Gutters in Town 'n' Country, FL

Florida residential code requires gutters with downspouts on buildings whose eaves project less than 6 inches, except at gable end rakes or where a roof sits above another roof. Downspouts must discharge at least 1 foot from the sidewall, through underground piping, tail extensions or splash blocks. On a lot in Town 'n' Country, that clearance keeps water off your foundation during the June to September rainy months, which supply about 61 percent of the annual 49.48 inches at Tampa International Airport.

Downspout capacity matters too. A 3-by-4-inch or 4-inch round leader carries about 192 gallons a minute, while a 2-by-2-inch leader carries only 30. Pick the leader size to match the gutter it feeds, and use metal or approved plastic joined and fastened to the code standard.

Southern live oaks in Central Florida drop leaves that are a litter problem for gutters, and oaks, pines and melaleucas drive the pollen season, which runs January to June and peaks in March and April. Pines drop needles most heavily from September through November. Under heavy canopy, a sensible cleaning rhythm is after the spring oak drop, before the June to September storm season, and after the autumn needle peak.

Consumer Reports found that fine-mesh gutter screens held up better than larger-hole screens, but even the top screen struggled with a severe downpour. Screens do not remove the need to clean. Tower Hill Insurance Group advises cleaning gutters at least twice a year and more often with overhanging trees, since clogged gutters can cause water damage, mold and foundation issues.