Gutters
Gutter Materials | Gutter Features
Gutter Construction
Sectional vs. Seamless
A seamless gutter is continuous, with no breaks. A sectional gutter comes in pieces and is installed in separate components, forming independent systems from one another. It isn’t wise for someone who isn’t experienced in gutter installation to put up a seamless gutter; more often than not it can only be done through a contractor. However, you can purchase 20 ft. long sections of gutters and install a sectional system yourself. The drawback to a system like this is that leaks can occur since there are many breaks in the gutters and many places for water to escape. However, it is lest costly than a seamless system.
Sizes and Shapes
Gutters come in all forms and dimensions and can be custom made. However, there two models that are the most common and are manufactured by most companies. The first is U-shaped. Simply shaped like a slightly elongated semi-circle, it is perhaps the simplest form of gutter. The other is K-shaped. Its front section looking like a K, it has no particular advantage over the U-shaped. The K-shaped is alleged to have more structural strength and therefore can withstand heavier loads such as snow and leaves. However, the U-shaped is simpler and easier to clean.
| K-Shape | U-Shape |
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The most widely available sizes for gutters are 4 inches, 5 inches, and 6 inches (the number one type of gutter is 5 inch K-shaped). Downspout size is also a consideration, with most being 2X3 or 3X4. The larger the downspout, the more minimized the problem of clogging becomes.
Gutters come in a variety of colors, and the widest selection of hues (25) comes in aluminum. The color is baked on at the factory and is extremely durable. The most common colors are white and brown, although white will be resistant to damage from the sun more than a darker color. Copper gutters are also available, though they are much more expensive than standard gutters. Some companies offer aluminum gutters made to look like copper at a greatly reduced cost.








