Gutter with decorative metal ornamentation
Every house needs gutters to keeping rain from damaging a home's foundation, leaking into the interior and damaging a home's exterior paint. If you don't like the look of the standard-issue vinyl or metal gutter options that are commonly available, don't worry. There are choices out there that protect your home---and they look good, too. Does this Spark an idea?
Rain Chains
Why not improve the look of your vinyl or galvanized metal gutter system by replacing your downspout with some rain chains? Rain chains are a decorative and functional addition to your home's exterior. Rather than traveling through an enclosed pipe,the water runs off the roof and down a series of metallic chain links or small cups that guide the water to a drain, water storage system or decorative feature, such as a bowl or pebbles. Because the chain helps break the fall of the water, it minimizes splashing as the water hits the ground. Commonly made from copper, rain chains come in a variety of styles ranging from links to cups to decorative designs, such as leaves, flowers and fish.
Copper Gutters
Copper is a beautiful, durable and long-lasting material. These qualities make it an excellent metal for use in outdoor applications. Copper gutters can last up to 100 years, which make them a cost-effective choice. Copper works with any style of house, so the addition of copper gutters can enhance your home's exterior by turning a necessary feature into an architectural element. If you have a style of house where exterior decoration is an important part of its architectural style, you can easily incorporate ornamentation, such as metal birds that appear to be drinking out of the gutter, into the design of your rain gutters. Over the years, the copper will patina, which has an added benefit. The patina that occurs naturally helps protect the copper.
Downspout Decorations
If replacing your entire gutter system is beyond your means, don't worry. You don't need to completely replace your gutter system to improve its look. Sometimes a small change can make a big difference. Add a touch of whimsy to your downspout by adding a downspout decoration to the end of your downspout that is in the shape of an animal. Instead of just having the rainwater flow out the end of an unattractive downspout, the downspout decoration changes the look of the pipe by making it appear that the water is flowing out of the mouth of an animal, such as a fish or a frog. Not only will you still be diverting water from your home's foundation, you'll have also added an element of fun to your yard.
Tags: gutter system, home exterior, your downspout, your home, damaging home