Homeowner uncertain whether pitch is the problem or wider gutter needed.

The other problem is where a gutter on the roof has a downspout emptying on a shorter roof below, and into another downspout. Water constantly overflows that second gutter. Again, how can I fix it?

A line of bare soil can indicate that the gutter above is clogged, leading to rainwater overflowing instead of coursing its way to the downspouts.

But there is still a chance rainwater can flow past the gutters in a heavy downpour. If your gutters have a screen to keep leaves and debris out, this may add to the overflow problem.

Properly installed gutters keep the integrity of your home intact by draining water from rain away from your home, thwarting any unwanted and potentially costly water damage.

Professional gutter installation costs between $8 and $15 per linear foot, more than twice the cost of doing it yourself. Read on to find out how to install rain gutters.

Gutters are located high and out of sight, so it's easy to forget about them or minimize their importance. Gutters are a key element of roof drainage, a system that keeps the foundation in good ...

This photo shows how an extender attached to a rain gutter downspout is used to direct water away from a home near Langley, Wash. Rain gutters cause most of the common home drainage problems.

Additionally, they keep doorways and windows drier during storms. But rain gutters have their downside, namely, they require some periodic (but easy) maintenance and repairs to do their job properly.