The history of roof eavestrough systems goes back a way in time. The earliest written records are from the Roman era, when they introduced the technology to England to keep rain water off their temple walls. However, their technology was limited to what they could-hand beat out of copper sheets. But different roof gutter shapes evolved later over time.
The Basic Job of Every Eavestrough
An eavestrough captures rain water flowing down a roof surface, and leads it away to a drainage point. For this system to work properly:
- The gutter system must have sufficient capacity to cope with top-end demand.
- But it must also be sufficiently robust to cope with the weight of snow and ice.
- This requires a secure method of attaching the eavestrough to the roof edge.
- The guttering must slope gently to lead the moisture to the discharge down pipe.
- The gutter profile must have an internal finish allowing a smooth water flow.
Different Roof Gutters on Calgary Houses
Cast iron, half round gutters reached England in the 18th century, making mass-production possible for the first time. This eliminated the hand-beaten process, making them the first of the different gutter types freely available. Fiber-reinforced cement versions followed. However, the material was brittle, and fractured easily when dropped, and so there had to be a better way.
UPVC Un-Plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride
UPVC rain water pipes, guttering and down pipes using plastic materials were all the rage in the 1970’s, and soon took care of at least 70% of all rainwater systems according to Wikipedia. They were also easy to clean, if you could get up there.
However, two decades later folk realized they were not the long-term solution they hoped for. That’s because they eventually hardened, started leaking at the joints, and began to warp away from their smooth lines.
Different Roof Gutters in Extruded Aluminum
A new technology arrived in the form of seamless aluminum gutters that fitters extruded on site from rolls of flat material. By the turn of the 21st century, these were all the rage because they were strong but lightweight, and modernized the home.
The earlier types of these strikingly different roof gutters were D-type eavestroughs, that recalled the earlier, half-round shapes. However the current K-style / OG gutter versions add a more stylish look, with the added advantage of greater strength.
Still Confused – Not Sure What’s Right for You?
Speak to Valiant Exteriors if your home or business is anywhere in Calgary. We offer free, impartial advice over the phone or by email. You’ll find our rates reasonable and fair, and our clients rate our service excellent.
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