The terms “eavestrough” and “gutter” are often used interchangeably in reference to the home. This is understandable, as they both serve a similar function, working to prevent water from gathering around the house.
However, there are distinctions between the two. Let’s take a look.
Understanding the Difference Between Eavestroughs and Gutters
Eavestroughs
Whether you are calling them eavestroughs or gutters, odds are, you’re referring to the draining system on your home.
Eavestroughs are exactly as their name suggests: troughs under the eaves of the home. They collect rainwater, melted snow, and any other precipitation that accumulates on your roof before depositing it down the drain spout.
You are likely more familiar with eavestroughs, as they are part of your property. Eavestroughs are what you clean a few times a year, removing leaves and other debris, to allow for the water flow to remain uninterrupted.
Eavestroughs are integral parts of your home. They ensure water moves away from the house, preventing water damage to the roof, attic, and siding.
Gutters
Eavestroughs can be argued to be a type of gutter, thus the name confusion. However, gutters are not eavestroughs.
Gutters are a more generic term and are essentially any repository for runoff water.
Typically, when referring to gutters, one is talking about the dip in the curb of the road. After a particularly big rainstorm or when the snow begins to melt in spring, you’ll notice a stream of water making its way along the curb into the storm drain. This area where the water is being funnelled is the gutter.
Region of North America
The country you’re in may influence which term you are more familiar with. Canadians tend to use “eavestrough” while Americans will more often use “gutter”.
While neither is technically incorrect, as gutters do move water away from the home, eavestroughs are technically the correct term.
However, as the two are used interchangeably, you will still be understood by others no matter how you identify your roofing system.
At City Roofing and Exteriors, we take pride in our work and by serving Calgarians. We work hard to assist our customers in providing proper roofing systems to meet your budget and needs. We guarantee that you will be satisfied with our work. Give us a call at (403) 608-9933 or email us at [email protected].
