Complete Gutters
Guide for Metro Detroit
Gutters: Your Home’s Unsung Heroes
Your gutters might not be the most glamorous part of your home, but they’re working overtime to protect your biggest investment. Every time it rains, storms, or snow melts, your gutters are channeling thousands of gallons of water away from your foundation, basement, and landscaping.
When gutters fail – whether from clogs, damage, or just being undersized for Michigan weather – the problems start small but grow expensive fast. Water pooling around your foundation, basement leaks, erosion, and even ice dams in winter can all trace back to gutter issues.
⚠️Don’t Underestimate Water Damage
A single heavy rainstorm can dump over 1,000 gallons of water on an average roof. Without properly functioning gutters, that water has to go somewhere – and it’s usually not where you want it.
Choosing the Right Gutter Size
Size matters when it comes to gutters. Here’s what you need to know about 5-inch vs 6-inch options:
5-Inch Gutters
Specifications:
- .027-gauge aluminum
- 2×3″ downspouts
- 48 color choices available
- Standard residential option
Best For:
- Most residential applications
- Standard roof sizes
- Budget-conscious projects
- Matching existing systems
6-Inch Gutters
Specifications:
- .032-gauge aluminum (thicker)
- 3×4″ downspouts
- Smaller color selection
- Premium capacity system
Best For:
- Large roof areas
- Steep roof pitches
- Areas with heavy rainfall
- Commercial applications
Gutter Materials & Quality
We use only premium materials and proven installation methods for lasting performance:
Seamless Aluminum Gutters
Our most popular option, custom-formed on-site for perfect fit. Using Michigan Aluminum Corporation or Quality Aluminum Products coil for consistent quality and performance.
Technical Specs:
- Hand-spun corners for perfect fit
- Aluminum hidden hangers every 2 feet
- All corners sealed with silicone
- Custom lengths eliminate joints
- Available in 5″ and 6″ profiles
Benefits:
- No leaks at joints
- Professional appearance
- Rust and corrosion resistant
- Low maintenance requirements
- Excellent value for money
Copper Gutters
The premium choice for homeowners who want beauty, longevity, and the classic appeal of natural copper that develops its own protective patina over time.
Technical Specs:
- Stainless steel or brass hangers
- Soldered joints for strength
- 16-ounce copper weight
- Hand-formed corners and details
- Natural weathering process
Benefits:
- 50+ year lifespan
- Beautiful aging characteristics
- Adds home value
- Environmentally sustainable
- Distinctive curb appeal
Brass Gutters
Another premium option offering the warmth of brass coloring with excellent durability. Perfect for historic homes or distinctive architectural styles.
Technical Specs:
- Brass or stainless steel hangers
- Professional soldered joints
- Custom fabrication available
- Corrosion-resistant alloy
- Hand-crafted details
Benefits:
- Unique aesthetic appeal
- Excellent durability
- Historic authenticity
- Low maintenance needs
- Investment in home value
Color Options & Selection
Aluminum Gutter Colors
Choose from a wide variety of colors to complement your home’s style:
5-Inch Gutters
Roughly 48 color choices available
- Classic whites and off-whites
- Popular earth tones
- Bold architectural colors
- Custom color matching available
6-Inch Gutters
Smaller selection of premium colors
- Most popular standard colors
- Neutral tones for versatility
- Quality factory finishes
- Durable color retention
We’ll help you select the perfect color to complement your roofing, siding, and trim for a cohesive, professional appearance.
Gutter Guards & Protection
Premium Gutter Guards
For 5″ and 6″ Aluminum Gutters
- Reduces maintenance frequency
- Prevents clogging from leaves and debris
- Professional installation recommended
- Compatible with our seamless systems
- Separate contract from gutter installation
Mesh Gutter Guards
For Copper and Brass Gutters
- Designed for premium gutter systems
- Maintains aesthetic appeal
- Effective debris protection
- Allows proper water flow
- Custom-fitted installation
Important Notes
Gutter Guard Information
- Guards are a separate service
- Not included with new gutter installation
- Professional assessment recommended
- Can be added to existing gutters
- Reduces but doesn’t eliminate maintenance
Our Gutter Construction Process
Here’s exactly what happens when Leach Construction installs your gutters:
1
Assessment & Measurement
We carefully measure your roofline and assess drainage needs to determine the right size and placement for optimal performance.
2
Custom Fabrication
Gutters are formed on-site to exact measurements using premium aluminum coil from Michigan Aluminum Corporation or Quality Aluminum Products.
3
Professional Installation
Aluminum hidden hangers are installed every 2 feet for proper support. Hand-spun corners ensure perfect fit and professional appearance.
4
Sealing & Finishing
All corners are sealed with silicone sealant for watertight performance. Downspouts are properly sized – 2×3″ for 5″ gutters, 3×4″ for 6″ gutters.
5
Testing & Cleanup
System is tested for proper flow and drainage. All debris is removed using our F-550 dump truck – no driveway mess left behind.
💡 Leach Construction Pro Tips
Quality Materials: We use only premium aluminum coil from trusted Michigan suppliers
Gutter Maintenance for Michigan Homes
🌨️ Winter Preparation
- Clear all debris before freeze-up
- Check for proper drainage away from foundation
- Inspect hangers for winter storm damage
- Ensure downspouts direct water far from house
- Look for ice dam formation patterns
☀️ Summer Maintenance
- Clean gutters after severe storms
- Check for pest nests or blockages
- Inspect seals and joints for wear
- Test water flow during rain
- Trim back overhanging branches
🍂 Fall Cleaning
- Remove leaves and organic debris
- Flush system with garden hose
- Check all hangers and supports
- Inspect for any summer storm damage
- Schedule professional cleaning if needed
⚠️ Warning Signs
- Water overflowing during rain
- Sagging or pulling away from house
- Rust spots or holes
- Water stains on siding or foundation
- Erosion around foundation
Frequently Asked Gutter Questions
We’re happy to answer any other questions you have. No commitment required – just helpful information to help you make the best decision for your home.