uncontrolled roof runoff often finds unintended entry points into the structure. Areas commonly affected include:

• Window and door openings
• Wall penetrations
• Slab edges and weep screeds

Persistent moisture intrusion can contribute to mold growth and interior finish damage.

6. Damage to Concrete and Exterior Flatwork

Roof runoff can also impact driveways, sidewalks, porches, and patios. Inspectors frequently observe:

• Surface erosion or spalling
• Undermining of concrete slabs
• Water flowing back toward the home due to improper slope

In some cases, these conditions contribute to water intrusion at entry doors or garage slabs.

Final Thoughts

Gutters may not draw much attention, but they play a critical role in protecting a home from moisture-related damage. Many of the exterior and foundation-related concerns identified during inspections can be traced back to improper water control at the roofline.

A properly designed, installed, and maintained gutter system helps manage roof runoff and reduce long-term risk to the structure.

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Why Your House Needs Gutters — Pt. 1