Types of Gutters and Costs

Gutters come in all shapes, colors, and prices so you can easily find a match for your style of house and budget

shapes.

There are two basic types, and they’re referred to by the shape of their cross section. Both types come in 5- and 6-inch widths.

1.  K-style gutters have flat bottoms and backs, and the front side of the gutter usually has a decorative shape, it is also called ogee and many styles are available. The “k” in the name refers to the vague curve of the outer shape when viewed from the side. These types of ornate gutters are popular with modern homes because of the molding-like silhouette. Coming in all manner of colors and finishes, including aluminum, pvc, galvanized steel and copper, these stylish systems easily blend into the architectural details of a home

2.  Half-round gutters often are found on older, historic homes.The name for this gutter type isn’t hard to figure out, given the half rounded shape of the material itself. Half round gutters of today gained popularity in Europe as modern homes chose to adopt a period look similar to those used centuries ago. The main advantage to half round over k-style is the maneuverability of debris within the gutter itself, the symmetrically smooth interior of half round gutters are ideal for transporting runoff with ease. They are easier to clean and are less likely to corrode since water doesn’t have anywhere to collect.

Half round gutter systems hold less water than similarly sized k-style gutter systems, making them unappealing for homes in cities with heavy annual rainfall.

In general, K-style gutters have twice the capacity of their half-round gutter of the same width, and cost up to 50% more per linear foot. k-style gutter systems remain the industry standard because of the elegant shape resembling interior crown molding.

Gutter Materials

Residential gutters are made from various materials, including:

Aluminum

• Most widely used material
• Lightweight and easy to maintain
• Won’t rust
• .032- or .027-gauge thickness recommended for long-lasting duty in a place like Nigeria
• Comes in various colors and can be  painted 

Cost  (materials and labor): N5,500 – N7500 Per Linear meter

Copper

• Exceptional beauty
• Won’t rust
• No need to paint; will develop a patina over time
• Needs pro installation; seams and joints must be welded
• Used primarily on high-end residences, luxury buildings and historic restorations
• Pricey

Cost of pro install (materials and labor): N15,000 – N25,000 per linear meter

Steel

• Strong
• Galvanized steel resists rust but longevity is an issue; may start to rust after 5 to 10 years
• Many color options; can be painted
• Heavy and not recommended for DIY
• Can be pricey

Cost of pro install (materials and labor): N8,000 – N10,000 per linear meter

Vinyl (PVC)

• Lightweight and inexpensive; good for DIYers
• Not many colors to choose from
• Color susceptible to fading from UV sunlight
• May crack, sag or warp in  severe weather 
• Won’t support ladders placed against them

Cost (materials and labor): N2,000 – N4,000 per linear meter

Zinc

• Durable and long-lasting
• No need to paint; will develop a patina over time
• Needs pro installation; seams and joints must be welded
• Used primarily on high-end residences and historic restorations
• Expensive

Cost of pro install (materials and labor): N10,000 to N15,000 per linear meter, Only in half-round (K-style not available in zinc)

Downspouts

Downspouts come as either round or square, in widths from 3 to 6 inches. The most common sizes are rectangular:

• 2 inches by 3 inches

Decorative varieties, such as spiral shapes, are available.

The size and number of downspouts you’ll need depends on the capacity of your system.

Rule of thumb: You need one downspout for about every 10 meters of gutter. To increase the capacity of your gutter system, add more downspouts.

How Much Gutter Do You Need?

Figuring gutters sizes and capacities is a complex equation involving the size  and slope of your roof and the average maximum rainfall your area can expect. We recommend leaving the calculations to your gutter installation professional.

For the most part, you won’t go wrong with a 5-inch, K-style gutter. “A 5-inch gutter is pretty standard and will handle rainfall just about anywhere in Nigeria

Contact a member of our dedicated team for any assistance Contact Us