Rain gutters come in different shapes, or styles. For reference check out our products tab. The two most commonly used are K-Style (also referred to as OGEE) and Half-Round, both of which can be fabricated without seams. We also offer Box style Gutters which have become very popular in recent years.
What are the differences?
K-Style or OGEE gutters (“Ogee” is an architectural term for a form that goes from small to large) are arguably the most popular type of gutter installed today. When you look at a K-Style gutter straight on, they have an appearance on your roofline that resembles the shape of crown molding. Their attractive shape and reasonable price makes them appealing to homeowners. They are highly effective, and can hold more water than a half round style gutter with the equivalent diameter. They can be made of different materials as well, such as seamless aluminum, steel, and copper. The downspouts on K-Style gutters are often rectangular. K-Styles are ideal for applications where a flat fascia has been installed. For slanted or angled fascia, brackets are applied so that the gutter hangs securely at the correct angle.
Half Round gutters look like a half-circle, hence the name. The half-round profile goes with virtually any style of home architecture. They can also be made with different materials; such as copper, steel, or aluminum. Half-round gutters are most commonly used in southern California on spanish style homes. They’re often used on custom homes as well, and the shape even allows for the material (most commonly copper) to be embossed, for a very elegant touch to the architecture of the home. Half-round gutters function the same way as K-Style gutters, and they are usually paired with a matching round downspout. The half-round design is sometimes easier to clean because the surface is smooth, and there are no corners or creases for dirt or debris to become lodged.
There are Box style profiles also available (including Fascia and M-style). Box gutter is a perfect fit for modern architecture. This minimalist style (literally a box) can be fabricated in the M-style, flat on all sides, or with a small box trim at the top of the gutter profile. The trim helps to add rigidity to the gutter and keeps the face of the gutters from looking wavy. We can manufacture this style in virtually any size. These gutters are typically paired with smooth downspouts. If considering this style we recommend using steel or copper so that the gutter seams and custom cut downspouts can be soldered together. The Fascia profiles are designed to look like fascia boards, giving the appearance that your home doesn’t have gutters, yet still providing protection from water damage.
Whichever style you choose, Prestigious Raingutters can make sure your gutters are properly installed protecting your home from water damage. Call us for a free estimate.
