Rain gutter

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A rain gutter (also known as eavestrough, guttering or just gutter) is a narrow channel, or trough, forming the component of a roof system which collects and diverts rainwater shed by the roof. In many buildings, the purpose of this diversion is to prevent drips off the roof edges. These drips can cause structural damage over time to the walls of a building. However, in others the purpose is also to harvest rainwater, for household or garden use.

Rain gutter can be constructed from a variety of materials, including galvanised or painted steel, copper, PVC and other plastics, concrete, and stone.

Water collected by a rain gutter is fed, usually via a downpipe, to a collection system, either a rainwater tank or a stormwater main or sewer main. In some locations where collection to a main is not feasible, the water is dispersed into stormwater pits.

Different styles of gutter are available to suit the design of the roof, the building method and the desired appearance. Exposed rain gutter is available in a variety of profiles to suit the appearance of the building. Common exposed rain gutter is fixed to the fascia board, which in turn is fixed to the ends of the rafters. A fascia gutter incorporates a rain gutter with a fascia. Box gutter is a deep gutter which is concealed within the structure of the roof. A box gutter is usually applied when the rainwater is to be collected from points within the boundary walls of the building. Water collected by a box gutter is fed to the downpipe via a rainhead.

[edit] Precautions

The rain gutter on houses that have overhanging trees can become blocked with leaves over time and can cause a fire hazard, particularly in bushfire areas. Various styles of mesh and other perforated materials have been applied as leaf guard to help prevent this problem from occurring. In some areas with high bushfire danger, some type of leaf guard is mandated by the building code.

Gutters in colder climates also suffer the effects of freezing. However this can be mitigated through the use of heating cables placed in the trays that become activated in freezing weather.