Planning Your Summer Remodel? Why Gutters Should Be Your First Priority

Summer in Minnesota is the unofficial season of the “Home Transformation.” Whether you are installing a new cedar deck in Minnetonka or refreshing your siding in Maple Grove, the excitement of a remodel is unparalleled. However, many homeowners make a critical mistake: they treat their gutter system as the final “finishing touch.”

At Rain Master Seamless Gutters, we’ve seen beautiful (and expensive) summer remodels compromised within a single season because the water management system wasn’t prioritized. Here is why gutters should be at the top of your summer 2026 remodeling checklist.

1. Protect Your New Siding Investment

If you are investing in modern James Hardie siding or high-end LP SmartSide, the last thing you want is “back-splash” staining. Old, leaky gutters or poorly placed downspouts allow water to overshoot the gutter and splash dirt and tannins onto your brand-new exterior. By installing custom-fit seamless gutters first, you ensure your new siding stays pristine for decades.

2. Landscaping and Hardscaping Insurance

Are you puting in a new paver patio or expensive perennials this summer? A single Minnesota thunderstorm can wash away fresh mulch and erode the sand base of new pavers if your gutters aren’t functioning. Moving water away from the house effectively is the best “insurance policy” you can buy for your new outdoor living space.

3. Structural Integration with New Roofing

If a new roof is part of your summer plans, it is the perfect time to upgrade to a 6-inch seamless gutter system. In 2026, heavier rainfall patterns have made standard 5-inch gutters less effective. Integrating your gutters with your roofing project ensures that the drip edge and fascia are perfectly aligned, preventing “behind-the-gutter” rot.

4. Avoid the “Construction Crunch”

By August, Minnesota gutter installers often face a weeks-long backlog as homeowners rush to prepare for fall. Planning your gutter upgrade at the start of your summer remodel protects your home during heavy June and July rains, instead of leaving your foundation vulnerable during the peak of storm season.

FAQ

Can I install gutters myself during a remodel?

While DIY kits are available, they are sectional. For Minnesota’s climate, we highly recommend professional seamless gutters. They are roll-formed on-site to the exact length of your home, eliminating the seams that eventually leak and damage your new remodel.

What gutter color is best for 2026 home trends?

We are seeing a major shift toward Tricorn Black and Royal Brown. These colors complement the “Modern Forest” and “Industrial Farmhouse” aesthetics currently popular in Minnesota.

Should I get gutter guards with my new gutters?

If your remodel includes new landscaping, gutter guards are a must. They prevent clogs that cause overflows, which can drown your new plants and wash away expensive mulch.

How long does a typical installation take?

Our Rain Master crews complete most residential projects in the Twin Cities in a single day, allowing us to work around your other contractors with ease.