Rain gutters are an essential element of your roofing system, catching rainwater from your roof and directing it into downspouts and away from your home. When it comes to selecting the right gutters, sizing is critical for efficient operation. To ensure you install the appropriate size gutters for your unique property, here’s a helpful guide.

Factors that Determine How Large a Gutter System You’ll Need

Before installing new rain gutters, a gutter installation company will first determine how large of a system you need. If the sizing isn’t correct, your gutters will be inefficient at directing water away from your home, and you’ll run the risk of landscape damage, foundational problems, and flooding.

The most common residential gutter sizes are five-inch K-style gutters or 6-inch half-rounds. To determine the appropriate gutter size, a professional will first calculate the square footage of your drainage area. Next, they’ll factor in both the pitch of your roof and the maximum rainfall intensity. Finally, they’ll multiply the drainage area by the roof pitch and rainfall intensity to find the adjusted square footage and determine your appropriate gutter size.

How to Account for Above Average Rainfall

If you live in an area that receives above-average rainfall, there will be some additional considerations to make to ensure your home stays dry. Most homeowners will include add-ons, such as additional downspouts to their gutter system. Downspouts work by carrying rainwater from the gutter to ground level, where it’s directed away from your home’s foundation.

Ideally, you want to have downspouts installed approximately every 40 feet, but this can vary depending upon expected rainfall. The additional downspouts will help prevent everything from water damage to your roof and foundation to moldy shingles to excess window moisture and interior wall damage.
 

If you need new rain gutters for your home, put your trust in the professionals at Advanced Seamless Inc. in West Salem, WI. For over 28 years, this reputable company has strived to be the best gutter service in the industry, providing competitive prices and a complete money-back guarantee. Whether you need gutter installation or comprehensive gutter maintenance and repair, they’ll ensure your system is working effectively for years to come. To request a free quote, give them a call today at (608) 786-2929 or visit them online for more information.