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Eavestrough vs. Gutters: Is There a Difference?
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An eavestrough is a trough that connects to your home's eaves, collecting rainwater and redirecting it away from your foundation and siding.
Eavestroughs and gutters are interchangeable terms, though eavestroughs specifically attach to your home's eaves while some gutters attach directly to the roof instead.
Your home benefits from an eavestrough system because it protects your foundation, prevents basement water damage, and shields your siding from water-related deterioration.
Hiring a local gutter installation professional ensures proper installation and secure attachment to your eaves, helping protect your home from water damage and foundation issues.
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Having a drainage system on your roof helps protect your home from water damage, foundation and siding issues, and soil erosion. If you're looking to install an eavestrough or gutter on your home, you may be wondering if there is a difference between these two terms. Below, we break it down to help you in your research.
What Is an Eavestrough?
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As the name suggests, an eavestrough is a trough that connects to your home's eaves to collect rainwater and prevent it from hitting the side of your home and the surrounding perimeters. An eave of a home is part of your roof that hangs over your home's exterior siding. This typically includes a soffit and fascia, where the eavestrough is installed for added security.
The water rolls down your roof and enters the eavestrough channel system, where it’s then redirected toward a drainage system, water collection system, or sewer.
Is There a Difference Between Eavestroughs and Gutters?
When it comes to whether or not there's a difference between eavestroughs and gutters, the best way to look at it is by comparing it to squares and rectangles. All squares are rectangles, but not all rectangles are squares.
Likewise, all eavestroughs are a type of gutter, but not all gutters are eavestroughs—while all eavestroughs connect to the eave of your home, not all gutters connect directly to the eave of a home. Some gutters attach to the roof and not the fascia, though this is a less common installation method that is also less secure.
Overall, most gutters install directly into the eave, so both of the terms are interchangeable despite the subtle difference.
Do I Need Either an Eavestrough or Gutters?
Why you don't absolutely need an eavestrough or gutter system, they are essential for protecting your home's exterior and interior from rainwater. Not only do they help prevent water from collecting around your foundation and entering your basement, but the purpose of gutters is to protect your roof and your siding from water damage. A gutter system also helps prevent your prized garden beds from getting pummeled by rogue rainfall as it cascades down your roof.
In addition, eavestrough or gutter systems can add a bit of curb appeal to your home and increase its value, especially if you leave in an area that experiences its fair share of rainfall or other weather events. These systems are made with a variety of materials that can add extra flair to the exterior of your home while simultaneously playing an important role in protecting it and its foundation.
Most Frequently Cited Gutter Problems
Gutter repairs are a common home maintenance expense, even for systems that can last 20 years or more with proper care. According to responses from 7,200 Angi customers, 26% of homeowners request repairs for loose or sagging gutters, while 12% report problems with water not draining properly, often due to an incorrect gutter slope. These common issues highlight the importance of choosing the right gutter system, whether traditional gutters or eavestroughs, and ensuring proper installation. Selecting a system that fits the home’s design and handles water flow correctly can help prevent these issues over time.
Gutter repairs and replacements reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
5.0★ avg. • 19 total reviews
- Julio V.
Positive experience. As previously stated, the replacement/repair could not be completed (no fault of the plumbing tech) b/c misinformation was rec?d by property management maintenance. Thanks to the plumbing tech for your efforts. Appreciate you!
The Waterworks - Brent C.
Carpet repair done well. Scheduling was easy. Showed up on time.
BR Flooring Installation - Adam E.
Cole has been handling plumbing and general contracting for our four properties over the past three years, and he’s always done a great job. Most recently, he installed a sink and countertop in our retail store where none existed before, and it turned out exactly how we needed. He’s...
ANB Renovations LLC - Emily W.
I am highly satisfied with the window replacement service I received; the professionals from Savvy Exteriors were punctual and did an amazing job that exceeded my expectations.
Savvy Exteriors - Austin Y.
I would recommend this company to anyone! He showed up on time, was friendly, completed a very difficult repair on our dryer vent cover, was responsive, and pricing was extremely fair and competitive. I would have him back to do any of our repairs or cleanings without hesitation!
U.S.A. Dryer Vent, LLC - Micki B.
Everything from initial contact to completion was absolutely top notch. We contacted the business during off hours to leave a message, and the owner still reached out to feel out the issue within minutes. We were scheduled and repaired within 48 hours. I cannot say enough about the...
Supreme brick & chimney - Donald L.
Ace Fireplace Services came to the rescue for my chimney repair. They were quick to pinpoint the issue and worked their magic to fix it. My chimney is now in excellent shape, and I'm a satisfied customer.
Ace Fireplace Services - Lisa S.
On Sunday 2/26 I requested quotes via Angi from 4 refrigerator repair businesses. Northwest Appliance responded to me Monday morning (2/27) and my refrigerator was repaired by noon the same day. Great communication, they did everything they said they would. The technician had the parts on...
- Angie M.
When we had the winter freeze, I called Quantum Waterworks Waterline & Drain Cleaning Services and within 1 hour I received an e-mail and he sent someone out the next day and he was on time, he was nice and did the job quickly and cleaned up after himself. We had a leak in our kitchen from...
Quantum Waterworks Waterline & Drain Cleaning Services, LLC - Jessica F.
Window depot replaced all 14 windows in my house, front door and added a new back door. They did a wonderful job with some tricky windows in this old house. They were quick but efficient and cleaned up everything inside and out. I have already passed their contact information on to my...
Window Depot USA of Central Ohio
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