Gutters and downspouts are the type of home infrastructure that you don't think about until you've got a problem. When there is a problem, it can be expensive and complicated.

Let's give gutters and downspouts their due, after all, because they've got an important job: To handle all the water runoff from our roofs and route it to proper drainage away from the house. Gutters that are in good working order protect your home from costly water damage. Without high-quality, properly installed gutters and downspouts, you could be funneling water right to your foundation, which is no good.

When it comes time to replace your gutters and downspouts, you've got to choose the shape and material that will work best for your situation. To help you decide, I'm sharing this Buyer's Guide to Gutters & Downspouts created by Aerotech Gutter Service.

Oh, and when you do decide tackle your gutters, be sure to save your documentation. That's the kind of project that can add value to your home and improve your curb appeal.

To talk more about home improvements and how they affect the value of your home, contact me at (540) 793-0442 or rpayne@mkbrealtors.com. Be sure to like my page on Facebook.