With the growing popularity of outdoor living, homeowners are looking for ways to maximize their properties. One way to do this is through in-ground gutters. These drain pipe, or pipes, can be an attractive solution instead of regular “above gutters systems”, blending into landscaping.
Here are some of the points we’ve compared to help you to understand if this new type of “underground gutter drainage system” can be applied in your home. And if so, why would you even consider it as an option? Stick with me, and you will shortly understand more about the pros, cons, and our professional opinion about it.
What is an in-ground gutter?
The in-ground gutter is a type of underground gutter drain that is installed right around the house premises or foundation. They are stand-alone systems, which means they do not rely on an existing structure or foundation to work properly. They’re commonly used in residential and commercial applications, as well as industrial facilities. These gutters are typically made from aluminum but can also be made from steel or PVC plastic.
French Drains
A French drain or weeping tile is a trench filled with gravel or rock that redirects ground and surface water away from an area. As the water flows through the trench, it drains into a dry well. The materials here are different, but the idea is the same, remove water flow from the near-house foundation.
Measuring Potential Problems and Solutions
To begin correctly, let’s review and discuss possible gutter problems and actions we would need to take to fix these problems and how difficult they would be comparing both gutter systems.
Trapped rain water
In damaged or clogged gutters, it is common to have what we call water pooling in certain segments. What would be a better place to resolve problems like this one? In-ground or above gutters? For sure above gutters are easier and less expensive.
Water damages
Water damage occurs when certain spots of a gutter system break, creating gaps and potential gutter leaks. This water will infiltrate places, creating incalculable damage.
When this happens in the above gutters, chances are you’re going to see a lot of signs that your gutter needs repair. On the other hand, in-ground you wouldn’t be able to spot until you start seeing problems in the foundation or basement.
Broken gutters
No doubts above gutters will break more often than underground gutters. The risk of being carried away from the house by the wind, the heavy rains weight, or falling trees could easily brake regular gutters. Underground, on the other hand, there’s not much going on.
Few Facts When Talking about In-ground Systems
Installation is more complicated than with an above-ground gutter. You’ll need to hire a professional to dig trenches for you (similar to an underground drainage system), which can be very time-consuming and costly.
Gutter Cleaning is more difficult with underground systems— you’ll need special equipment or long poles to reach them without having to open specific areas! This can get messy fast if you’re not careful about how much water gets into them while cleaning out clogs or any other obstructions (like leaves) that may cause blockages in their path as well as possible leaks through cracks along joints between sections.
They are, on average, less expensive than other types of gutters. This is true because they’re typically made from the same materials as above-ground models, but they don’t require any additional labor to install. That means you can save money by working directly with a professional instead of hiring an additional contractor to do the work for you.
Low maintenance, since they hid underground! No need for gutter covers, gutter downspouts, or downspout extensions.
Better looks without gutters and downspouts around! Many times, homeowners struggle to fit downspouts nicely around their homes. If not, where to dispose of the water is the other issue. Knowing that the water needs to be released at least 2-3 ft. from the house, it’s definitely something important to arrange.
Gutters In-ground Installation Costs
Installing underground gutters is a lot more expensive, and much more labor-intensive. It requires digging a trench for the gutter to sit in and digging another hole (or multiple holes) for the pipe that brings water from your house down to the gutter.
If you have rocky soil or roots in your yard, this can be difficult work—and if you don’t know what you’re doing, it could cost thousands of dollars to hire professionals.
To install above-ground gutters on your own home, all you need is basic hand tools (like shovels and saws) and some time. You’ll also need a ladder if you’re planning on climbing up onto your roof regularly during installation—but even if not every step of this process is simple or easy, it’s definitely cheaper than hiring someone else!
Why Switch to an In-Ground Gutter System
These gutters can be attractive and blend into landscaping. Takeaway: Underground gutter systems are a good option for many properties that have enough space for drainage.
These systems are an excellent choice for properties that have sufficient space for drainage. They can be installed on the outside or inside of a building, and they come in a wide variety of styles and materials.
The most common materials include metal and plastic, which both provide durability as well as aesthetic appeal. Installing a gutter system will keep water away from your home while also making it look attractive!
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
In-ground gutters are the perfect solution for your home if you need to keep water away from your foundation. They are also a good option if you have a lot of extra space on your property and want something that blends into landscaping.
In addition, they are less expensive than above-ground gutter systems and easier to install. On the other hand, these types of gutters require more work during installation because they need trenches dug in order to lay down pipes. It also makes it more difficult to access them if repairs or cleaning are needed at some point down the road.
We do recommend this type of gutter if you are already planning projects involving drainage pipe, or underground drain of any sort. Brand new projects or home addition projects would also be great opportunities to get this kind of gutter system installed!
Seamless above gutters on the other hand will always be the first and best option for simplicity and effectiveness! Find more about how we can help with your gutter installation in Massachusetts!
