K-Style Gutters: Still the Most Popular Choice in America

Q: Is gutter installation really necessary for my house?

A: Only if your house has a roof overhead!

Why are gutters important? They serve the important function of helping to drain water off of your roof, keeping the water from falling directly on your head, and directing all that moisture away from your building’s foundation. Because of this, choosing the right type of gutter for your home is an important decision. When it comes to gutter designs, there are several options to consider, but one of the most popular continues to be K-style gutters.

What Makes a Gutter “K-Style,” Exactly?

Some say the phrase “K-style” comes from the fact that the side profile of this gutter somewhat resembles the letter “K.” Whether you can see the “K” or not, one thing you will be able to notice is that the K-style is a well-designed gutter. The back and bottom sides of the gutter are flat and meet at a right angle, while the front side has a curved design which somewhat mimics the look of crown molding.

Why Are K-Style Gutters So Popular?

It’s no accident that the vast majority of gutters installed on American homes today are K-style gutters. The K-style profile blends well with modern architectural features, and seamless K-style gutters can be fabricated right on the homeowners’ site by roofing professionals who have the proper gutter-forming equipment. K-style gutters are effective to produce and use, and they simply work quite well. They’re durable, they’re able to move a lot of water, and K-style gutters are also simpler to install than half-round gutters.

Some Benefits of K-Style Gutters

K-style gutters really do have a pretty long list of features and benefits which make them an attractive option for homeowners, business owners, and roofing contractors alike:

• The K-style gutter has a more stylish appearance that many homeowners prefer over other gutter styles.
• Since K-style gutters are flat on the back, they’re easier to fasten directly onto the fascia board than other styles.
• The K-style lends itself well to being produced as a custom seamless gutter. A seamless finish means there are fewer opportunities for leaks to develop.
• Designed to conduct significantly more water volume than a comparable half-round gutter.
• Sturdier, more durable design that’s less likely to bend or fail under stress.
• K-style gutters can be produced in practically any popular gutter material choice.
• Commonly available in 5” and 6” diameters, with 7”, 8”, and other size options available.
• The K-style design is perfect for accommodating the mounting of protective gutter guards, too.

What Size K-Style Gutter Is Best?

Honestly, that depends upon your particular roof. The most important factors to consider when selecting a gutter diameter include the size and slope of your roof, along with the typical amount of annual precipitation you receive in your area. 5” K-style gutters are a popular choice for most residential applications, but one of the beauties of K-style gutters is the fact that they can be produced in essentially any custom size you may need. Still not sure which size gutter would be best for your home or business? The pros at Skywalker Windows & Siding can conduct a free assessment of your roof and help to steer you in the right direction!

Roof Gutter Material Options

K-style roof gutters are available in many material options, but it should also be noted that not all gutter materials provide the same durability or longevity. Here are some preferred gutter material options that are really worth your consideration:

Aluminum is probably the most popular gutter material in America. Many folks like it because aluminum offers fair quality at a very affordable price. Aluminum is lightweight, fairly resistant to corrosion, comes in many color options, and is one of the more inexpensive options. While aluminum doesn’t bend as easily as vinyl, it is fairly easy to dent or ping. Aluminum will also require some periodic maintenance. The coating on the aluminum will eventually wear away, so it will either need to be refinished or replaced at some point.

Galvanized steel is another popular option for residential and commercial roofs alike, due in part to the fact that it’s both more sturdy and more durable than aluminum. The galvanizing process helps to prevent corrosion, oxidation, and rust. Galvanized steel is a heavier material, so it’s also less prone to denting and other stress impacts. A galvanized steel gutter can outlast an aluminum gutter, but once the zinc coating starts to wear away, your galvanized steel will require some attention.

Galvalume steel is a superior material to galvanized steel. The steel isn’t just dipped in zinc, but actually receives several coatings of a resistant alloy of aluminum, zinc, and silicon. Galvalume offers greater longevity than traditional galvanized steel, and also requires much less maintenance. Galvalume gutters can often be expected to last as long as your roof itself, and sometimes even longer!

Copper is still widely-recognized to be the premier gutter material option. It’s beautiful, requires essentially no maintenance when properly installed, and can be expected to last you for 50 years, or more! The main drawback to copper is cost. Not all homeowners have the budget to be able to afford copper, but if price is no object then you’d be hard-pressed to find a better gutter material.

Why Skywalker Windows & Siding is Your Preferred K-Style Gutter Provider in NC & VA

Looking for a local provider you can trust to handle your seamless K-style gutter installation? Skywalker Windows & Siding serves the NC Piedmont Triad, Piedmont Triangle, Charlotte Metro/Lake Norman area, and a large portion of southern and southwestern Virginia. We provide windows, siding, and other home improvement services, but we also specialize in all things related to roofing, gutters, and gutter guards. Plus, we have the tools, experience, and know-how to be able to manufacture and install your seamless gutters right on site!

Connect with us today, and experience the Skywalker difference for yourself!