Rain gutters are constructed to catch and channel rainwater, sleet and melting ice from your roof to downspouts. Gutters are available in an array of shapes, styles and materials to go beyond the practical and enhance your property. When you have a striking cedar roof, you need the right gutter to complement your home's appearance and extend your roof's life span.
What Is A Gutter's Purpose?
Gutters channel water from your cedar roof and your home's foundation, protecting your basement, siding and other property components from water damage. Rain gutters are functional but add curb appeal when matched with your home's aesthetic style.
How To Choose Gutters For A Cedar Roof
There are various gutter options available. The kind of gutters you should get depends mainly on your roofing material and the style of your home. Custom Shingles recommends opting for either copper or pre-finished aluminum gutters in half-round, K- or box styles — these are the most popular choices among homeowners we work with.
What Is The Preferred Gutter Material For Cedar Roofs?
Typical gutter materials used to complement cedar roofs include:
Copper: This durable material has natural aesthetic appeal without the need for powder coating. Copper gutters are highly resistant to heat, cold and water and don't bend, warp or rust. Copper gutters protect your roof for up to 100 years if installed and maintained correctly.
Pre-finished aluminum: This popular gutter material is rust-resistant and available in various painted colors to seamlessly complement your home's style. Aluminum gutters are inexpensive and have an average life span of 20 to 30 years.
What Are Recommended Gutter Styles For Cedar Roofs?
Gutters are available in various styles. Popular styles for cedar roofs include:
Half-round gutters: These open, trough-like channels are traditional and typical for historic homes, local ordinances or older neighborhoods. The 5- or 6-inch half-round profiles integrate well with most cedar roofs.
K-style gutters: A popular choice for most homeowners. The durable design and wide channel allow more water to flow through the system. The K-style design resembles crown molding often seen inside homes.
Box-style gutters: These robust gutters suit regions with heavy rainfall or meltwater after snow. Box gutters must be installed beneath your cedar shingles, so it's best to have professionals place them when your roof is repaired or replaced.
Will The Gutters Be Easy To Install With Any Cedar Roof?
Reputable and professional roofers can easily install gutters on any standard wood shake or shingle roof, as well as country cottage roofs. Even if your country cottage roof features rolling eaves and gables, experienced providers can fabricate a copper gutter to fit the curves. You can opt for built-in or hung gutters to suit your preferences.
What Other Types Of Gutters Do You Get?
Gutters are also available in:
Vinyl: Lightweight and available in various colors, vinyl gutters are most suitable for mild climates.
Zinc: This durable material develops an attractive patina with time and is suitable for high-end and historic homes. These long-lasting gutters won't warp, fade or rust.
Steel: These hefty gutter systems are resistant to all weather conditions and can be painted. Steel gutters are hardy but vulnerable to rust.
Enhance Your Cedar Roof With A Gutter System
Finding solutions that complement your historic roof and home takes specialist service. Custom Shingles has over 40 years of experience mastering custom cedar roofing solutions. Our team has excellent design sense and is ready to help you decide what systems, styles and materials match your home's aesthetics.
We have an extensive specialty product range and portfolio of cedar roof installations. We also ship our specialty products country-wide, so reach out at your convenience — our experts are ready to answer any questions about what gutter system will suit your style while protecting your home.