Illinois Roofing Practice Exam

Which of these scenarios would least likely result in interior damage if a built-in gutter leaks?

1. A built-in gutter at the eave

2. A built-in gutter at the peak

3. A built-in gutter at the corner

4. A built-in gutter at the valley

The correct answer is: A built-in gutter at the eave

A built-in gutter at the eave is less likely to result in interior damage if it leaks for several reasons. The eave is the lower edge of the roof that usually extends beyond the walls of the home, directing water away from the building's structure. When a built-in gutter is located at the eave, any leaking water typically falls onto the ground rather than flowing back toward the structure, which helps minimize the risk of interior damage. In contrast, gutters positioned at the peak, corner, or valley can funnel water downwards towards interior walls or other critical areas of the roof, increasing the likelihood of leaks leading to moisture intrusion inside the home. These locations often collect more water due to their angles and intersections, making any leaks more critical and more likely to cause damage to the interior. Thus, the placement of a built-in gutter at the eave makes it the best option for reducing the risk of interior water damage.