Gutters and downspouts are probably the last thought on anyone’s mind when it comes to building or remodeling. In fact, many builders may make the selections for their clients without involving them in the process. After all, gutter systems are just for preventing water damage. Or are they?
It’s true that gutter systems are important for moving water away from homes to prevent damage both inside and out, including to the foundation — not to mention for preventing mold. But gutters and downspouts, plus hopper heads and scuppers, should be considered architectural features that can improve the overall character of your home. Or they can do the opposite.
First some basics: Essentially, there are three main types of gutters, all available in a wide range of colors, materials — aluminum, vinyl, steel and copper, for example — and finishes depending on whether you want your system to blend in or stand out. You may also choose sectional or continuous; the latter is more expensive but needs less maintenance.
- The K-style looks vaguely like a K from the side and is the most frequently used. It attaches to the fascia board on the back and has a range of styles on the front meant to mimic crown molding. Typically, these gutters are paired with corrugated downspouts, the commonly seen rectangular shape with ridges, for greater durability and support.
- The half-round gutter style is far more charming but cannot move as much water. These have smooth cylindrical downspouts, which are attached to the fascia with support brackets.
- Box gutters, which are square, can move the most water. Also called built-in or internal gutters, they are built into the roof overhang and are often chosen for contemporary homes with clean lines and angular geometry, or for commercial buildings. Pairing them with rectangular smooth-finish downspouts offers a sleek feel of refinement.
In lieu of downspouts, some homeowners choose rain chains for the tranquil way the water cascades down. They come in many styles but are not suitable for large amounts of rainfall and must be anchored to a water-diverting source like a collection basin, fountain or a rock garden that allows water to percolate into the ground. All can be quite lovely.
The aesthetic fun really begins when you add hopper heads or scuppers into the mix. Hoppers help collect water from gutters and divert it to the downpipe. Sounds utilitarian, right? They are, but that is only part of their appeal. Compatible with round, square or rectangular systems and available in a similar array of colors, materials and finishes, they can be purchased as is or custom made in myriad shapes and styles from boxes to cones, inverted pyramids, or even gargoyles, with beveling from simple to elaborate.
A cast iron — or cast iron-looking — hopper might be exactly the right touch for a home with traditional European bones, echoing the 19th century Victorian era. Some hoppers are cast with plant forms, letters or numbers on the fronts. It all depends on the look you want, from restrained elegance to elaborate luxury.
Scuppers can also be used with gutters and downspouts to divert the flow of water, generally from an opening in the side of the roof edge. Think of a waterfall faucet in a bathtub, writ large. Available in a vast array of styles, scuppers are typically most compatible with modern, industrial or farmhouse style homes and buildings. Often designed as a U-shaped channel, they sometimes are combined with a rain chain; in other instances they divert their cascade of water directly into a basin, fountain or rock bed.
Once gutter systems are on your radar, you won’t be able to look at a house again without assessing how much the system contributes — or doesn’t — to the look of the home. If you are contemplating a remodeling project or a new build that will require a gutter system, start taking note of attractive designs. Take advantage of this opportunity to add some real style and character to your home in an often-overlooked way.
