Gutter size depends on your roof area, climate, and rainfall. Here's how to determine the right size:

Step 1: Measure Your Roof Area

• Measure the length and width of your house (exterior)
• Multiply length × width = total roof area
• Example: 40ft × 30ft home = 1,200 sq ft

Step 2: Choose Based on Home Size

Roof Area	Recommended Gutter	Downspout Size
Under 1,000 sq ft	5" K-style	2x3"
1,000-2,000 sq ft	5" K-style	2x3"
2,000-3,000 sq ft	6" K-style OR (2) 5" systems	3x4"
3,000+ sq ft	6" K-style OR commercial	3x4"

Step 3: Consider Your Climate

Damascus Area (37" annual rainfall):

• Standard recommendation: 5" K-style for 1,500 sq ft homes
• Heavy rain areas: Consider upgrading to 6" for better capacity
• Winter: Ensure proper pitch (1/4" per 10ft) for snow melt

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming all homes need 5" gutters (6" better for heavy rain areas)
• Using roof pitch to estimate gutter size (doesn't directly correlate)
• Forgetting to account for additions/future expansions
• Not considering climate-specific needs (Pacific NW = more drainage)

Shop 6" K-Style Gutters →

The choice depends on rainfall, roof area, and budget. Here's the detailed comparison:

Capacity Comparison

Factor	5" K-Style	6" K-Style
Water Capacity	7.2 sq inches	9.0 sq inches
Rainfall Handling	Up to 1,500 sq ft	Up to 2,500 sq ft
Heavy Rain Performance	Good for moderate	Excellent for heavy
Installation Complexity	Standard	Standard (same difficulty)
Cost per Linear Foot	$4.50-6.00	$6.00-8.50
Hanger Spacing	Every 24" standard	Every 24" standard

Best for 5" Gutters

• Typical single-story homes (1,000-1,500 sq ft)
• Moderate rainfall areas (25-35" annually)
• Budget-conscious homeowners
• Homes with good roof pitch (allows faster drainage)
• Most residential applications

Best for 6" Gutters

• Heavy rainfall areas (35"+ annually) - YES, Damascus area!
• Two-story homes (2,000-3,000 sq ft)
• Commercial/industrial properties
• Homes with complex rooflines
• Long roof runs (100+ linear feet)
• Flat or low-slope roofs

Cost Comparison

• 5" System (100 LF): $450-600
• 6" System (100 LF): $600-850
• Price Difference: +$150-250 per system

GutterAll Position: We often recommend 6" for 1,500+ sq ft because the extra $150-250 investment prevents overflow damage (which costs $500-2,000 to repair).

Shop 5" K-Style Gutters →

Shop 6" K-Style Gutters →

Accurate measurement is critical for ordering the right amount. Follow this process:

Measuring Tools Needed

• 25ft+ measuring tape
• Pencil and paper (or phone notes)
• Ladder (safe height)
• Optional: smartphone measuring app

Step-by-Step Measurement

Step 1: Start at One Corner

• Position ladder at house corner (safer than climbing roof)
• Measure from corner along fascia board where gutter will attach
• Go all the way to opposite corner

Step 2: Measure All Sides

• Front of house: corner to corner
• Right side: corner to corner
• Back of house: corner to corner
• Left side: corner to corner
• Total = sum of all four measurements

Step 3: Account for Roof Complexity

• Each valley (interior corner): ADD 10-15 feet
• Each corner: ADD 3-5 feet for slope
• Each downspout location: ADD 2-3 feet for transitions

Example Measurement

Common Measurement Mistakes

• Only measuring front of house (forget sides)
• Not accounting for roof valleys
• Ordering exact amount (no waste allowance)
• Measuring house perimeter instead of gutter run
• Forgetting transitions and corners

Downspout Measurement

For each downspout location:

1. Measure vertical distance from gutter to ground = height needed
2. Measure horizontal distance from wall to desired end point
3. Standard: Allow 10ft height + 5ft horizontal = 15 LF per downspout
4. Multiply by number of downspout locations

Example: 4 downspout locations × 15 LF = 60 LF downspout needed

Important: Do not under-order! Better to have 5-10 LF extra than run short mid-installation.

