Do gutters increase home value?

Gutters do not necessarily add to the value of your home. New guttering is actually one of the few external home improvements that could make your property worth more. While you might be put off by the initial cost of upgrading, be aware that this could almost pay for itself in what it could add to the price of your home. The most effective types of gutter guards also prevent squirrels from hiding seeds, which is the reason you may see sunflowers or other vegetation growing on the edge of your roof.

When your home’s gutter system functions properly by collecting and draining water away from your home’s foundation then the rest of your home’s exterior should be in relatively good condition. While gutters may not increase the value of your home, gutter guards could add value to your appraisal. Properly installed gutters will effectively ensure water is being taken away from your home to prevent damage to the siding, garden and foundation. Proper guttering might also reduce your need for pest control as standing water can help certain outdoor life breed.

While good functioning gutters on your home may not add to the value of your property, if you don’t have gutters or have malfunctioning gutters, it will negatively affect the value of your home. A new gutter system that complements your home’s exterior adds curb appeal that may just result in your home being under contract. It’s nearly impossible to provide an average cost of gutters because there are multiple factors at play. The cost of putting in gutters is nothing compared to the cost of repairing your home’s foundation damage or cleaning up a basement that gets soaked every time it rains.

While the cost of gutters can seem to be a burden, new gutters or a gutter replacement is a smart choice. However, gutters (and gutter guards) are an attractive feature to buyers in areas that receive rain because they offer a lot of benefits. After all, gutters are certainly important, gutters in good condition can protect your roof, and prevent basement flooding, and other kinds of water damage to your home.

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