Why Modern Six-Inch Gutters Make a Difference

In recent years, the demand for six-inch gutters has increased.  Although five-inch gutters are still considered standard size for residential properties, a lot of homeowners are turning to six-inch oversized gutters. 

Six-inch gutters are a full inch bigger than the standard five-inch gutters.  That means that they can handle more debris passing through them than five-inch gutters.  In fact, six-inch gutters can handle up to frosty percent more water passing through than five-inch gutters.

​Six-inch gutters have become quite trendy in recent years, but traditionalists still wonder if a residential home needs oversized gutters.  Read further as we discuss the positive points of six-inch gutters.  We will answer questions like why six-inch gutters make a difference, and if six gutters are the answer to your needs.  

Does Your Home Need Six Inch Gutters?

There are actually many reasons that determine if your house needs six-inch, oversized gutters.  Obviously, the biggest factor would be the size of the roof.  A larger roof can benefit from oversized gutters.

​Take a few simple measurements to figure out the square footage of the roof.  If this is too complicated, call in a specialist that has knowledge of six-inch gutters.  

Roof Pitch

But it is not just the size of your homes’ roof that determines if you need six-inch gutters.  It is also important to consider the pitch of the roof.  If the roof has a steep pitch, it can cause water to run down faster.  This would require an oversized gutter to manage water flow. 

​If your house has a metal roof, you may want to consider six-inch gutters.  Roofs made from metal make the water move at a quicker rate than asphalt.  Therefore, it is recommended that houses with metal roofs use oversized, six-inch gutters, as they can handle the fast-moving water flow.  

Complex Roof Lines

Finally, newer houses have more complex roof lines.  These complex roof lines have a lot of areas where big amounts of water can collect.  So, it stands to reason that six-inch gutters will work better for homes with complex roof lines.  
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There are a few other reasons that six-inch gutters are recommended.  If the upper gutters drain into the lower gutters, then the lower gutters should be oversized to accommodate the increased water flow.  Also, if the gutter is over forty feet long, but can only accommodate one downspout, you should probably upgrade to six-inch gutters.  

How Oversized Gutters Make a Difference

​As mentioned above, oversized, six-inch gutters are great for more modern homes with large roofs or with roofs with a steep pitch.  They can accommodate the water flow better than standard five-inch gutters.  But not every issue can be solved with six-inch gutters.  Your gutters may be stopped up with clogs.  Make sure to contact a gutter specialist today if you are still confused about your gutter needs, and whether you need six-inch gutters.