Gutter pitch (slope) is critical for proper drainage and preventing overflow.

Definition

Gutter pitch = the angle at which gutters slope toward downspout locations.

Standard Pitch Ratio

1/4 inch drop per 10 linear feet

Why This Matters

• Too shallow: Water pools, causes overflow and ice dams
• Too steep: Water rushes too fast, can damage gutters
• Perfect pitch: Water flows smoothly to downspouts

Calculating Your Pitch

Formula: (Linear feet ÷ 10) × 0.25 inches = total drop needed

Pitch Problems & Solutions

Problem 1: Insufficient Pitch

• Sign: Water pools in middle, overflows during rain
• Cause: Gutters hung too level
• Solution: Remove and rehang with proper 1/4" per 10ft slope

Problem 2: Excessive Pitch

• Sign: Water drains too fast, makes loud noise, can strain connection
• Cause: Too much slope toward downspout
• Solution: Adjust hanger heights to reduce slope

Problem 3: Reverse Pitch (slopes wrong direction)

• Sign: Water flows away from downspout, causes pooling
• Cause: Installed incorrectly
• Solution: Complete reinstallation with correct pitch

Pacific Northwest Consideration

Damascus area (37" annual rainfall) requires:

• Proper pitch + adequate capacity (5" or 6" gutters)
• More frequent cleaning (pine needle debris)
• Proper slope prevents ice dam formation in winter
• Extra downspout capacity recommended

Test Your Pitch

After installation, run water test:

1. Spray water into gutter at highest point
2. Observe water flow
3. Water should flow smoothly to downspout in 3-5 seconds
4. No significant pooling or overflow

Call GutterAll for pitch verification: (503) 496-7017

YES! 85% of DIYers successfully install gutters if they follow proper steps. Here's what you need to know:

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Required Skills

• Comfortable working on ladder at heights
• Basic measuring and math
• Ability to use drill and hand tools
• Willing to spend 8-12 hours on project
• Basic problem-solving ability

Not Required

• Prior gutter experience
• Professional tools (can rent for $25/day)
• Specialized knowledge

Honest Assessment

DIY is Best If:

• Home under 2,000 sq ft
• Simple rectangular roof
• You have one helper
• You have full weekend
• Minimal roof complexity
• Budget is primary concern
• You enjoy hands-on projects

Hire Professional If:

• Home over 3,000 sq ft
• Complex roofline (multiple levels, valleys)
• Steep roof (too dangerous)
• Need it done quickly
• Limited time/ability
• No one to help
• Concerned about warranty

DIY Timeline

Component	Time
Planning & measurement	1-2 hours
Getting materials	1-2 hours
Installing hangers	2-3 hours
Hanging gutters & sealing	3-4 hours
Installing downspouts	2-3 hours
Testing/adjustments	1 hour
TOTAL	8-12 hours

Critical Success Factors

1. Proper Pitch: Most DIY failures are improper slope (causes overflow)
2. Correct Hanger Spacing: Every 24" prevents sagging
3. Adequate Sealant: Prevents leaks at connections
4. Downspout Planning: Before starting, know where water goes
5. Helper Needed: One person can't safely hold 20ft gutter while drilling

Tools You'll Need

• Drill with hex bits - $0 if you have it
• Pop rivet gun - $15-25
• Tin snips - $15-25
• 4ft level - $20-40 (or rent $5)
• Measuring tape - $10-15
• Caulking gun - $10-15
• Rivet assortment - $10

Total tool cost: $50-80 (or rent complete kit for $25/day)

Common DIY Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake	Result	Fix
No pitch/wrong pitch	Water overflow	Use 1/4" per 10ft rule, level tools
Hanger spacing too wide	Gutter sag	Install every 24" maximum
Insufficient sealant	Leaks at seams	3 tubes minimum per 100 LF
Wrong rivet size	Rivets pop out	Use 1/8" rivets for gutters
Downspout placement wrong	Water damage foundation	Plan before starting
Forgetting end caps	Water spillage	Cap both ends of runs

