Do Metal Roofs Need Gutters?

Making wise roofing decisions can save you time and money. One controversial roofing topic is whether metal roofs require gutters.

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Gutters are water channels that are designed to funnel water from the roof of a structure to a safe drainage area.

Strictly speaking, metal roofs do not require gutters because metal roofs themselves are resistant to the damage gutters are designed to prevent. However, gutters do play a significant role in protecting other parts of your property.

Related: Will Metal Roofing Rust? (And Which Types & Climates)

In general, gutters are essential because they prevent damage from rain, sleet, and snow. Rain, sleet, and snow can severely damage your property, but gutters help prevent that damage.

While your metal roof may be able to withstand a gutter-less existence, your building’s foundation, siding, and ground surrounding your building probably will not.

Some metal roofs lack gutters because it can be difficult to install and maintain a gutter properly. If a metal roof is fitted with a gutter improperly, the gutters themselves can be ripped off as a result of harsh weather—heavy snowfall or excessive ice naturally forming on your roof. If a gutter system is left uncleaned, then water can build up and damage your building in all of the ways the gutter system is meant to prevent.

People sometimes decide to go gutter-less because they fear the consequences of a poorly installed or maintained gutter more than the consequences of a poor or non-existent water drainage system.

Related: Metal Roofing Systems: Everything You Need to Know

The most common metal roof gutter problems include:

• Water overshooting (water shoots over the gutter system) – Make sure your gutter system is mounted high and consider installing rain guards.
• General damage caused by ice and snow – Snow guards or fences are a great way to prevent damage caused by ice and snow.
• Gutter collapse – Professional mounting by an expert that knows the best way to secure your gutter.
• Clogged gutters – Combining regular cleaning with gutter guards is the best way to prevent clogged gutters.

Gutters are not perfect. If a gutter is installed irresponsibly or not maintained, it can fail to protect a structure in the way it is intended to. But gutters offer protection that can save your building from severe damage.

Overall, it seems that responsible home and building owners should fit their property with a well-installed gutter system. It is important to recognize that there are a variety of different gutter systems designed for particular building and weather conditions. Therefore, it is best to contact a roofing professional to help you determine what type of gutter best suits your situation.

If you decide to install gutters on your metal roof, make sure to hire an experienced roofer. For over half a century, the Original Roofing Company has serviced the Las Vegas area. The Original Roofing Company couples their experience with a steadfast commitment to exemplary customer service. Whether you require a complete roof installation or new gutters, the Original Roofing Company is the right choice for you.