The size of a guttering system plays an important role in protecting homes from rainwater damage. Choosing the right gutter size ensures water flows efficiently away from the roof, avoiding serious problems such as flooding, leaks, and erosion.
Fitting guttering isn’t something that most homeowners would do, especially if they live in a distinctive or period property – so they rely on professionals to help them source and install the right products. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common gutter sizes and their uses.
Common gutter sizes
Gutter sizes vary based on the type of building, location, and expected rainfall levels, but there are several standard dimensions that can help guide your customer’s decision.
British standard for guttering
In the UK, the British Standard for guttering, specifically BS EN 607 and BS EN 1462, outlines key dimensions and specifications.
For residential properties, the most common gutter size is between 110mm and 125mm in diameter. Larger buildings or commercial properties may require wider gutters to accommodate heavier rain flow.
Types of gutters
There are several types of gutters, with varying sizes, uses and benefits. Below are some of the most common options in the UK and their sizing options.
Square
Square gutters are popular due to their modern look and higher capacity compared to other shapes. They normally range from 100mm to 120mm in width to allow for water flow, making them a good choice in areas with heavy rainfall.
Half round
Half-round gutters are commonly used for traditional properties and is the most common shape. Their rounded shape provides a sleek aesthetic, although their capacity is slightly lower than square gutters. The standard size for half-round gutters is typically 112mm. For properties in low to moderate rainfall areas, half-round gutters can be a great option.
Ogee
Ogee gutters have a decorative profile that adds a touch of elegance to homes, often with a high front edge that hides the tile line. These gutters are typically available in 135mm and offer enhanced water flow for their size because of their shape. Those who want a balance between aesthetics and functionality, might opt for an ogee gutter.
Commercial
Commercial buildings tend to use larger gutters to manage increased water flow from larger roofs. Common commercial gutter sizes are around 150mm or more, depending on the specific needs of the building and its location. This larger size ensures rainwater is efficiently diverted away from the building, protecting its foundation.
All types of gutters require thorough cleaning and maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Homeowners can find insights on keeping gutters functioning efficiently in our recent guides: ‘How to clean your gutters’ and ‘How often should you clean your gutters?’ to prevent overflow and blockage.
Gutter costs
The cost of gutters varies based on material, size, and style. Below is a brief overview of potential price ranges. Keep in mind that these prices are for the gutters themselves and do not include installation costs.
- Plastic gutters
Cost-effective and low-maintenance, typically ranging from £5 to £10 per metre.
- Metal gutters
Priced higher due to durability, starting at around £15 to £25 per metre for aluminium or steel options.
- Commercial sizes
Larger gutters are naturally more costly, generally ranging from £20 to £30 per metre.
How do I know my gutter size?
Choosing the right gutter size for a property involves measuring and assessing the area’s needs. Follow these steps to identify the gutter size accurately:
- Measure the width
Use a tape measure to find the width of the existing gutter or the area where the new one will be installed. Most residential homes will use a gutter size between 110mm and 125mm.
- Assess rainfall and roof size
Areas with high rainfall and larger roofs need gutters with more capacity.
- Consider gutter type
Different types of gutters offer different capacities. For example, ogee gutters handle more water than half-rounds of the same size.
Signs a gutter is too small
If a gutter is too small, homeowner may experience the following:
- Overflowing during rainfall
This is one of the most common signs of undersized gutters, especially at the corners.
- Frequent clogs
Small gutters may clog more easily due to limited capacity.
- Erosion around foundation
Insufficient guttering can lead to water pooling near the foundation of the property, causing erosion and potentially damaging its structure.
Ensuring the gutter size is substantial is therefore crucial for the health of a property long-term.
Should gutters be wider than the roof?
Generally, gutters should be positioned to capture all rainwater running off the roof. This typically means that they don’t need to be wider than the roof’s edge but should extend slightly beyond the roofline to collect water effectively.
If a roof has a steep slope, customers may want to consider larger gutters or additional downspouts to handle larger amounts of water.
Replacing gutters
When replacing gutters, homeowners might consider upgrading to a size and type better suited to their property’s needs, especially if homeowners have noticed overflowing or clogging issues with their current system.
Eurocell offers a wide range of guttering options in various sizes, styles, and needs, from square and half-round to ogee and commercial options.
For minor issues, a full replacement might not be needed – our guttering repair guide covers easy DIY solutions.
How to choose a gutter size
To select the correct gutter size, speak to your customer about the following:
- Roof size and pitch
A larger roof or a steep pitch increases the amount of water that runs off the roof, requiring a larger gutter.
- Location and rainfall
Properties in areas with high rainfall should opt for wider gutters.
- Aesthetic preference
Choose a style that complements their property, such as ogee for decorative appeal or square for a more modern look.
Choosing the right gutter size is essential for rainwater management and protecting homes from damage. By understanding standard gutter sizes and assessing your customer’s specific needs, you can help them avoid damage to their property.
For quality guttering solutions and expert advice, get in touch with the team at Eurocell today and explore our range of guttering products.