Rain Diverter Guide: Fix Gutter Problems

A rain diverter (also called a roof diverter, water diverter, or gutter diverter) is a device installed on your roof or gutter system to redirect water flow away from specific areas. Unlike gutters that collect water along the entire roof edge, diverters target problem spots where water concentration causes issues.

How Rain Diverters Work

Rain diverters use simple physics to redirect water flow:

Common Problem Areas Rain Diverters Address

• Above doorways and entryways: Prevents water from dumping on people entering/exiting
• Roof valleys that terminate at walls: Stops concentrated water from damaging siding
• Where roof meets sidewall: Prevents water infiltration at critical junctions
• Gutter corners and downspout inlets: Manages water concentration points
• Above windows and garages: Protects vulnerable openings from water intrusion

Not all rain diverters are the same. Each type serves a specific purpose, and choosing the right one depends on your particular water problem.

1. Kickout Flashing (Diverter Flashing)

Kickout flashing is installed where a roof edge meets a sidewall. It's the most important type of rain diverter for preventing water damage.

Missing or improperly installed kickout flashing is one of the most common causes of hidden water damage in homes. Water that gets behind siding can rot wall sheathing, promote mold growth, and cause structural damage before you notice any visible signs.

2. Roof Deflectors (Door Diverters)

These are L-shaped or triangular devices mounted above doorways, windows, or other areas where you want to prevent water from falling directly.

3. Splash Guards

Splash guards are barriers installed inside gutters or at gutter corners to prevent water from overshooting during heavy rain.

4. Gutter Spout Diverters

These devices attach to downspouts or gutter outlets to redirect water for specific purposes, like filling rain barrels or directing water further from the foundation.

5. Valley Diverters

Valley diverters handle concentrated water flow where two roof planes meet, especially when the valley terminates at a wall or gutter.

Rain diverters can develop problems over time, especially in coastal environments. Here are the most common issues we see in Myrtle Beach and how to address them:

Problem 1: Corrosion and Rust

Problem 2: Improper Sizing or Placement

Problem 3: Debris Accumulation

Problem 4: Separation or Loosening

Problem 5: Missing Kickout Flashing

Not every home needs rain diverters, but certain situations make them essential. Here's how to know if your Myrtle Beach home would benefit:

Signs You Need a Rain Diverter

Roof Configurations That Often Need Diverters

Certain roof designs are more prone to water concentration issues:

• Steep roofs: Water gains more velocity, harder for gutters to capture
• Complex rooflines: Multiple valleys and intersections create concentration points
• Large roof areas draining to small gutters: Overwhelms gutter capacity
• Roofs without overhangs above doors: No natural protection for entryways
• Two-story homes: Upper roof water can cascade onto lower roof or ground

When Kickout Flashing Is Mandatory

Building codes now require kickout flashing in specific situations:

• Any roof-to-wall intersection where the roof drains toward the wall
• Where step flashing meets horizontal flashing at wall terminations
• Above any wall surface that can be damaged by water (siding, stucco, etc.)

Homeowners often wonder whether they need a rain diverter or a gutter extension. The answer depends on where your water problem occurs.

Understanding the Difference

When to Choose a Rain Diverter

• Water is overshooting or bypassing your gutters
• You need to protect an entryway, window, or door from water
• Water is getting behind siding at roof-wall junctions
• Roof valleys are dumping concentrated water in problem areas
• Gutter corners can't handle water volume during storms

When to Choose a Gutter Extension

• Water from downspouts is pooling near your foundation
• Downspout discharge is eroding landscaping
• You need to direct water to a specific drainage area
• Basement or crawlspace moisture issues from foundation saturation

When You Need Both

Many Myrtle Beach homes benefit from both solutions as part of a complete water management system:

Some rain diverter installations are DIY-friendly, while others require professional expertise. Here's how to know which applies to your situation:

DIY-Friendly Installations

Professional Installation Required

Risks of Improper DIY Installation

We frequently repair damage caused by DIY rain diverter installations:

• Roof leaks: Improper penetrations or sealant failure
• Redirected problems: Moving water damage to a different location
• Code violations: Installations that don't meet building requirements
• Voided warranties: Improper work can void roof warranties
• Personal injury: Falls from ladders or roofs

Proper maintenance keeps your rain diverters working effectively and extends their lifespan. Here's a seasonal maintenance schedule for Myrtle Beach homeowners:

Seasonal Maintenance Schedule

Signs Your Diverter Needs Attention

• Water bypassing the diverter during rain
• Visible rust, corrosion, or deterioration
• Gaps between diverter and mounting surface
• Staining or damage downstream from the diverter
• Strange sounds (rattling, dripping) during rain
• Debris buildup that doesn't clear naturally

How do you know if your rain diverter has failed or isn't doing its job? Watch for these warning signs:

1. Water Stains on Siding

Vertical streaking or staining below roof-wall junctions indicates kickout flashing failure. Water is getting behind your siding instead of being directed into the gutter.

2. Soft or Spongy Siding

Press on siding below roof-wall intersections. If it feels soft or gives under pressure, water damage has likely occurred behind the siding from diverter failure.

3. Peeling Paint Near Roof Edges

Paint failure near where diverters should be protecting often indicates chronic moisture exposure from improper water management.

4. Gutter Overflow at Specific Spots

If one section of your gutter consistently overflows while others handle water fine, the splash guard or diverter at that location has failed or is inadequate.

5. Water Pooling at Entry Doors

If you're still getting wet entering your home despite having a door diverter, it's either too small, improperly angled, or has shifted out of position.

6. Foundation Erosion in Specific Areas

Localized erosion or mulch displacement indicates concentrated water flow that a diverter should be managing but isn't.

7. Visible Rust or Corrosion

Corroded diverters lose structural integrity and effectiveness. Rust holes allow water to pass through instead of being redirected.

8. Separation from Mounting Surface

Gaps between the diverter and roof or wall mean water can flow behind or around the diverter, defeating its purpose.

As Myrtle Beach's 5.0-star rated roofing company, WeatherShield Roofing provides comprehensive water management solutions, including rain diverter installation and repair.

Our Rain Diverter Services

Related Gutter Services

Rain diverters work best as part of a complete gutter system. We also provide:

• Gutter installation - Seamless gutters sized for your roof
• Gutter repair - Fix leaks, sagging, and damage
• Gutter cleaning - Remove debris and maintain flow
• Gutter guard installation - Reduce maintenance needs
• Downspout extensions - Direct water away from foundation

Why Choose WeatherShield?