Shop Installation Tools & Hangers →

Installation time varies based on multiple factors. Here's the breakdown:

Typical Timeline by Experience

Experience Level	System Size	Time	Notes
Professional (paid contractor)	100 LF	4-6 hours	Includes cleanup
Experienced DIYer	100 LF	8-10 hours	One or two people
First-time DIYer	100 LF	10-14 hours	Spread over weekend
Two-person team (DIY)	100 LF	8-12 hours	Faster with helper

Factors Affecting Installation Time

Time Reducers (Faster Installation):

• Simple rectangular roof
• Single-story home
• Experienced installer
• Two-person team
• Professional tools (crimpers, etc.)
• Minimal downspout locations (2-3)

Time Expanders (Slower Installation):

• Complex roofline (valleys, multiple levels)
• Two-story home
• First-time installation
• Solo installer
• Manual/basic tools
• Multiple downspout locations (4+)
• Difficult access (tall peaks)

Realistic Time Breakdown for 100 LF System

Professional Contractor:

• Setup/measurement: 20 minutes
• Install hangers (50 hangers): 45 minutes
• Hang gutters: 60 minutes
• Install outlets/downspouts: 75 minutes
• Seal/rivet connections: 45 minutes
• Testing/adjustments: 20 minutes
• Cleanup: 20 minutes
• TOTAL: 4.5-5.5 hours

First-Time DIYer:

• Planning/preparation: 2 hours
• Trip to get materials: 1 hour
• Mark hanger locations: 45 minutes
• Install hangers (50 hangers): 2.5-3 hours
• Hang gutters: 2-3 hours
• Install outlets/downspouts: 2-3 hours
• Seal/rivet connections: 1.5-2 hours
• Testing/adjustments: 1 hour
• TOTAL: 10-14 hours (typically over 1-2 days)

Time-Saving Tips

1. Prepare everything first: Gather all materials, tools before starting
2. Get a helper: Two people work 30% faster
3. Have correct tools: Renting crimpers saves 1+ hour
4. Plan downspout route: Saves decisions during installation
5. Pre-drill holes: Do before hanging gutters
6. Use measuring guides: Pre-mark all hanger locations with chalk

Depends on condition. Here's the decision matrix:

Repair (Usually $200-500 per issue)

Best for:

• 1-2 isolated leaks
• Single section needs replacement
• Gutters are less than 15 years old
• Only minor sagging in one location
• Recently cleaned, debris not the issue

Common repairs:

• Leaking seams: Seal with caulk ($50-150)
• One damaged section: Replace section ($150-300)
• Loose hanger: Re-secure (free-$50)
• Downspout clog: Clean/replace ($75-150)

Replace Entire System (Usually $2,000-4,000 for 100 LF)

Best for:

• Multiple leaks in different areas (sign of systemic failure)
• Gutters older than 20 years
• Continuous sagging or bowing
• Large sections rusted/corroded
• Foundation water damage despite repairs
• Planning to stay in home 10+ more years
• Gutters near end of life anyway

Decision Tree

Repair Cost vs Replacement ROI

Pacific Northwest Consideration

Heavy rainfall (37") and debris (pine needles) can accelerate deterioration:

• Typical lifespan: 15-20 years
• Regular maintenance crucial (quarterly cleaning)
• Watch for moss growth (common in PNW climate)

Call GutterAll for free inspection: (503) 496-7017

Here's the complete tool list with cost and availability:

Essential Tools (Required)

Tool	Purpose	Cost New	Rent	Notes
Drill with hex bits	Install screws/hangers	$50-150	Own it	Most people have this
Pop rivet gun	Seal seams & connections	$15-45	$8/day	Cheapest option
Tin snips	Cut aluminum gutters	$15-30	$5/day	Get 3-piece set (left/right/straight)
Measuring tape (25ft)	Measure gutters	$10-20	$3/day	Standard household tool
4ft level	Verify pitch	$25-50	$5/day	Critical for proper drainage
Ladder (extension)	Access gutters	$150-300	$30/day	Rent if don't have
Chalk line	Mark hanger locations	$8-15	$2/day	Ensures straight installation
Safety glasses	Eye protection	$10-20	Own	Essential safety
Work gloves	Cut protection	$12-25	Own	Metal edges are sharp

