A Guide to K-Style Gutters

K-style gutters, otherwise known as ogee gutters, resemble the letter ‘K’ from the side. They blend well with modern roofs. K-style gutters are common in asphalt shingles and metal roofs. The k-style gutter profile is popular in both commercial and residential buildings.

Why Are K-Style Gutters Popular?

 K-Style Gutters

K-style gutters are popular for their easy installation. They have a flat back end that attaches to the fascia board. The front end of k-style gutters has curves like crown molding.

For this reason, K-style are the most common gutters in the US. Most homeowners pick K-style gutters to avoid professional installation costs.

The Perks of K-Style Gutters

  • Functional: K-style gutters are 3 to 7 inches deep. They also curve outwards at the front, creating more room for water to fill. K-style gutter materials include copper, vinyl, steel, and aluminum. The material options hold up well during heavy rains.
  • Versatile: K-style gutters are available in sectional and seamless designs. The sections come in 10-foot lengths. K-style seamless gutters are custom-fit for each roof.
  • Easy to install: You can DIY K-style gutters or hire a professional. For DIY, you need screws or nails to reinforce the hangers on this gutter style. It’s easy to secure fasteners to the fascia boards because of the flat back on k gutters.
  • Does not void roof warranty: K-style gutters are non-invasive to your roof. They attach to the fascia board, so you won’t lift shingles or drill into a metal roof.

The Downsides of K-Style Gutters

  • Harbors leaves and dirt: Debris collects on k-style gutters without gutter guards. It might be difficult to clean out dirt from the curved gutter lips. Without proper maintenance, K-style gutters grow mold and mildew on their inner surface.

K-Style Vs. Half-Round Gutters Comparison

K-Style Vs. Half-Round Gutters

K-style gutters are available in up to 40-foot lengths, unlike half-round gutters. Few companies offer half-round gutters in a seamless design.

Half-round sectional gutters need professional installation. They use more brackets and fasteners than k-style gutters. K-style gutters use hangers and a few screws or nails to attach to the fascia board.

K-style gutters are suitable for a fast-pitch roof. They hold twice the water in half-round gutters. It helps maintain high volumes of water collection.

Common K-Style Sizes & Material Options

K-style gutters come in 4-, 5-, 6-, 7-, and 8-inch sizes. 5- and 6-inch are common in residential homes. Besides, there are a variety of material options for K-style gutters.

  • Aluminum makes both sectional and seamless gutters. Aluminum gutters are heavy-duty and rust-resistant. They last up to 20 years. A linear foot of aluminum ogee gutter costs $5 to $11.
  • Galvanized steel is corrosion-resistant due to the zinc coating. Manufacturers also coat the steel for further protection from UV rays and oxidation. A linear foot of galvanized steel k-style gutters costs $4 to $8.
  • Copper is the most expensive k-style gutter material. The copper forms a patina that prevents deterioration of the gutter. You would spend $22 to $30 per linear foot of copper k-style gutters.
  • Vinyl gutters are easy to install since they’re lightweight. But, their lightweight nature makes them not last long in wet climates. Lots of rain and snow weigh them down, making them sag or break. A linear foot of vinyl k-style gutters costs between $2 and $5.
  • Galvalume gutters are steel gutters with an aluminum and zinc coating. These k-style gutters withstand weather fluctuations without breaking. The coating prevents corrosion and rust. The average cost of a linear foot of galvalume k-style gutters is $8 to $12.

Your home’s size and architectural design determine the gutters’ diameter and length. A 6-, 7-, or 8-inch gutter will suffice for large roofs. These sizes cost more than 4- and 5-inch gutters.

Brackets, end caps, mitered corners, and joints, add to the final cost. Elbows and downspouts are also necessary to complete the gutter system. If you choose professional installation, you will incur labor costs.

K-Style Gutter Installation Tips

K-Style Gutter Installation Tips
  • Plan ahead: Draw your gutter system on paper. It will help you know the accessories you need. Plan on the areas where your downspouts will be; clear of any windows and doors.
  • Choose the right gutter material and size: If you live in an area with heavy rains, pick sturdy gutters. Steep roofs should have big gutters since water runs fast to the gutters.
  • Measure your roof pitch: There should be a ¼-inch slope for every 10 feet of gutter. The right slope ensures adequate drainage to the downspout. There should be a downspout for every 20-30 feet of gutter. Rectangular downspouts are ideal for K-style gutters.
  • Do not space your hangers too far apart: The maximum distance between gutter hangers is 36 inches. You can install them closer together if you live in wetter climates.
  • Install leaf guards: Gutter guards keep leaves and debris from clogging your gutters. They save you the regular cleaning routine that gutters need. Gutter guards with heat cables prevent ice dams from forming in your gutters.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Gutter installation requires paying attention to detail. Hiring a professional contractor leaves no room for error. Proper installation helps avoid water damage and future repair costs.

A DIY installation might be cheaper but risky and could cost you more in repairs. Professional installation isn’t necessary if you have the right tools and solid DIY skills.