Here’s what you need to know about why builders may not include gutters. When building a new home in Minnesota, particularly in the Minneapolis area, you might assume that gutters are automatically included. However, many new constructions are completed without gutters, leaving homeowners responsible for their installation post-construction.
Why Gutters Are Essential for Your New Home
Minnesota’s climate, characterized by heavy rainfall and snowmelt, makes gutters crucial for protecting your home. Without them, water can accumulate around your foundation, leading to potential damage such as basement flooding, erosion, and structural issues. Gutters channel water away from your home’s exterior, preserving its integrity and value.
The Importance of Professional Gutter Installation
Opting for professional gutter installation ensures that your system is tailored to your home’s specific needs. Experienced contractors can assess your roofline, choose appropriate materials, and install a system that effectively manages water runoff. This proactive approach can prevent costly repairs in the future.
Why Builders Don’t Include Gutters with New Construction Homes
If you’ve recently bought or are planning to buy a new construction home in Minnesota, you might be surprised to find one crucial feature missing: gutters. While you’d expect a brand-new home to be fully finished and move-in ready, gutters are often left out of the initial build. But why is that?
Let’s break down why many builders in Minneapolis and throughout Minnesota skip gutters—and why calling the pros, like Call The Gutter Guys, should be your next step.
1. Gutters Are Considered an Exterior “Extra”
Believe it or not, many home-builders don’t consider gutters to be a standard part of the structure. They often fall under the category of exterior add-ons or “upgrades.” Just like landscaping or a deck, gutters may be something you’re expected to handle separately—either through the builder at an additional cost or with an outside contractor like Call The Gutter Guys.
2. Cost-Saving for the Builder
Home-builders are often looking to cut costs wherever possible—especially in today’s tight housing market. Omitting gutters is one way they can save on materials and labor while still delivering a “finished” product. Unfortunately, this leaves new homeowners with the task (and expense) of installation after move-in.
3. Local Code Doesn’t Always Require It
In most parts of Minnesota, building codes don’t require gutters, especially if the home has proper grading and drainage. In Minneapolis, certain neighborhoods may have stricter rules, but many do not. Builders will often do the minimum required unless otherwise specified in your contract. If you’re buying a home and want the builder to include gutters make sure to ask the Realtor to include it in the purchase agreement The Derrick Monroe Group says.
4. Builders Expect Homeowners to Customize
Much like flooring, lighting, or paint colors, some builders assume homeowners will want to customize their gutter system to match their preferences—material, color, style, and even gutter guards. This puts the responsibility on the homeowner to choose a professional installer like Call The Gutter Guys, who can provide tailored, high-quality solutions.
5. It’s a Missed Opportunity for Long-Term Protection
Here’s the kicker: skipping gutters might save the builder money in the short term, but it can cost homeowners big in the long run. Without gutters, rainwater and melting snow can damage your foundation, siding, landscaping, and more—especially in a state like Minnesota, where harsh weather is the norm.
What You Can Do About It
If your new home didn’t come with gutters, don’t worry—it’s a fixable situation. The best move? Contact the experts.
👉 Call The Gutter Guys – Your go-to gutter installation professionals in Minneapolis and across Minnesota. They specialize in seamless gutter systems that protect your home and enhance curb appeal.
Whether you’re looking to install gutters on your new home or upgrade an old system, Call The Gutter Guys will help you get the job done right.
Final Thoughts
Not getting gutters with your new build might seem like an oversight, but it’s actually a common practice. The good news is, you’re in control—and with the right professionals, adding a top-tier gutter system is easier than ever.
Live in Minneapolis or anywhere in Minnesota? Make sure your new home is protected from the elements.
Call The Gutter Guys and safeguard your investment today.