TOTAL COST TO BUY: $310-655

TOTAL COST TO RENT DAILY: $58-95 for complete kit

Optional Tools (Make work easier)

Tool	Purpose	Cost	Benefit
Downspout crimper	Perfect downspout connections	$40-85	90% faster, professional results
Power drill	Faster hanger installation	$100-300	50% time savings
Cordless impact driver	One-handed fastening	$150-300	Fatigue reduction
Caulking gun	Apply sealant	$10-20	Cleaner application
Laser level	Automatic pitch calculation	$40-150	Eliminates guesswork
Gutter outlet hole saw	Precise outlet holes	$20-40	Professional appearance
Step ladder	Access at corners	$60-120	Safer than extension ladder

Tool Kit Bundles

GutterAll DIY Starter Kit - $95:

• Pop rivet gun
• Aviation snips (3-piece)
• Drill bits (hex set)
• Work gloves
• Safety glasses
• Measuring tape

GutterAll Professional Kit - $425 (rental):

• All starter tools PLUS:
• Professional 5-blade crimper
• 4ft level
• Chalk line
• Caulking gun
• Carrying case

Where to Get Tools

Option 1: Buy from GutterAll

• Damascus location: 19759 SE Sunnyside Rd
• Complete inventory in stock
• Expert recommendation included
• Phone: (503) 496-7017

Option 2: Rent from GutterAll

• Daily rental: $25 complete kit
• Pick up morning of project
• Return same day
• $50 refundable deposit

Tool Usage Tips

1. Get correct rivet size: 1/8" standard for gutters (not 3/32")
2. Aviation snips: Get 3-piece set (left, right, straight)
3. Hex bits: Buy 6-piece set (you'll lose some)
4. Ladder: Extension ladder better than step ladder for gutters
5. Level: Torpedo (4ft) better than 2ft for gutter work

Downspout quantity is calculated based on roof area and local rainfall.

Standard Calculation

Rule: One 2x3" downspout per 600-900 sq ft of roof area

Rule: One 3x4" downspout per 1,200-1,500 sq ft of roof area

Example Calculations

Pacific Northwest Adjustment

Damascus receives 37" rainfall annually (vs US average 30"):

Standard calculation + 1 extra downspout recommended

Heavy rainfall = need more drainage capacity

Revised for Portland area:

• Less than 1,000 sq ft: 2 downspouts (vs 1 standard)
• 1,000-2,000 sq ft: 3 downspouts (vs 2 standard)
• 2,000-3,000 sq ft: 4-5 downspouts (vs 3 standard)

Placement Strategy

Best practice: Place downspouts at:

1. Each house corner (corners = natural water division points)
2. Midpoint of long runs (prevents overflow between corners)
3. Low points where water naturally collects

Special Situations

Situation 1: Long run (80+ ft gutter)

• Add midpoint downspout to prevent overflow
• Example: 100 ft front gutter + 2 corners = add 1 extra in middle

Situation 2: Multiple roof levels

• Each level gets own downspout calculation
• Upper roof drains to upper downspouts
• Lower roof area calculated separately

Situation 3: Valley issues

• Valleys collect water from two roof planes
• Should always have downspout at valley base

Situation 4: Historic/steep roofs

• May need more downspouts for steeper pitch areas
• Gravity helps with downspout flow

Shop Downspouts →

Downspout sizing matches your gutter system and roof area.

