Gutter Styles
K-style Gutters
K-style gutters have a rectangular shape. They’re the most widely used gutter shape on the market today. They mimic the colonial style crown molding. They fit well into modern homes. They’re much easier to install than half round gutters, because of their flat sides. K-style gutters come in many different sizes, lengths, and colors, so there are many options to choose from. They can work with almost any home because of their versatility.
Generally speaking, K-style gutters have two times the capacity of half round gutters of the same width. They’re the better style for the seamless option. The K-style can be cut into seamless lengths right on site. Seamless gutters are less likely to leak and experience other gutter problems, so they are a very attractive option. An astonishing 80% of residential homes currently have the K-style gutter system.
At Simply Gutters your gutter will gradually slope down to the location of the downspout to allow it to drain in the desired location. Without the proper slope your gutters won’t drain efficiently possibly leaving behind pools of water that’ll lead to an increase in mosquitoes or overflowing in heavy rains.
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With a few calculations we can figure out what size your home needs and start designing your new gutter system or working with an already existing one.
Half Round Gutters
Half round gutters look just as they sound. They resemble a pipe that’s been cut in half. Their round shape works best for homes with rounded roof lines. These gutters offer a more distinctive appeal for those looking for a traditional look.
Half round gutters come with single side as well as double side curled top outer edges making them more suitable for older homes with extravagant designs. Installation of these gutters requires special tools and hangers this attributes to the higher price point.
Gutter Sizes
A residential home typically installs 5” or 6” gutters. A one foot run of 5” gutter holds 1.2 gal. of water. A one foot run of 6” gutter holds 2.0 gal. of water. The difference between the two is 40% more water being collected. Rainwater shouldn’t overrun the front edge of the gutter. Keep in mind that a steep pitched roof can accelerate rainwater velocity if you notice water still coming over the edge with a 5” gutter upgrading to a 6” is recommended. That 6” gutter will take on 40% more water than the 5”, meaning less is going to the base of your home.
Two factors that determine what size is right for your home; roof pitch and maximum amount of rainfall in your area. The U.S. Weather Bureau documents the maximum rainfall in your area. The right size gutter system is one that can efficiently handle the amount of water coming off your roof. With a few calculations we can figure out what size your home needs and start designing your new gutter system or working with an already existing one.
