Why is 5" the standard size for residential gutters?
5" K-Style gutters have become the industry standard because they provide the optimal balance of water capacity, cost-effectiveness, and aesthetic proportions for most residential homes. They handle roof areas up to 5,600 square feet and rainfall up to 1.3 inches per hour, which covers the vast majority of residential applications. The size is proportional to standard home dimensions without appearing oversized, and the water capacity is sufficient for typical Pacific Northwest rainfall patterns.
How do I know if I need 5" or 6" gutters?
Choose 5" gutters if your home has a roof area under 5,600 square feet, standard roof pitch (4/12 to 8/12), and you're in an area with typical rainfall. Choose 6" gutters if you have a larger home (over 5,600 sq ft roof), steep roof pitch (over 8/12), experience heavy rainfall (over 1.3"/hour), or have a multi-level roof that concentrates water flow. For most single-story and standard two-story homes in the Portland Metro area, 5" gutters are the perfect choice. Call us at (503) 496-7017 and we can help evaluate your specific situation.
Why don't you ship gutters?
Gutters are long, awkward materials that are easily damaged during shipping. Even 10ft sections are difficult for carriers to handle properly, and damage during transit is common. By offering local pickup and cut & drop delivery only, we ensure you receive perfect, undamaged materials ready for installation. This also allows us to offer custom cutting services and provide better pricing since we're not paying expensive freight costs. Our Damascus location is convenient for the entire Portland Metro area.
What is your cut & drop delivery service?
Our cut & drop delivery service is perfect for contractors and homeowners who want custom-cut gutters delivered directly to their job site. We cut the gutters to your exact specifications at our Damascus facility, then deliver them to your location within the Portland Metro area. This saves you the time of picking up materials and ensures perfect measurements. Delivery fees vary based on distance and order size. Call (503) 496-7017 to get a quote for your specific project and location.
Can I install these gutters myself?
While K-Style gutters are designed for easier installation than other profiles, gutter installation requires working at dangerous heights with proper safety equipment. You'll need ladders, fall protection, specialized tools, and knowledge of proper slope calculations and building codes. Professional installation is strongly recommended for safety, warranty compliance, and optimal performance. Improper installation can void warranties, create safety hazards, and cause water damage to your home. We can connect you with qualified local contractors if needed.
How much gutter do I need for my home?
Measure the linear feet of all roof edges where gutters will be installed, then add 10-15% for waste and overlaps. A typical single-story home needs 100-200 linear feet, while two-story homes may require 200-400 linear feet. You'll also need downspouts every 20-30 feet, plus corners, end caps, and hangers. Our team can help calculate exact requirements based on your home's dimensions and roof configuration. Call (503) 496-7017 with your measurements and we'll provide a complete material list.
What's the difference between .027" and thinner aluminum?
.027" aluminum is professional-grade thickness that provides optimal strength, durability, and longevity. Thinner aluminum (.019" or .024") may cost less initially but dents more easily from hail and debris, sags between hangers over time, and often requires replacement sooner. The .027" thickness we use resists denting, maintains structural integrity for 25+ years, and won't sag between properly spaced hangers. It's the thickness preferred by professional contractors for quality installations.
How do I choose the right color?
Consider three main factors: your trim color, roof color, and siding color. Popular choices include matching your trim for a seamless look, complementing your roof color for visual harmony, or creating subtle contrast with your siding. We offer 15 designer colors with fade-resistant, UV-stable finishes. Classic whites and browns suit traditional homes, while blacks and grays work well for modern architecture. We can provide color samples so you can see how they look against your home's exterior in different lighting. Call (503) 496-7017 to request samples.
What maintenance do aluminum gutters require?
Aluminum gutters require minimal maintenance. Clean them twice yearly (spring and fall) to remove leaves, debris, and prevent clogs. Inspect annually for proper slope, secure fasteners, and sealed joints. Check for damage after severe weather events. Ensure downspouts drain properly and extend away from your foundation. Consider installing gutter guards to reduce cleaning frequency. With proper maintenance, professional-grade .027" aluminum gutters can last 25-30+ years while maintaining their appearance and performance.
Do you offer installation services?
We focus on providing professional-grade gutter materials and can connect you with qualified local contractors for installation. Many of our customers are professional contractors who purchase materials from us for their projects. If you need installation, we can recommend experienced installers in the Portland Metro area who are familiar with our products and provide quality workmanship. Call (503) 496-7017 and we'll help connect you with the right professional for your project.