Gutters in Winter Park, FL

About 60.6 percent of homes here are single-family detached, so most roofs shed water onto their own yard. The Florida Building Code requires downspouts to discharge at least 1 foot from the sidewall. That can be underground piping, a tail extension or a splash block. The distance also keeps water away from the foundation and the termite barrier.

Gutters with downspouts are required where eaves project less than 6 inches. The code skips gable end rakes and any roof that sits above another roof. Water is 15.6 percent of Winter Park's area, so many lots sit near a lake. Check that the discharge point drains away from the house and does not collect against the wall.

The median home was built in 1976, and 56.2 percent of housing predates 1980. That suggests many gutter runs are original or close to it. For one- and two-family homes the code calls for metal or approved plastic, with joints lapped, soldered or caulked. It also requires corrosion-resistant fasteners.

Winter Park is known for its extensive tree canopy. Southern live oak is a litter problem, and it grows 60 to 80 feet tall with a spread of 60 to 120 feet. Pollen season runs from January to June and peaks in March and April. Pine needle fall peaks from September through November.

A sensible rhythm under oaks and pines is three cleanings. Go after the spring leaf drop in late April or May, before the June to September storms, and after the autumn needle peak. Clean more often under heavy canopy. Consumer Reports found fine-mesh screens beat larger holes, but none of them ended the need for cleaning.

Hurricane Irma put a peak gust of 69 knots at Orlando International, and Matthew's damage in the county came mainly from falling branches and trees. Loose hangers and bent runs are worth checking after any such storm. For gutter work tied to a roof job, confirm permit needs with City of Winter Park Building & Permitting Services.