Are Gutters Required By Code? What Homeowners Need To Know
Curious about gutters? You're not alone. We're frequently asked about how necessary they are and if they're even required by code. Today, we're answering all of your questions about gutter requirements and more. Let's dive in.
First off: Are gutters required by code?
Gutters are not required by most building codes, but it varies depending on where you’re located. Some regions mandate gutters for all residential structures, while others only specify their necessity depending on the roof type.
We suggest checking your local building codes to determine whether gutters are required for your specific situation on the ICC website: https://codes.iccsafe.org/codes
Are gutters required in Iowa?
We primarily work in Iowa, so we follow Iowa building codes. Iowa adheres to the 2015 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), which outlines guidelines for property upkeep.
Pertaining to gutters, the code emphasizes:
302.2 Grading and drainage.
Premises shall be graded and maintained to prevent the erosion of soil and to prevent the accumulation of stagnant water thereon, or within any structure located thereon.
304.7 Roofs and drainage.
The roof and flashing shall be sound, tight, and not have defects that admit rain. Roof drainage shall be adequate to prevent dampness or deterioration in the walls or interior portion of the structure. Roof drains, gutters, and downspouts shall be maintained in good repair and free from obstructions.
Translation: gutters are not required by code, but it’s necessary to grade your soil away from your home, not allow water to collect in your yard, and ensure proper roof drainage.
While gutters are not mandated, their installation is still recommended for the protection of your home. Gutters play a crucial role in managing rainwater runoff, preventing water damage to your home’s foundation, walls, and landscaping.
Why aren't gutters required?
There are a few things that influence whether gutters are required by code. Including climate considerations, average annual rainfall, soil composition, and potential risks associated with water damage.
Homes in regions with heavy rainfall or expansive clay soils, for instance, are more likely to have gutter requirements due to the increased risk of foundation damage.
Gutters serve a purpose
If you're here reading this blog, chances are you're contemplating the decision of whether to install gutters on your home. So, let's explore the scenario where you don’t.
Picture this: when it rains, water cascades onto your roof. Now, you might not have noticed this before, especially if your gutters have always been in working order, but your roof handles a shocking amount of rainfall. This isn't just a light drizzle – we're talking a substantial volume of water.
Now, that water needs a destination. Without gutters, it spills off your roof, following a path down the side of your house and saturating the soil next to your foundation. And again, this isn’t just a trickle; imagine powerful streams, like a waterfall or a full-blast showerhead, running along the entire perimeter of your home.
Enter gutters. They manage what could arguably be the most critical element in your home: water. By redirecting water, they become your first line of defense against water damage to your foundation and basement.
It’s your home's drainage system. When rain comes pouring down, your roof becomes a slide for water, guiding it into the gutters. From there, the gutters channel the water through a downspout, guiding it away from the vulnerable areas of your property.
Now, it’s important to note that some houses can get away with no gutters due to the slope of the roof. But that’s not very common. While gutters may not always be mandated by law, installing them is a smart move to protect your investment and ensure the longevity of your property.
Gutters benefit you beyond code compliance
Even if your local codes don't explicitly require gutters, there are several reasons to install them. Beyond mere compliance, gutters offer a range of benefits, including erosion prevention, basement waterproofing, and protecting your landscaping from excessive water runoff.
By directing water away from your home's foundation, gutters help maintain its structural integrity and prevent potential damage.
Talk to an expert
Navigating building codes and regulations can be daunting. If you're unsure whether gutters are required by code in your area, it's advisable to seek professional guidance.
A local contractor or building inspector can provide valuable advice specific to your location and circumstances, ensuring you make informed decisions about your home's protection.
If you're interested in learning more about gutters and live in the Des Moines area, we'd love to chat. We offer free estimates, where we come to your home, inspect your home drainage system, and give you an estimate for your gutter install, all for free.
If you want a thorough inspection, or even if you just have questions about gutters, call us at 1-515-289-1606, fill out this form, or start a chat in the bottom right-hand corner.