GUTTER TYPES
K-Style Gutters – Most common residential style with decorative front profile.
Half-Round Gutters – Rounded shape often used on historic or upscale homes.
Box Gutters – Built into the roof structure or eaves for a concealed appearance.
Seamless Gutters – Custom-cut on-site to eliminate seams and reduce leaks.
Sectional Gutters – Sold in pieces joined together during installation.
Copper Gutters – Durable, upscale metal option that develops patina over time.
Aluminum Gutters – Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and affordable option.
Steel Gutters – Strong, but may rust without proper coating.
Vinyl Gutters – Lightweight plastic gutters ideal for DIY but less durable.

GUTTER COMPONENTS
Downspout – Vertical pipe that carries water from gutter to ground or drain.
Elbow – Curved fitting changing downspout direction.
End Cap – Closes end of gutter run.
Outlet – Connector between gutter and downspout.
Fascia Bracket – Mounting bracket attaching gutter to fascia board.
Hanger – Fastener supporting gutter to keep it from sagging.
Hidden Hanger – Internal support fastener providing clean appearance.
Drop Outlet – Fitting joining gutter to downspout opening.
Miters (Inside/Outside Corners) – Connect gutter runs at corners.
Splash Block – Concrete or plastic piece at downspout base directing water away.
Diverter – Directs rainwater to specific areas or away from foundation.
Leader Head / Collector Box – Decorative box collecting multiple downspouts.
Gutter Guard / Leaf Guard – Screen or cover preventing debris buildup.
Gutter Apron – Flashing directing roof runoff into gutter.
Drip Edge – Metal flashing along roof edge guiding water into gutter.
Expansion Joint – Allows for gutter movement due to temperature changes.

SIZES & MATERIALS
5-Inch Gutters – Standard residential size.
6-Inch Gutters – Oversized option for larger roof areas.
Oversized Downspout (3×4) – Increases water capacity and reduces clogging.
Standard Downspout (2×3) – Common residential size.
Gauge – Metal thickness; lower number means thicker metal.
Galvanized – Steel coated with zinc to prevent rust.
Anodized Aluminum – Treated aluminum for enhanced corrosion resistance.

INSTALLATION & DESIGN TERMS
Pitch (Slope) – Downward angle ensuring proper drainage.
Run – Total length of gutter section.
Drop – Vertical fall distance per foot of run (e.g., 1/16″–1/8″ per foot).
Hanger Spacing – Distance between gutter supports, typically 24″–36″.
Outlet Placement – Position of downspout for optimal flow.
Seam – Joint between two gutter sections.
Sealant – Waterproof compound used at joints and seams.
Splash Edge – Roof edge piece directing water into gutter.
Kick-Out Diverter – Flashing detail redirecting water into gutter at wall intersections.
Downspout Extension – Attachment directing water farther from foundation.
Underground Drain Tile – Buried pipe moving water away from structure.
Rain Chain – Decorative alternative to downspouts guiding water downward.

MAINTENANCE & PERFORMANCE
Clogging – Buildup of leaves or debris restricting flow.
Overflow – When gutters can’t handle roof runoff volume.
Sagging – Gutters pulling away from fascia due to weight or improper fastening.
Leaking – Water escaping through holes, seams, or joints.
Erosion – Soil displacement caused by poor drainage.
Ice Damming – Ice buildup preventing water flow and causing roof leaks.
Flushing – Cleaning process removing debris and checking water flow.
Downspout Snaking – Clearing blockages in downspouts.
Inspection – Routine check for leaks, slope, and attachment issues.
Resealing – Applying fresh sealant to prevent leaks.

DRAINAGE & WATER MANAGEMENT
Grading – Sloping ground away from home to promote drainage.
French Drain – Underground gravel-filled trench redirecting water.
Rain Barrel – Container collecting runoff from downspouts for reuse.
Sump Pump – Pump removing water from low-lying areas or basements.
Foundation Drainage – System preventing water accumulation near foundation.
Catch Basin – Collection pit connected to underground drain systems.
Storm Drain – Public system collecting and diverting runoff.

CODES & STANDARDS
EPA Stormwater Management – Federal guidelines reducing runoff pollution.
International Residential Code (IRC) – Building code governing roof drainage.
Wisconsin State Building Code – Local code dictating gutter design and discharge.
Manufacturer Warranty Terms – Coverage details for material and workmanship.