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Your gutters play a vital role in protecting your home against water damage. But have you ever wondered how they came to be? As it turns out, gutter systems have been around for centuries. 

Gutters in Ancient History

The concept of channeling and collecting rainwater for various purposes has been around since ancient times. The Indus Valley (Harappan) civilization, which lasted from 3300 to 1300 BCE, used water-based toilets that were linked by drains. From there, succeeding civilizations saw the need to shed rainwater from building foundations. As the Romans built their roads, they used gutters to carry mud and water. They even developed guttering along rooftops.

Gutters as a building component began when the Roman architecture made its way to British shores. Cathedrals and other similar structures were built during the Middle Ages, featuring stone roofs with built-in gutter systems. At the ends of each gutter were decorative gargoyles that give an image of “spitting” water whenever it rains. The same period also saw residential gutters that are made of wood from cedar or hemlock.

The Evolution of Gutters Through Modern History

The availability of metal helped revolutionize the development of gutters over the past few centuries. Between the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, gutters were either made of zinc or lead and then of cast iron and copper. By the twentieth century, steel, aluminum and plastic became the top material choices for gutters because of their strength and durability. Today, you can find gutter systems in a wide assortment of colors, styles and materials. Gutter protection systems have also been introduced in the past few decades.

Gutter Helmet®  Piedmont is the authorized dealer of gutter covers in the area. We have you covered in keeping debris out of your gutters through our Gutter Helmet product, which has been on the market for more than 35 years and is the proven leader in gutter protection. Call us today at (844) 204-1015, or fill out our contact form. We serve residents of Charlotte, NC, and the surrounding communities.