When it comes to protecting your home from water damage, the size of your gutters makes a bigger difference than you might think. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that not all gutters are the same-both 5-inch and 6-inch systems are common, but they perform very differently. Choosing the right size can prevent costly issues like basement flooding, foundation cracks, and damaged landscaping.
At Advantage Gutter Guard®, we help homeowners choose the right gutter system to handle heavy rain, protect their property, and keep maintenance to a minimum. Let’s take a closer look at the difference between 5-inch and 6-inch gutters so you can make the best choice for your home.
How Do 5-Inch and 6-Inch Gutters Compare?
The most common residential gutter size is 5-inch, but 6-inch gutters are quickly becoming the preferred option for many homeowners. Here’s why:
- Water Capacity: A 6-inch gutter holds nearly 40% more water than a 5-inch gutter. That extra space makes a big difference during heavy downpours.
- Downspouts: Larger gutters are typically paired with wider downspouts (3×4-inch instead of 2×3-inch), allowing water to flow away from your home faster and more efficiently.
- Roof Size Matters: Bigger roofs collect more rain. If you have a large, steep, or complex roofline, 6-inch gutters are often the smarter choice.
When 6-Inch Gutters Make Sense
You may want to consider upgrading to 6-inch gutters if your home has:
- A large roof area that channels significant amounts of water.
- Multiple valleys where water converges and runs off quickly.
- Steep pitches that increase the speed of water flow.
- Long rooflines which require the gutters to be able to hold more water before spilling over.
In these situations, 5-inch gutters may struggle to keep up, leading to overflow and potential water damage.
Do 6-Inch Gutters Look Too Big?
A common concern homeowners have is whether 6-inch gutters will look oversized. The truth is, most people can’t tell the difference unless they’re standing right next to the gutter. In fact, many homeowners prefer the look of 6-inch gutters because they provide a cleaner, more proportionate appearance on larger homes.
What About Cost?
Since 6-inch gutters use more material, they are typically more expensive than 5-inch gutters. However, the added protection often outweighs the extra investment. Preventing foundation repairs, basement flooding, or siding damage can save thousands of dollars in the long run.
The Best of Both Worlds: Properly Sized Gutters + Clog-Free Protection
No matter which size gutter you choose, the key is keeping them free of clogs. A properly sized gutter system won’t perform as it should if it’s constantly blocked with leaves and debris. That’s where Advantage Gutter Guard® makes the difference.
Our patented gutter protection system ensures water flows freely while keeping out leaves, sticks, and other debris-so you get maximum protection with minimal maintenance. Pairing 6-inch gutters with Advantage Gutter Guard® means your home will be ready to handle even the heaviest rainfall, worry-free.
Final Thoughts
While 5-inch gutters are still common, 6-inch gutters offer superior performance for many modern homes, especially those with large or complex rooflines. If you’re considering upgrading, take into account your roof size, pitch, and how much water your home needs to manage.
At Advantage Gutter Guard®, we specialize in custom gutter solutions that combine the right size system with permanent protection. Our goal is to keep your home safe from water damage-without the hassle of cleaning gutters.