Square vs round gutters: Which is better?

Gutters are a critical part of every home, ensuring that water is properly drained from the roof to the ground. When searching for new units, it can be difficult to select the correct model that fits your requirements and budget. There are two types of gutters available today: square and round. Surprisingly, all gutters are not built alike and have many different characteristics. When comparing the different types, keep the following tips and information in mind.

Square gutters: Advantages & disadvantages

As suggested by their name, square gutters have a square shape that provides a modern profile suitable for all building types and architecture. Square gutter units are available in two different models: lo-square and hi-square. Lo-square gutters are 110 mm in height, and hi-square gutters are 130 mm in height. Hi-square versions typically cover the edges of most roof sheets and tiles in order to improve their appearance. Lo-square units are neater in appearance than hi-square gutters, and they’re more economical.

Both versions of square gutters offer high water capacities that can easily manage large volumes of water. If you live in a particularly wet and rainy area, then this is a good option for you. Unfortunately, in lighter rainfall areas, square gutters easily clog over time. However, these clogs can be mitigated by adding a gutter guard to break up the fine debris.

Square gutters are most commonly made from Colorbond, galvanised steel, or Zincalume; and they can be purchased in a variety of colors to match the exterior décor of your residence. Square gutters are extremely durable and will last many years with proper maintenance. There are many accessories that can be added to square gutters, including: gutter mitres, fixing brackets, stop ends, and gutter guards.

Round gutters: Advantages & disadvantages

Commonly referred to as “half-round gutters,” when viewed from an angle, these units have the appearance of a circle that’s been split in half. Half-round gutters can be built to have a straight back, or created in a semi-circle. This type is excellent for Spanish, Tuscan, and modern homes due to their clean look and smooth geometry that matches the architecture.

In addition to being aesthetically-pleasing, half round gutters deliver superior water carrying abilities as a result of their larger diameter. Also, they require less maintenance due to their smooth, rounded shape. Therefore, there is fewer chance that debris will block the flow of water. Additionally, these units are much better at naturally flushing out debris during light rain than square gutters.

Also made from Colorbond, galvanised steel, or Zincalume, half round gutters are available in many different colours. They are extremely durable and offer a large number of accessories, including: stop ends, internal and external gutter brackets, and external corners.