Rain gutters are an essential piece of equipment to protect your eaves and the walls of your home from staining and rot. But these useful structures weren’t always around to keep rainwater away from the walls. Although they have their roots in early civilization, it has taken many years and modern developments to create the effective rain management systems we know today.

Ancient Civilization

The basic idea of moving unwanted water first manifested in the ancient Indus Valley civilization. Between 3000 and 1500 BC, gutters were built using burnt clay tiles to channel wastewater out of streets and other areas. These were not roof gutters, but they were a very early attempt to serve a similar purpose.

Rome

Thousands of years later, starting in about 27 BC, the Romans began building roads that peaked in the center. This helped waste to wash off to gutters on either side. Later, in 47 AD, they brought the idea of gutters to Britain.

Britain

Long after adopting the idea of gutters from the Romans, the British people were given a shove to develop the idea further. In 1066, the Norman invasion of Britain led to extensive reconstruction of many buildings. Roofs were remade from stone with working gutters. Downspouts were a later development; instead, British buildings were commonly built with gargoyles, which channeled and “spat” the water away from the building. In 1240, the Tower of London was the first British building with a working downspout.

America

From 1710 to 1750, homes in the American colonies were popularly constructed with gutters. These were created with two long planks of wood set in a V shape. Two hundred years later, the growing use of metal rolling machines would shift the landscape, making steel gutters the most popular option. During World War II metal was needed for the war effort, so the plastic industry advanced dramatically, creating one of the two rain gutter options widely used today. The other option, aluminum, became more popular in the early 60s thanks to its light weight.

Today, you can find gutters in a wide range of styles to suit the specific needs of your home. These attractive, effective modern options are the result of thousands of years of history and development, beginning with a few simple clay tiles.

Amakua Rain Gutters has spent 12 years installing and maintaining rain gutters for clients across Oahu. They offer convenient service from experienced professionals who will ensure your home is protected from water staining and rot. To arrange new gutters or gutter cleaning, call them at (808) 258-6994 or reach out online.