Hello, everyone! It's TJ from Sanctified Homes. If you've been following our series, you know we've been diving deep into the intricacies of home construction. In our last episode, we discussed the importance of shower detailing. Today, we're shifting our focus to the exterior of the house, specifically discussing preemptive planning for gutter placement.

The Problem with Poorly Placed Gutters

One common oversight I've observed in many homes is the placement of gutters, especially at the front. It's not uncommon to see gutters that drain directly onto sidewalks. This not only creates a muddy mess but, during colder months, can lead to dangerous icy patches. The last thing anyone wants is a slip and fall right outside their front door.

Moreover, these improperly placed gutters can lead to long-term damage to the sidewalk itself. Continuous water flow can erode the concrete over time, leading to cracks, uneven surfaces, and even structural damage. This not only poses a safety hazard but can also lead to costly repairs in the future.

Preemptive Planning: The Solution

Safety First

Before pouring the sidewalk leading up to the front door of our parade home, we took a proactive approach. By installing black corrugated tubing for drainage, we ensure that the water from the gutters will be directed away from the walking path. This eliminates the risk of icy patches in winter and muddy puddles during rain.

Additionally, by ensuring that water is directed away from the main walking areas, we're also preserving the aesthetic appeal of the home's exterior. No homeowner wants to deal with unsightly water stains or algae growth on their sidewalks. Proper gutter placement ensures that the home's exterior remains pristine and inviting.

Water Management

Beyond safety, there's another crucial reason for this preemptive planning: water management. A staggering 90% of basement water issues stem from poor water management. By directing the water away from the house, we're not just preventing potential sidewalk hazards; we're also safeguarding the home's foundation from water damage.

Effective water management is about more than just preventing basement flooding. It's about ensuring the longevity of the home's structure. Water that pools around the foundation can lead to soil erosion, which can compromise the structural integrity of the house. By ensuring that water is effectively channeled away, we're taking a holistic approach to home protection.

The Importance of Thinking Ahead

Such details might seem minor, but they can make a significant difference in the long run. Once the sidewalk is poured, making changes becomes a challenging and often expensive task. It's essential to think ahead and anticipate potential issues.

In the world of home construction, foresight is invaluable. By anticipating potential challenges and addressing them in the planning phase, we can avoid costly and time-consuming corrections down the line. It's this proactive approach that ensures our homes are not only beautiful but also functional and durable.

Wrapping Up

It's these little details, the preemptive planning, that sets a home apart. At Sanctified Homes, we're committed to not just building houses but creating safe, durable, and efficient homes for families. If you're interested in seeing more of our work, don't miss the upcoming Fall 2023 Parade of Homes. We've got a lot more insights to share!

Remember, in every aspect of home construction, it's essential to raise the standard. Until next time, take care, and happy home building!

If you want to learn more about Sanctified Homes & Construction, checkout our homepage at WisconsinHomeBuild.com, or book a call directly on my calendar here.