How to Measure Gutter Size: A Step-by-Step Guide

Guttering if your home's first line of defence against the elements, preventing water damage and helping to keep your home dry. As such, the correct sized guttering is imperative. But what sizes are available, and which is most suitable for your home? This blog aims to answer these questions and guide you through choosing the most appropriate guttering system.

Why Gutter Size Matters

Your guttering needs to be capable of handling the correct amount of water for your home and the area in which you live. For example, a large, detached house will require a larger capacity gutter than a smaller or terraced home. Also, if you live in an area which experiences high levels of precipitation, you may require a larger capacity gutter than someone who lives in an area with low levels of rainfall. As such, choosing the right size of your gutter is imperative in providing the right level of protection for your home. With sizes varying from 112mm to 170mm, which size gutter is best for your home?

Common Gutter Sizes in the UK

Standard Gutter Size for Residential Properties

Here at National Plastics, we offer four standard gutter sizes which are perfect for residential properties:

• 112mm - this is the most popular choice of guttering for small to medium sized homes. It is usually in a traditional half round design, which suits all styles and ages of property.
• 114mm - this is a slightly deeper half round gutter which is ideal for larger, detached homes.
• 117mm our 117mm gutter is a contemporary square profile, which is perfect for modern homes. Its large capacity also means it is ideal for larger buildings or those which experience highs levels of rainfall.
• 120mm Ogee - an Ogee gutter offers a unique S shaped profile, which provides a timeless finish. It's deep 120mm capacity also means it can handle large amounts of water.

Gutter Size for Commercial Properties

Commercial properties are usually larger than residential properties, and as such will need a more substantial gutter.

• 170mm super deep - our 170mm super deep gutter is our largest profile and is ideally suited to large, commercial buildings.

How to Measure Your Existing Gutter Size

If you're replacing your guttering system, the easiest way to get accurate measurements is to measure your existing gutter.

Step 1: Measure the Width of the Gutter

Firstly, measure the width of your gutter, from the front of your home to the back.

Step 2: Measure the Length and Depth of the Gutter

Next, measure the gutter lengthways, from one side of your home to the other side. It is always a good idea to measure the depth of your existing gutter. If it is performing well, it is the ideal depth and capacity for your home.

Step 3: Check the Gutter Profile

Finally, have a look at the profile of your gutter. Is it half round, half square, or Ogee? You can then decide whether it suits your home or if you'd prefer a different look and finish.

How to Choose the Right Gutter Size

There are numerous factors that can affect the size of gutter you need, with roof pitch and rainfall being just two.

Roof Pitch and Gutter Size

The pitch of your roof will affect the speed at which rain flows off it - the steeper the pitch, the faster the rain will flow. As such, your guttering needs to be capable of handling high levels of fast flowing water. If you have a steep pitched roof, you should probably consider the larger sized 114mm or 117mm gutter profiles.

Rainfall and Gutter Capacity

The average rainfall in the area you live will have an impact on the gutter size you choose. You may live in a location which experiences very high levels of rainfall, in which case you should select a gutter with a large capacity. Alternatively, if your home is in an area which has very little rainfall, a standard sized gutter should be sufficient.

Signs You Need to Upgrade Your Gutter Size

If you're unsure as to whether you need to increase the size of your gutter, there are a few things you can look for:

• Overflowing during rain - this is the most obvious sign. If your guttering is overflowing during heavy rain, it means it can not cope with the amount of water and therefore the capacity should be increased.
• Guttering becomes frequently clogged - smaller gutters may easily become clogged with debris, dirt, and leaves. If this happens regularly, it may be a sign that your gutters need upgrading.
• Foundation damage - Another sign your guttering if not the right size, is water pooling around the foundations of your home. If you spot this, it may be time to increase the capacity of your gutters before further damage is done.

Conclusion: Measuring and Choosing the Right Gutter Size

By choosing the right size and capacity of gutter, you are helping to protect your home against rainfall for many years to come. Hopefully this blog has helped to provide you with some guidance on how to go about doing this. However, if you have any queries or require further information about how to choose the best gutter, call our expert, knowledgeable team today on 0800 22 77 77.