One of the most important aspects of your home’s roof is the gutter system you have installed. The majority of professionally installed gutters today are seamless gutters, meaning they are not made from many small sections joined together by miters. Instead, seamless gutters are custom-created on site and are only joined at the corners. Take a few moments to learn more about seamless gutters along with why the size of gutters or downspouts is important to consider.
The Difference Between 5” and 6” Gutters
While there’s only an inch in size difference, 6” gutters can handle diverting up to 40% more water than 5” gutters. While 5” gutters are the standard for typical one story homes, larger gutters may be needed depending on circumstances. The type of material your roof is made of will affect how quickly this water reaches your gutters. For instance, homes with roofing materials like metal or slate will shed water much faster than asphalt roofing shingles. This could cause water to build up in 5” gutters quickly, potentially leading to overflowing and localized flooding around the home. Among other things, flooding can damage your home’s foundation, leading to expensive repairs in the future.
Downspout Sizes
Larger gutters will require larger downspouts to accommodate the increased water capacity. As a general rule, there should be at least one downspout for every 20 feet of roof gutter. Contact a trusted local roofing and gutter contractor to schedule an inspection. This will give you a better idea of cost estimates and what the full scope of work will be.
When to Invest in Larger Gutters
Homes which see an above-average amount of rainfall should be the first to consider investing in a larger gutter system. Also, homes with extreme angles on the slope will increase the rate at which water is brought to the gutters. If you’re finding a lot of standing water around the sides of your home, it may be time to think about larger gutters.
To learn more about aluminum seamless gutters, contact Allstate Exteriors & Restoration Services. Our team is dedicated to providing superior service and quality results. Call us to schedule an inspection and discuss upgrading your gutter system today.
