6” gutters and 3” x 4” down spouts are not a permanent solution, but may minimize issues caused by clogged gutters. The proper choice of gutter protection will permanently solve the problem in most cases.

We know that in order to protect your home, you need to have free flowing gutters. Based on what we know it is not a good idea for either you or somebody else to clean the gutters. So what are the options?

6” Oversized Gutters

Larger gutters are popular down south where the rain is excessive. For the rest of the nation it’s overkill. However, in areas where a large expanse of roof drains into a small gutter, it is a good idea. In severe situations where the gutter is 2 feet or less, a scupper would be a better fix for the problem. A scupper is essentially a large square bucket that holds a large volume of water due to its depth.

Oversized down spouts

Adding 3” x 4” oversize downspouts make more sense in any part of the country. In excessive rain areas, it helps the already stressed gutters handle draining water out of the system quicker.

It serves the same purpose in the northern climates with an added benefit of minimizing ice formation in the gutter. It takes longer for ice to build up in the larger 3×4 down spouts to work its way up to the gutters and then overflow. However, you will still have the issue of ice build up due to snow accumulating in the gutters and the layering of refreezing ice melt coming off of the roof.

Gutter Protection

Larger gutters and down spouts may help issues with water overflow, but they will not eliminate the problem. Moderate amount of trees can still clog the larger gutters and down spouts. In most cases you need to cover the gutters to complete the water management system. Please read the additional articles to help you choose the system that best suits your needs.