Roof Anatomy
What is Gutter?
Roofing Glossary · Roof Anatomy
Definition
A trough-shaped channel installed along the eave of a roof to collect rainwater running off the roof surface and direct it to downspouts, which carry water away from the foundation. Standard residential gutters are 5" or 6" aluminum K-style or half-round style. Clogged or improperly pitched gutters contribute to ice dam formation, fascia rot, and foundation erosion.
Related Roofing Terms
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EaveThe lower edge of a roof that overhangs beyond the exterior wall of a building. Eaves direct rainwat...
→DownspoutA vertical pipe connecting the gutter to grade level that carries collected rainwater from the roof ...
→FasciaThe vertical board that runs along the lower edge of the roof, directly behind the gutter and beneat...
→Gutter CleaningThe removal of leaves, debris, granules, and blockages from gutters and downspouts to maintain prope...
→Ice DamA ridge of ice that forms at the eave of a roof when heat from the interior melts snow on the warmer...
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