An eavestrough system receives water down a sloping roof, and passes it through downpipes to storm water drains below. Like any other set of interconnected components, it’s essential these elements are in balance. The roof is the active element, for it collects the water, and passes it down to the eavestrough and drains. It follows the latter passive components must have sufficient capacity to accommodate the flow.

It’s Important the Eavestrough System is Adequate

If the capacity of the eavestrough system is inadequate, the gutters could overflow with the following consequences:

Capillary action could draw the overflow back to the walls, depending on the width of the eaves. The temperature differential could cause condensation inside and encourage mold.

Moreover, the force of water hitting the ground from a height above, could weaken paving or flood the foundations. Eventually, the foundations could subside and the walls begin to crack. The uncontrolled flow of water could  also cause erosion in the garden, and flood the swimming pool with mud depending on the slope of the land. Again, major repair costs could follow.

Not all roofs are the same. We are able to manufacture both 5” and 6” eavestrough systems on site. The nature of the roof will determine which is best.

The Characteristics of a Roof Determine Gutter Size

# The square feet of roof determine the amount of water it collects, but according to the intensity of the rain too.

Hence, large building owners such as municipalities, commercial shopping malls, and churches often opt for our wider 6” eavestrough systems.

# The slope of the roof influences the speed at which the water rushes down to the gutters. The intensity of the rain itself also adds impetus. Calgary thunderstorms can be severe. If the water runs off at high speed, it can shoot past the eavestrough in surprising volumes.

# The nature of the roofing material slows down, or speeds up the flow of water too. Our 5” gutters are generally adequate for asphalt shingles on houses. However, we often recommend a 6” eavestrough system for rubber and metal roof types. Corrugated roofs concentrate the flow even more.

The nature of a roof has a definite bearing on eavestrough system width, and the number of downpipes. You can speak to Valiant Exteriors Ltd in Calgary and surrounds, for professional advice in confidence. If you need maintenance, repairs, or replacement of your eavestroughing and siding, we will gladly visit your site and quote.