The Evolution of Rain Gutters

While you may take something as standard as rain gutters for granted, did you know they actually have a very rich history? Gutters were first used as early as 3000 BC and have progressed over the years to what they are today. While their former appearance may be different, the purpose has always remained the same: to collect and divert water to a particular location or area.

Rain Gutters Throughout History

• Ancient History: For the purposes of this conversation, ancient history will reference the period of time between 3000 BC and 1500 BC. This is the time period in which gutters are believed to have first been designed, developed, and used. During these early years, gutters were typically made from clay and bricks. These clay gutters were likely used for toilet systems and not rain collection. However, in ancient Greece and Egypt, gargoyle structures were used to divert water from important structures and monuments.
• Middle Centuries: As the Roman Empire expanded, road building became a major focal point of development. These roads were built with crowns in the middle to prevent water buildup. To collect water run-off, gutters were installed on the edge of the roads. During the Norman Empire (10th-13th centuries), there was a shift in architecture. Buildings were rebuilt with stone roofing, which required a gutter system that could ‘spit’ water away. The answer was primarily gargoyle structures.
• 18th & 19th Centuries: The 18th and 19th centuries saw gutters progress from rudimentary systems into high-quality home solutions. As cast iron became cheap and plentiful, it replaced lead as the primary gutter material. This produced a very aesthetically pleasing design and proved to be much more functional. For large buildings, internal downspouts were introduced to allow for invisible, underwater drainage.
• Modern Times: The 20th century was a time of great progression for rain gutters. Better building materials and improvements in production processes allowed for mass production of high-quality rain gutters. Seamless aluminum gutters became the staple design in the 1960s and have maintained popularity over the last 50 years.

The Value of Gutters
Gutter systems are an extremely valuable investment for any homeowner. They protect your home from unnecessary water damage, promote safety, and improve the exterior design in a subtle, yet noticeable way. If you want to invest in the future value and appearance of your home, do as the Romans did and invest in gutters.

A gutter system can specifically improve your home value by protecting your roof from collecting water, diverting water away from your home’s foundation, reducing damage to landscaping, keeping pathways and walkways clear of puddles, and improving the exterior architecture.

Colorado Seamless Gutters, Inc.
At Colorado Seamless Gutters, we are committed to offering high-quality gutter solutions for homeowners everywhere. We have a number of styles, colors, and designs to choose from and offer unparalleled industry knowledge. With more than 20 years of gutter installation experience, you can rest assured your home is in good hands when you choose Colorado Seamless Gutters.

Contact us today for a free, no obligation estimate and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have!