Gutters play a valuable role in the performance of your roofing system, not to mention your house as a whole. However, there are considerations apart from cleanliness that enable your gutters and gutter covers to function as they should. Read on as Gutter Helmet® of Western North Carolina talks about gutter sizing, and why getting it right is crucial for your home.
It’s All About the Fit
As your gutter system relies on precision to function properly, ill-fitting gutters are bound to underperform. That said, it’s in your best interest to ensure the proper size is used for your house. Gutter sizes range from four to eight inches in width, and there are three major factors that determine what size of gutters you should use.
Roof Area
The size of your gutters should be proportional to how large the area of your roof is. Since larger roofs collect more rain, it’s only fitting to install equally large gutters on it.
Pitch Factor
Roof pitch indicates the steepness of your roof. You can determine roof pitch by going up to your attic where the underside of the roof is. You will need a foot-long level and a tape measure. Take your level so that it rests on the support beam and against the underside of the roof. Keep adjusting until it’s level. Next, evaluate the run line or horizontal pitch by hooking the tape measure to the end of the level and determining where the 12-inch mark is. Lastly, determine the rise or vertical pitch by measuring the upper edge of the level up to the underside of your roof using a tape measure.
Most homes have a low pitch of 4:12, while some will have a steep pitch of 9:12. Keep in mind that the steeper the roof, the more wind-blown rain it collects, and the larger the gutters should be.
Rainfall
Gutter size also depends on how heavy the rainfall is in your area. The heavier it is, the larger the gutters should be. The typical residential gutter is five to six inches wide, but your gutter installer will still determine if these standards are applicable considering your roof area, roof pitch and rainfall rate.
It’s important to determine the correct gutters and gutter covers sizing for the optimization of your home. Gutter Helmet of Western North Carolina ensures excellent workmanship in every job we take on. Calll us at (828) 237-3001. We serve Mill Springs, North Carolina.
