Installing gutters on a steep roof requires special considerations. The steeper the slope of the roof, the faster the gutter will fill up and the more volume it will need to work properly. If you live in an area with heavy rains, you'll need a larger gutter to accommodate the volume of water. The size of the house and the number of rain gutters that need to be replaced will affect the total installation time.
It's important to install gutters on the eaves, so that the front edge of the gutter is below the extended plane of the roof. If you're in a high-capacity situation due to roof inclination or rainfall levels, adding additional downspouts can increase the drainage capacity of the gutter. Replacing gutters on your own may not save you money in the long run if the wrong materials are purchased, if new gutters leak, or if someone is injured when they fall from a ladder. The general rule of thumb for placing downspouts is that one is needed for every 25 to 35 linear feet of gutter.
Making the mistake of installing the wrong gutter or installing it incorrectly can have long-lasting consequences. Roof pitch is something that every homeowner and contractor should consider when it comes to roof installation and repair. Installing rain gutters isn't as simple as it sounds, but it helps to become familiar with how gutters are carefully installed to encourage water to flow out of the house. This is because the water is distributed over more slopes than if it were a classic gable roof with only two slopes, says Jose Figueroa, gutter expert at Artisan Quality Roofing.
Choosing the right gutter size depends on the amount of rainfall in the region and the slope of the roof. The main argument against raising the edge of the gutter above the plane of the roof is that it will trap layers of ice or snow and tear off the gutter. A professional can properly evaluate your house to select the correct gutter style, inspect for water damage to walls or foundations, and install gutters at an appropriate incline with correct connections and seals to prevent leaks. Place them just below the roof plane and they will pick up most of runoff and melted snow, but very heavy rain can exceed it.
