Heavy rainfall causes significant problems for homes without gutters. Erosion, landscaping damage, and foundation issues can occur. Fortunately, there are several methods to control water flow and minimize potential damage, ranging from innovative products to smart landscaping techniques.

Why Do Some Homes Lack Gutters?

While most houses have gutters, some do not, including homes under construction and homes located in dry regions of the country.

Homes Under Construction

In new construction, exterior renovations, and roof repairs, gutters are often one of the last elements installed. 

Crews delay gutter installation to protect gutters from potential damage during the building processes. If the gutters go on too early and get damaged, they’ll need to be replaced, delaying the project and increasing construction costs.

A last-minute installation also allows construction crews to align the roof and gutter properly.

Close view of gutters and downspouts on a home with wood siding

Homes in Disrepair

For older homes, missing gutters are often a sign of neglect. Rotted fascia boards, which support the gutters, can cause gutters to detach and fall off. In severe cases, this can lead to more damage to the roof structure and interior of the home.

Often, these homes have underlying problems, such as poor roof maintenance or water damage, that exacerbate the issue. Property owners must address these structural issues before replacing the gutters to avoid greater long-term damage and higher repair costs.

Architectural Design

Some homes, particularly those in arid climates or with specific architectural styles, don’t have gutters by design. In these cases, the house needs an alternative method to manage roof runoff. For instance, certain architectural styles, such as mid-century modern or prairie-style homes, emphasize clean lines and minimalist design, opting to avoid the irregular appearance of gutters. Designers often integrate other forms of water management, such as extended overhangs or specialized landscaping techniques, that match the needs of the property.

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How to Handle Roof Runoff Without Gutters

Homeowners without gutters control water flow from their roofs in other ways.

In Japan, “kusari-doi,” or rain chains, have been used for centuries to manage water flow. Suspended from the lowest corner of the roof, they guide water from the roof to the ground or a collection barrel. 

Rain chains are typically made from corrosion-resistant materials, such as aluminum, plastic, or galvanized steel. Attractive and functional alternatives to traditional downspouts, they’re available in a variety of designs, including butterfly or leaf motifs.

Proper grading around a home’s foundation directs water away from the structure. Building codes typically require a 6-inch fall over 10 feet of distance, but those codes assume there are gutters. Homes without gutters benefit from an increased slope. 

To improve grading:

  1. Cover with grass or appropriate landscaping.
  2. Add soil to create a more pronounced downward angle away from the house.
  3. Compact the soil to prevent settling.

A French drain uses a combination of trenching, perforated pipe, and gravel to create an underground water drainage pathway, diverting the water away from the home’s foundation. These drains are particularly useful in areas where water collects or where the ground slopes toward the house.

To install a French drain:

  1. At 12 inches away from the foundation, dig a trench about 12 inches deep.
  2. Add a layer of coarse gravel to the bottom of the trench.
  3. Wrap a perforated pipe (usually Schedule 20 PVC) with landscaping fabric.
  4. Install the wrapped pipe into the trench with the perforations pointing downward.
  5. Fill around the pipe with more coarse gravel. Fill with the gravel if you do not plan to use grass or landscaping to hide the drain.
  6. If you want grass to hide the drain, top-fill with soil to accommodate the grass.

For homes where roof runoff lands on concrete surfaces, such as driveways and patios, a channel drain can be an excellent solution. These drains consist of a narrow channel with a grate on top, which collects and directs water away from the structure. They’re often installed directly in front of garage doors.

To install a channel drain:

  1. Attach the grate to prevent damage to vehicles or the channel.
  2. Cut a groove in the concrete at the lowest point.
  3. Install the channel section and secure it with concrete.

Louver diffusers offer an alternative to traditional gutters that can be installed directly on the fascia boards. These devices break up sheets of water coming off the roof into smaller droplets, reducing the impact on the ground below and preventing erosion. 

Louver diffusers are typically made from durable materials like ABS plastic, aluminum, or galvanized steel. They’re installed a few inches below the edge of the shingles, allowing water to pass through while diffusing its force. They can even be painted to match the home’s exterior.

Rain diverters are a form of flashing installed directly on the roof to redirect water flow. These effective devices are usually made from aluminum or galvanized steel and are bent at a 90-degree angle to catch and channel runoff. Rain diverters are especially handy for homes with complex rooflines or limited space for other drainage options.

To install a rain diverter:

  1. Ensure the angled portion extends beyond the roof edge to direct water away from the foundation.
  2. Choose a location along the roof edge where water pools.
  3. Lift one course of shingles and slide the mounting tab underneath.
  4. Secure the diverter with roofing tacks.

For homes under construction or for those awaiting a gutter installation, builder’s plastic can provide a temporary solution to manage roof runoff. Place 6 mm plastic sheeting under areas with heavy runoff to absorb the impact of falling water and prevent erosion.

Landscaping Techniques to Manage Roof Runoff

In addition to the methods mentioned above, strategic landscaping can help manage roof runoff. 

Create a Rain Garden

A rain garden is a shallow depression filled with native plants with deep root systems. It helps absorb and filter runoff, reducing erosion and improving water quality. For the best results, create your rain garden where water naturally flows or collects and use a variety of plant heights and types.

Use Permeable Paving

For areas near the house, consider using permeable paving materials, such as gravel, porous asphalt, or interlocking pavers. These materials allow water to seep through, reducing surface runoff, promoting natural groundwater recharge, and preventing waterlogging.

Plant Trees and Shrubs

Strategic planting of trees and shrubs can help absorb excess water and slow down runoff. Choose species that are native to the area and can tolerate the local climate conditions. Trees with extensive root systems, such as oaks and maples, are particularly effective at absorbing significant amounts of water.

Final Thoughts About Handling Roof Runoff Without Gutters

Managing roof runoff without gutters requires a combination of innovative solutions and thoughtful landscaping. By implementing one or more of these methods, homeowners can effectively protect their property from water damage, erosion, and foundation issues.

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Article Update Log
6/12/24
Reviewed for accuracy, cost data, industry best practices, and expert advice by Laurie Engle.
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Matt Greenfield

Matt Greenfield is an experienced writer specializing in home improvement topics. He has a passion for educating and empowering homeowners to make informed decisions about their properties. Matt's writing focuses on a range of topics, including windows, flooring, HVAC, and construction materials. With a background in construction and home renovation, Matt is well-versed in the latest trends and techniques in the industry. His articles offer practical advice and expert insights that help readers tackle their home improvement projects with confidence. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned professional, Matt's writing is sure to provide valuable guidance and inspiration.

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Laurie Engle

Expert Writer & Reviewer

Laurie Engle is a freelance writer who provides insights to homeowners on topics such as the home warranty industry, relocation issues, and real estate trends. As a licensed Realtor since 2001 Laurie has acquired extensive expertise in dealing with home warranty companies and navigating the intricacies of the real estate market. In addition to her commitment to helping clients with their home buying and selling needs, she maintains a sharp awareness of market dynamics, including property values, interest rates, and local regulations.

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