Rain gutter: Difference between revisions

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A rain gutter (also known as eaves trough, eaves channel^[1] guttering or simply as a gutter) is a narrow channel, or trough, forming the component of a roof system which collects and diverts rainwater shed by the roof.

The main purpose of a rain gutter is to protect a building's foundation by channeling water away from its base. They also help to reduce erosion, prevent leaks in basements and crawlspaces,^[2] protect painted surfaces by reducing exposure to water,^[3] and provide a means to collect rainwater for later use.

Rain gutters can be constructed from a variety of materials, including galvanised steel, painted steel, copper, painted aluminium, PVC (and other plastics), concrete, stone, and wood, but on residential homes are commonly constructed from aluminum, steel, copper, or vinyl^[4].

Water collected by a rain gutter is fed, usually via a downspout, from the roof edge to the base of the building where it is either discharged or collected.^[5] A collection system strategy for water carried from rain gutters may include a rain barrel or a cistern.^[6]

Different styles of gutter, known as profiles, are produced.

A box gutter is a deep gutter which is concealed within the structure of the roof.^[5]

A popular variety of rain gutter is "Seamless". This product is created, on site, in long individual lengths of gutter to suit roof edge conditions, thereby reducing seams along the length of the gutter. Seamless gutters are available in various shapes, sizes, and finishes.^[7]

Rain gutters can be equipped with gutter screens, louvers or solid hoods to allow water from the roof to flow through, while reducing passage of roof debris into the gutter.^[8]

Clogged gutters can cause water leakage into the house as the water backs up. Clogged gutters can also lead to stagnant water build up which allows mosquitoes to breed and also allow grasses and weeds to grow in the gutter.^[9]

Gutters in colder climates also suffer the effects of freezing. However this can be mitigated through the use of heating cables placed in the trays that become activated in freezing weather.^[10]

• Chantlate
• Cornice
• Rain chain

• "Gutter" in 1911 Britannica
• Ask the Builder on seamless vs traditional gutters
• How To Install A Rain Gutter on installing a rain gutter
• Gutter And Downspout Cleaning on cleaning and maintaining gutters