Standard Sizing

Gutter Size	Roof Area Served	Standard Downspout
5" K-style	Up to 750 sq ft per downspout	2x3"
6" K-style	Up to 1,300 sq ft per downspout	3x4"
Half-round	Size-specific (3", 4", 5")	Matches gutter

Matching Guidelines

• 5" gutters → 2x3" downspouts (standard residential)
• 6" gutters → 3x4" downspouts (commercial/heavy-duty)
• Half-round → Size-specific (3" half-round = 2x3" downspout equivalent)

Cross-Sizing (Less common, but works)

• 5" gutter with 3x4" downspout = oversized (more expensive, unnecessary)
• 6" gutter with 2x3" downspout = undersized (risk of overflow)

Upsize If:

• Heavy rainfall area (Portland metro = 37" annually)
• Complex roof with valleys
• Long gutter runs (80+ feet)
• Steep roof pitch (helps with downspout velocity)

Shop 2x3" Downspouts →

Shop 3x4" Downspouts →

Downspout placement affects water drainage and foundation protection.

Optimal Placement Principles

Rule 1: Gravity-Based Placement

• Place downspouts where water naturally collects
• Often at roof valleys and corners
• Never place where wind typically blows (East side)

Rule 2: Foundation Protection

• Extend downspouts 4-6 feet away from house foundation
• Water must drain away from foundation (prevents rot/settling)
• Never discharge directly against foundation wall

Rule 3: Drainage Path

• Route downspouts to slope downward (use elbows/extensions)
• Can go underground with drainage tiles
• Can connect to splash blocks or drainage systems

Specific Placement Options

Option 1: Standard Exterior Downspout

• Vertical downspout on exterior wall
• Elbow at bottom directs water away
• Use splash block 6+ feet from foundation
• Most common for residential homes
• Cost: Low ($150-300 per location)

Option 2: Underground Drain System

• Downspout connects to underground drainage tile
• Water routed away from house
• Can tie into storm drainage or dry well
• Best for: Preventing foundation water damage
• Cost: Moderate ($400-800 per downspout)

Option 3: Rain Barrel System

• Downspout feeds rain barrel
• Collects water for garden use
• Overflow to splash block
• Best for: Water conservation
• Cost: Low ($50-150 per barrel)

Option 4: Daylight Drainage

• Downspout extends to daylight area (slope away)
• Uses gravity for drainage
• Most natural/lowest cost
• Best for: Properties with good slope
• Cost: Low ($50-100)

Shop Downspout Accessories →

Simple answer: Size and capacity.

Physical Difference

Measurement	2x3" Downspout	3x4" Downspout
Width	2 inches	3 inches
Height/Depth	3 inches	4 inches
Cross-section area	6 sq inches	12 sq inches
Volume capacity	6 gallons/minute	12 gallons/minute
Roof area capacity	Up to 750 sq ft	Up to 1,500 sq ft

When to Use 2x3"

• 5" gutter systems (standard residential)
• Homes under 1,500 sq ft
• Single-story residences
• Budget-conscious projects
• Most common choice (85% of residential)

When to Use 3x4"

• 6" gutter systems (commercial/heavy-duty)
• Homes over 2,000 sq ft
• Two-story homes
• Heavy rainfall areas (like Damascus = 37" annually)
• Complex rooflines

Cost Comparison (per linear foot)

• 2x3": $1.50-2.50/ft
• 3x4": $2.50-4.00/ft
• Price difference: +30-50% more expensive

Installation Difference

• Same difficulty
• Same installation steps
• Same hanger/strap placement
• No skill difference

Downspout Matching

Correct Matching:

• 5" gutter = 2x3" downspout
• 6" gutter = 3x4" downspout
• Half-round 5" = 2x3" or 3x4" (flexible)

Incorrect Matching:

• 5" gutter with 3x4" = oversized/expensive
• 6" gutter with 2x3" = undersized/overflow risk

Not essential, but highly recommended for most situations.

