Finding the right size gutters for your home can be challenging. The last thing you want to do is guess which gutter size you need and end up wasting your money on the wrong size. In this blog post, the gutter experts at Mooney & Moses offer tips for sizing your gutters.
Gutter Sizing Factors
Five-inch K-style gutters or 6-inch half-rounds are the most common residential gutter sizes. However, if your home has a big, steep roof or is in an area prone to frequent heavy downpours, consider wider gutters and extra downspouts to prevent excess rainwater from overflowing.
The gutter size you need depends on various factors, including your roof’s pitch, the amount of rainfall your area receives and your roof’s square footage.
Roof Pitch
When accounting for your roof’s steepness, you must calculate its pitch. You can do so with a tape measure and a two-foot level.
To obtain the “12-inch run” measurement, place one end of the level against your roof and level it. Next, use the tape measure to measure the distance between the middle of the level and the roof below it.
Rainfall
The U.S. Weather Bureau calculates the maximum possible rainfall for certain areas in a five-minute duration. The higher the amount, the bigger the gutter must be to withstand a heavy downpour. Reference this table to determine this figure for your location.
Roof Size
Your roof likely has different sections known as gutter drainage areas. You must measure each section individually to determine your roof’s total surface area. Helpful tip: Multiply each section by length and width.
Downspout Sizing
Downspouts are the parts of the gutter that move water away from your home. Failing to place your downspouts correctly leaves your foundation susceptible to pooling water and erosion.
There are three main downspout shapes: box, spiral and round. If you need box downspouts, you’ll choose either 2-inch by 3-inch or 3-inch by 4-inch. Round downspout sizes are typically 3–6 inches in diameter.
Homeowners should plan for one downspout per approximately 30 linear feet of gutters. You may require additional downspouts if you live somewhere with heavy rainfall or have a home with a more complex gutter system.
Whatever the case, it’s worth contacting a professional to ensure you get the ideal size downspouts in the best positions.
Trust Our Gutter Contractors in Cincinnati
At Mooney & Moses, we provide unmatched gutter installation in Cincinnati. Whether you want to prevent issues like roof leaks or shield your home more effectively from water damage, you can count on us for quality work and gutters that will last.
We also specialize in seamless gutter installation and install gutter guards to help you protect your investment for years to come.
Don’t make the mistake of hiring just any gutter contractor. We have over 65 years of industry experience, and we’re ready to put that experience to work for you. Let us handle your next gutter installation.
Call (513) 341-8918 today to schedule a gutter installation in Cincinnati.
