If you’re looking into updating your old gutters, you should consider a different gutter profile. In today’s post, local gutter and roofing contractor M & A Roof Home Improvement shares a look at two types of gutter profiles: K-style and half-round.
Most people are familiar with K-style gutters. This angular profile resembles crown molding when seen from the ground, which works with almost every home style. Its box-like profile makes it ideal for steeply sloped roofs, as they generally release high volumes of rainwater.
Many people assumed that the name “K-style” refers to its profile, which some claim looks vaguely like the letter K. But the truth is, the K in K-style is assigned by the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association (SMACNA). K-style is the 11th in a series of gutter profiles, hence, the letter K. K-style gutters are also referred to as “ogee,” in reference to the slip S-shaped outer side of its profile, which resembles the crown molding shape of the same name.
The name “half-round” refers to this gutter type’s simple profile, which resembles the letter U. Half-round gutters are typically installed on traditional style homes such as Victorian and Colonial. Residential roofing and gutter contractors like us offer half-round gutters in various sizes and materials, including copper and aluminum. Generally, half-round gutters have a lower capacity for handling rainwater, compared to K-style gutters of the same size. This is why switching from one style to another requires recalculation, which involves the roof’s slope and local rainfall records, among other factors.
Half-round gutters create a smooth and clean look, making it ideal for home styles that require clean lines. Its curved interior makes it easier to clean and maintain, as it doesn’t have inside corners that may trap dirt and debris. When paired with a gutter protection system, half-round gutters will maintain its efficiency for a longer time.
M & A Roof Home Improvement is your leading provider of roof repair and gutter installation services. Give us a call at (757) 779-5244 or fill out our contact form. We serve customers in Norfolk and Virginia Beach, VA.