https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/guildford-guttering-and-downpipes-near-me/ The Importance of Replacing Guttering and Downpipes The proper guttering and downpipes direct rainwater away from your house to prevent flooding, foundation damage, soil erosion and mould growth. Regular maintenance ensures they remain free of obstructions and working effectively. The size of your downpipes should be in line with the size of your roof is crucial for proper drainage of water. This will ensure that the performance is at its best. Placement Gutters are meant to catch and drain rainwater. However when they're damaged or installed improperly, water could get into the walls and foundations of a house. This could lead to structural damage and soil erosion, flooding, damp basements and crawlspaces and even deterioration of the roof. To prevent this from happening, it is essential to install guttering and downpipes properly. This is usually regulated in the building regulations. Downpipes are drainage pipes that connect to the guttering system or spouting system. They redirect snow melting and rainwater (in cold climates) away from your house using gravity. They also shield walls and foundations from water damage, and prevent the rotting of fascia boards and leaks. Correct downpipe sizing is vital for a proper gutter system because oversized downpipes could cause overflows and if they are placed too close to the house could increase the risk 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 different downpipe materials to choose from including plastic, metal and vinyl. Metals such as galvanised metal and aluminium are tough and resistant to corrosion, making them durable in most weather conditions. Plastics such as PVC or vinyl are lightweight and cost-effective. They are also easy to install. However, they could be vulnerable to UV degradation in intense sunlight. Once the gutters