Gutters are integral to the effective functioning of roofs. The primary function of gutters is to divert water away from the building’s foundation safely. From a general perspective, residential roof gutters seem alike to those in commercial properties. Both have similarities, and it is tough to highlight the differences.
The telltale difference between residential and commercial gutters is the property where they are installed. But there are other differences that you must know to select the best one for your building. Being aware of the differences between each gutter type lets you choose the right fit for your property. Listed are some significant differences between residential and commercial gutters.
The Build Material of Gutters
Residential and commercial roof gutters are available in various build materials. The choice of material depends on factors like budget, durability, etc. Some common materials for gutters are as follows:
Aluminum
It is a popular gutter material choice for residential buildings. Gutters made from aluminum are affordable and resist rust. They can be easily painted to match the exterior of your house.
Galvanized Steel
Gutters made from galvanized steel are durable and can last for years. However, they are expensive for an average homeowner. Therefore, galvanized steel gutters are common in upscale commercial buildings. These gutters render a sophisticated appearance to the structure.
Copper
It is uncommon to see copper roof gutters in residential buildings. However, they are commonly used in high-end condos and residential buildings. Gutters manufactured from copper are an integral part of upscale commercial buildings too.
Zinc
Zinc gutters can be an excellent addition to your commercial property. They are immensely popular because of their ability to develop a unique patina. Gutters made from this material are ideal for upscale sustainable homes as they don’t degrade the environment.
The Size of the Gutter
You can easily differentiate between a residential and a commercial gutter from its size. Commercial spaces are more significant than residential buildings. Therefore, these buildings require a longer and bigger gutter than a residential property. Usually, the average size range of gutters can vary between four to six inches. However, most commercial buildings will require at least seven-inch gutters for efficient water drainage.
The Style of Residential and Commercial Gutters
Note that the style of residential gutters varies from commercial gutters. For instance, roofers typically tend to install K-shaped or U-shaped gutters for residential buildings. On the contrary, box-shaped gutters are more for commercial spaces.
Aesthetic Considerations
Gutters may vary based on their aesthetic appeal. For instance, it is a trend among homeowners to install aesthetically pleasing gutters. You will always prefer to install gutters that perfectly blend with your property’s architectural style. It becomes easier to enhance your home’s curb appeal with aesthetically pleasing gutters.
On the contrary, commercial buildings tend to prioritize function over form. A commercial roof restoration can be effective. So, installing the right roof components is crucial to avoid expensive repairs. The gutters for commercial roofs are designed to facilitate adequate drainage of water.
Installation of Roof Gutters
The installation process of residential and commercial gutters differs based on the roof’s size. The size of a residential building’s roof is smaller compared to a commercial property’s roof. Therefore, roofers require a few tools and less time to install a gutter on a residential property’s roof.
For gutter installation on commercial roofs, contractors often need specialized tools. They also need to invest time in planning the installation of seamless gutters.
Cost of Installing Commercial and Residential Gutters
One of the key differences between these gutters is the cost. Commercial roof gutters are more complex and have a larger surface area. So, to install a commercial roof gutter, you need more workforce and materials. It typically leads to higher upfront costs for the owner.
The initial cost of installing residential gutters is low. Due to their smaller size, they can be installed by professionals in a shorter timeframe. But your choice of build material can increase the overall cost of gutter installation for your home.
Gutters are elemental in preventing water damage and maintaining your property’s value over the years. So, by referring to these differences, you can make an informed decision while buying gutter systems for your property.
You can learn more about gutters by consulting with Advance Roofing LLC. The experienced roofers in their team will help you install gutters in no time.