CMT CONTRACTORS

Gutter Knowledge

 

Types of Gutters

A correctly installed gutter system will increase the efficiency of water transfer from roof to drainage system. This helps to maintain house structure by eliminating problems often caused by leaking or badly positioned gutters. Gutters do not need to be replaced often. Regularly clear gutters of debris, repair any loose joints as soon as you notice them, and remember that some materials — cast iron, for example — require painting.

 

Recycling Water
Rainwater is usually directed underground, but it can be recycled. This can be done by collecting it in a rain barrel positioned below a gutter downspout, or with a system of water recycling for use in the household plumbing system.

 

Materials

Gutters are made from a variety of materials, each with different strengths, appearances, and costs. There may be regulations in historic areas about replacing gutters, so check these if they may apply to you before you buy new gutters.

 

Aluminum 
Lightweight. Joining systems vary. Continuous gutters (without joints) can be made on-site by specialists to suit your requirements.

 

Plastic (Vinyl) 
Lightweight, and easy to work with. Sections clip together. Requires only minimal maintenance.

 

Copper 
Durable and easy to install. With time, the bright finish weathers to an attractive verdigris (green patina).

 

Cast Iron
Traditional and hardwearing, but extremely heavy. Iron needs to be painted. Sections are joined with mastic, nuts, and bolts.

 

Profiles

Most gutters have a rounded or a squared shape, but several profiles are available. If you are replacing a whole gutter system, your main concerns will be appearance, cost.

 

Half-Round

Simple rounded profile

 

Box

Square profile

 

Square Line

Decorative alternative to half-round

 

K Style

Sometimes attached directly to fascia

 

Gutter Systems

Several different sections fit together to drain rainwater quickly and efficiently. Although the method of joining these elements varies depending on the gutter material used, the components are similar. Shown here is a basic vinyl system. Your system may need some or all of the components shown here.

 

Splash Block
Most downspouts empty on to a splash block that directs water away from your foundation