Managing Water on Historic Structures Without Gutters

Written by Sadie Young, Project Manager at Northern Bedrock Historic Preservation

Historic buildings were often designed to handle water differently than modern structures,

relying on architectural features and materials rather than gutters and downspouts. While it

might seem logical to add modern gutter systems, doing so can alter the historic character of a structure and, in many cases, violate National Register of Historic Places (U.S. National Park Service) guidelines. Instead, preservationists must use traditional and alternative water

management techniques to protect these structures from deterioration.

Why Not Just Add Gutters?

Many historic buildings were never designed to have gutters, and adding them can cause more harm than good. Here’s why:

• Alters Historic Appearance – Gutters and downspouts introduce modern elements that

can obscure original cornices, moldings, or rooflines, compromising architectural

integrity.

• Material Incompatibility – Modern aluminum or vinyl gutters contrast with historic

materials and may cause damage if not properly installed.

• Moisture Trapping – Poorly designed or maintained gutters can actually cause water

damage by trapping moisture against historic wood, brick, or stone.

• NRHP Standards – For the buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places,

modifications must comply with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the

Treatment of Historic Properties, which emphasizes preservation over alteration. Adding

Modern gutters alter the original design intent and may disqualify a structure from

maintaining its historic designation.

Alternative Water Management Strategies

Since gutters weren’t part of the original design, there are other time-tested methods for

directing water away from historic structures:

• Maintain; Improve Roof Overhangs

Many historic buildings have deep eaves or sloped rooflines that naturally shed water

away from the foundation. Keeping these in good condition ensures they function as

intended.

• Check for roof deterioration and repair missing or damaged shingles.

• Maintain historic drip edges to help direct water away from the walls.

• Install Proper Ground Drainage

Water must be directed away from the foundation to prevent erosion and basement

moisture.

• Grading – Ensure the ground slopes away from the structure to prevent water

pooling.

• French Drains – A gravel-lined trench with a perforated pipe can redirect water

underground.

• Splash Blocks or Drainage Channels – Stone or brick runoffs at the base of a

roofline can disperse water without modern downspouts.

• Use Rain Diverters

Metal rain diverters or “drip strips” can be installed under roofing materials to channel

water away from entrances or walkways without altering the structure’s appearance.

• Ideal for doorways, chimneys, or foundation-sensitive areas.

• It can be made from copper, lead-coated copper, or galvanized steel to blend with

historic materials.

• Preserve & Repair Historic Water Features

Some historic sites used built-in stone gutters, catch basins, or surface channels to

control water.

• Uncover and restore original drainage features rather than replacing them.

• Use historically accurate materials when repairs are needed.

• Maintain Porous Surfaces

Historic sites often had gravel, flagstone, or brick pathways that absorbed or directed

water instead of letting it collect.

• Avoid modern concrete or asphalt, which can trap water and increase runoff.

• Repair and maintain existing stone or brick surfaces to ensure they function as

intended.

Conclusion

Preserving historic structures means respecting how they were originally designed to handle

water. While gutters may seem like an easy solution, they compromise historic integrity and

often violate NRHP guidelines. Instead, using traditional water management techniques – like

grading, roof overhangs, rain diverters, and porous materials – keeps buildings dry while

maintaining their historic character.