Pros of Gutter Guards

• Reduces cleaning frequency - Clean 1-2x yearly vs 4-6x
• Prevents clogs - No more debris buildup
• Reduces maintenance - Save time & money long-term
• Protects gutters - Less wear from debris weight
• Prevents ice dams (specific types) - Winter protection
• Looks cleaner - No visible debris in gutters

Cons of Gutter Guards

• Upfront cost - $400-800 for 100 LF system
• Occasional maintenance - Still need periodic cleaning
• Installation labor - Extra cost if professional install
• Can trap leaves on top - Depending on type
• Not 100% effective - Small debris can get through
• Removes DIY option - Can't easily clean if blocked

Cost-Benefit Analysis

Recommendation by Situation

Situation	Recommend Guards?
Heavy trees nearby (oak, pine)	YES (saves $1,000+/year)
Multiple roof levels	YES (hard to clean)
Steep roof pitch	YES (dangerous to climb)
Older homeowner	YES (safety/mobility)
Don't want to maintain	YES (convenience)
Open lot, few trees	MAYBE (lower priority)
Enjoy maintaining gutters	NO (unnecessary cost)
Budget constraints	NO (add later if needed)

Pacific Northwest Consideration

Damascus area facts:

• Heavy pine needle/debris year-round
• Frequent cleaning recommended (quarterly in fall)
• Gutter guards highly recommended for this climate

Shop Gutter Guards →

Several types available. Choose based on debris type and budget.

Type 1: Micro-Mesh Screens (Best for Pine Debris)

• Material: Stainless steel micro-mesh
• Mesh size: 0.017" (smaller than pine needles)
• Effectiveness: 95-99% debris blocking
• Cost: $6-12/linear foot
• Lifespan: 20-30 years
• Best for: Pine needles, small debris, heavy tree coverage
• Maintenance: Brush off surface 1-2x yearly

Type 2: Perforated Aluminum Screens

• Material: Aluminum with punched holes
• Hole size: 1/8" - 1/4"
• Effectiveness: 75-85% debris blocking
• Cost: $2-5/linear foot
• Lifespan: 10-15 years
• Best for: Leaves, twigs, medium debris
• Maintenance: Clean 1-2x yearly

Type 3: Brush/Bristle Guards

• Material: Polypropylene bristles
• Design: Fills entire gutter opening
• Effectiveness: 60-70% debris blocking
• Cost: $3-6/linear foot
• Lifespan: 5-10 years
• Best for: Large leaves, easy DIY install
• Maintenance: Clean 2-3x yearly

Type 4: Foam/Sponge Inserts

• Material: Polyurethane foam
• Design: Fills gutter channel
• Effectiveness: 50-60% debris blocking
• Cost: $1-3/linear foot
• Lifespan: 1-2 years
• Best for: Temporary solution, budget option
• Maintenance: Replace annually

Comparison Table

Type	Effectiveness	Cost/LF	Lifespan	Best For
Micro-Mesh	95-99%	$6-12	20-30 years	Pine needles, heavy trees
Perforated Aluminum	75-85%	$2-5	10-15 years	Leaves, medium debris
Brush/Bristle	60-70%	$3-6	5-10 years	Large leaves, DIY
Foam/Sponge	50-60%	$1-3	1-2 years	Temporary, budget

Damascus Recommendation

For Pacific Northwest climate with heavy pine debris:

Best choice: Micro-Mesh Screens

• Blocks pine needles effectively
• Handles heavy rainfall (37" annually)
• Long lifespan justifies higher cost
• Minimal maintenance required

Shop Micro-Mesh Guards →

Cleaning frequency depends on tree coverage and climate.

Standard Recommendations

Minimal Tree Coverage (open lot):

• Frequency: 1-2 times per year
• Timing: Spring (after pollen) and Fall (after leaves)
• Time required: 2-3 hours per cleaning

Moderate Tree Coverage (some nearby trees):

• Frequency: 2-3 times per year
• Timing: Spring, Summer, Fall
• Time required: 3-4 hours per cleaning

Heavy Tree Coverage (surrounded by trees):

• Frequency: 4-6 times per year
• Timing: Every 2-3 months
• Time required: 4-5 hours per cleaning

Pacific Northwest Specific (Damascus Area)

Due to heavy rainfall (37" annually) and pine debris:

