We may refer to our homes as “modern,” but most homes include an important piece of ancient technology: Gutters. For many years, buildings, homes, and roadways use gutters to shuttle water away from building foundations. So how exactly did gutters come about, and why are they still so important to our homes and buildings?
The history of gutters
While there has been evidence that drains dates back to 3,000 years BC, the advent of modern drains is because of the Romans. As the Romans constructed roadways, they crowned the middle so water would drain away. Gutter systems were built along the edges of the roads to carry away water to prevent damages to roadways. The Romans exported the concept of gutters to Britain. The first gutters in Britain were affixed to castles and cathedrals, where draining water spouted from gargoyle’s mouths. Over the years, gutters made from a variety of materials became commonplace on buildings including modern homes.
Gutters came to the United States with the colonists. The earlier gutters were made from boards, fitted together in a V-shape, and they drained through square, wooden downspouts. Gutters eventually are made of materials such as led, hammered around round pipes. On luxury homes, low-profile gutters are built under cornices to mask the gutter and emphasize the architecture of the building. Over the years, gutters evolved with technology. Different materials and gutter shapes emerged with round, square and K-shaped. Gutters made from stainless steel, aluminum, and copper are popular options.
The importance of gutters
Gutters have remained an important feature of buildings and homes for thousands of years. They properly shuttle water away from buildings. Without gutters, water would run down the sides of buildings causing damage to the building materials, windows and doors and lead to mold and mildew growth. Without gutters, water would pour around a building’s foundation causing it to crack, crumble or shift and lead to flooded basements. Gutters protect homes and buildings from water damage, and they also allow homeowners to collect rainwater for use around the homes and gardens.
Gutters and your home
Your home requires a working gutter system to keep it safe from water damage. Today, you can choose from functional gutters with a classic look to specialty gutters that complement your home’s architecture or historic nature. The Gutterman of TN can help find the perfect gutter for you! We can even outfit your home with a complete gutter system that is fully modern, aesthetically pleasing, low-maintenance and perfectly installed to protect your home from water damage.