Rainwater collection is an easy, green way to supply your home with fresh water. To work properly, this method relies on sturdy gutters and downspouts around the perimeter of your home. You'll need to work with a gutter installation professional to make sure the setup is effective and clean. Here's what they want you to know about the process.

4 FAQ About Rainwater Collection Gutters 

What parts do I need?

To make sure your conveyance system is the correct size, make sure it's designed to handle your area's worst weather. After all, your gutters will need to be deep and wide to accommodate the flow from a major storm. Meanwhile, the downspout's cross-section should have one square inch of surface area for every 100 square feet of roof area, meaning a 1000-square-foot roof needs ten square inches of downspout cross-section.

What factors affect water quality?

Your roof collects debris from plants and animals, as well as pollen and dust that blow onto it, so your system should be equipped with a first flush diverter that prevents the first wave of water off the roof from entering your holding tank. You also need to be aware of the average pH and particulate content of natural rainwater in your area. Northeastern Texas tends to get more acidic rainwater than the rest of the state, for example. You can have the rainwater tested to determine whether it's safe to drink.

How much rainwater can I get?

For every inch of rainfall, 0.62 gallons fall on each square foot of your roof. Some of this is lost due to leaks, splashing, evaporation, soaking into the roof material, and being discarded in the first flush. What's left on average is about half a gallon per square foot per inch of rainfall.

Why choose rainwater collection?

Collecting the water from your gutters is ideal if you don't have access to municipal water sources or don't want to rely on them. It's also an effective alternative to well drilling in areas with poor groundwater access or quality. It also helps divert and make use of water that might otherwise muddy your yard and damage your foundation.

If you need gutter repair or installation to prepare the way for rainwater collection, call Gutters Unlimited in New Braunfels, TX. Serving Comal County, they have over 25 years of experience and have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau®. To get an estimate, call (830) 907-3511 or send a message online.