• Minimum: 3 times per year
• Recommended: 4 times per year (quarterly)
• Critical months: October-November (before heavy rains)
• Spring cleaning: March-April (after winter debris)

Seasonal Cleaning Schedule

Spring (March-April):

• Remove winter debris and moss
• Check for ice damage
• Inspect hangers and connections
• Test water flow

Summer (June-July):

• Remove pollen and seed pods
• Check for wasp nests
• Inspect for rust or corrosion
• Verify proper pitch

Fall (October-November):

• Remove fallen leaves (CRITICAL)
• Clear downspouts completely
• Prepare for winter rains
• Most important cleaning of year

Winter (January-February):

• Check for ice dams
• Remove snow buildup if excessive
• Inspect for damage from weight
• Optional cleaning if accessible

Signs You Need to Clean NOW

• Water overflowing during rain
• Visible debris piled in gutters
• Sagging sections
• Plants growing in gutters
• Water stains on siding
• Foundation water pooling
• Mosquitoes breeding in standing water

Professional Cleaning Costs

• Single-story home: $100-200 per cleaning
• Two-story home: $150-300 per cleaning
• Annual contract: $400-800 (4 cleanings)

DIY Cleaning Tips

1. Use stable ladder with standoff brackets
2. Wear gloves (debris can be sharp)
3. Use gutter scoop or garden trowel
4. Flush with garden hose after removing debris
5. Check downspouts for clogs
6. Inspect while cleaning for damage

Gutter lifespan varies by material, maintenance, and climate.

Lifespan by Material

Material	Average Lifespan	With Maintenance	Without Maintenance
Aluminum (.032 gauge)	20-25 years	25-30 years	15-20 years
Copper	50+ years	75-100 years	40-50 years
Galvanized Steel	15-20 years	20-25 years	10-15 years
Vinyl/PVC	10-15 years	15-20 years	8-12 years
Zinc	40-50 years	50-80 years	30-40 years

Factors Affecting Lifespan

Factors that Extend Lifespan:

• Regular cleaning (quarterly recommended)
• Proper installation with correct pitch
• Quality materials (.032 gauge aluminum minimum)
• Gutter guards installed
• Prompt repairs when needed
• Professional installation
• Adequate hanger spacing (every 24")

Factors that Reduce Lifespan:

• Neglected maintenance (no cleaning)
• Standing water from improper pitch
• Thin gauge materials (.027 or less)
• Heavy debris accumulation
• Ice dam formation
• Poor installation
• Wide hanger spacing (over 30")

Pacific Northwest Climate Impact

Damascus area considerations:

• Heavy rainfall (37" annually): Accelerates wear
• Pine needle debris: Causes more frequent clogs
• Moss growth: Can trap moisture and cause corrosion
• Winter freeze/thaw: Can damage connections
• Expected lifespan: 15-20 years with proper maintenance

Signs Your Gutters Need Replacement

Immediate Replacement Needed:

• Multiple cracks or holes
• Separated seams in multiple locations
• Rust or corrosion throughout system
• Sagging despite proper hangers
• Foundation water damage
• Age over 25 years

Plan Replacement Soon:

• Age 15-20 years
• Frequent repairs needed
• Visible wear and fading
• Minor leaks in multiple spots
• Planning to sell home

Continue Maintenance:

• Age under 15 years
• No major issues
• Proper water flow
• Minimal repairs needed
• Regular cleaning maintained

Extending Gutter Lifespan

1. Clean regularly: Quarterly in Pacific NW
2. Install gutter guards: Reduces debris accumulation
3. Fix leaks promptly: Small leaks become big problems
4. Check pitch annually: Ensure proper drainage
5. Inspect hangers: Tighten or replace as needed
6. Remove ice dams: Prevent winter damage
7. Trim overhanging branches: Reduces debris

Warranty Information

GutterAll Products:

• Aluminum gutters: 20-year limited warranty
• Copper gutters: 50-year limited warranty
• Hangers and accessories: 10-year warranty
• Gutter guards: 15-20 year warranty (varies by type)

Call GutterAll for inspection: (503) 496-7017