Gutters in Miami Springs, FL

Florida's building code requires downspouts on buildings whose eaves project less than 6 inches, and each downspout must send water at least 1 foot away from the sidewall. With heavy rain, a downspout that dumps at the foundation can soak the footing of a 1958 house in a way a shower never would.

The code allows discharge through underground piping, tail extensions or splash blocks. Use whichever keeps the water moving away from the house on your lot. Under a warranty, many roofers require positive drainage, so check how your gutters discharge before a roof job.

• Confirm each downspout ends at least 1 foot from the sidewall.
• Check that the leader size matches the roof area it drains.
• Look for water pooling at the base of the wall after a storm.

Southern live oaks drop leaves and fruit that become a litter problem, and oaks and pines are major pollen producers in Florida. Pollen peaks in March and April, and the pine-needle fall peaks September through November. A clogged gutter in one of those months can overflow into the first June storm.

Insurers and roofing trade sources advise cleaning gutters at least twice a year, and more often under heavy trees or frequent storms. A sensible rhythm for a canopy lot is late April or May, before the June to September season, and again late November or December. Clogged gutters can cause water damage, mold and foundation trouble.