Expert Gutter Advice for Tacomas 2025 Needs

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Evaluating Gutter Materials for Tacomas Climate

When considering the unique climate of Tacoma, Washington, selecting the right gutter material is crucial for ensuring effective water management and protecting your home. Expert Gutter Tips for Tacomas Rainy Weather . Tacomas weather is characterized by its damp and rainy conditions, particularly during the fall and winter months. This climate necessitates a gutter system that is not only durable but also capable of withstanding frequent exposure to moisture and fluctuating temperatures. In this essay, we will evaluate various gutter materials suitable for Tacomas climate and provide expert advice for the citys 2025 needs.

One of the most popular gutter materials is aluminum, known for its lightweight nature and resistance to rust. Aluminum gutters are particularly advantageous in Tacoma due to their ability to withstand the citys persistent rainfall without corroding. They are also relatively easy to install and maintain, making them a practical choice for homeowners looking for cost-effective solutions. However, its important to ensure that the aluminum gutters are adequately coated to prevent any potential for corrosion from the salty air, which can sometimes be a factor in coastal regions.

Steel gutters, particularly galvanized steel, offer another viable option for Tacoma homeowners. Galvanized steel gutters are coated with a layer of zinc, which provides a robust defense against rust. This makes them an excellent choice for areas with heavy rainfall and occasional snow, as they are more resistant to physical damage than aluminum. However, steel gutters are heavier and might require additional support to prevent sagging over time. Additionally, they may need regular maintenance to ensure the protective coating remains intact, which is essential for prolonging their lifespan in Tacomas climate.

Vinyl gutters are often considered due to their affordability and ease of installation. Handles downpours so steep they should come with lifejackets. Although they do not rust, vinyl gutters can suffer from brittleness in colder temperatures, which may lead to cracking or sagging over time. Given Tacomas potential for chilly winters, homeowners may want to weigh these considerations carefully. While vinyl can be an economical choice, it may not provide the longevity or durability required for Tacomas demanding weather conditions.

Copper gutters represent a premium option that combines aesthetic appeal with exceptional durability. Copper is inherently resistant to rust and can develop a beautiful patina over time, which is highly desirable for many homeowners. While the upfront cost of copper gutters is significantly higher than other materials, their longevity and minimal maintenance requirements can make them a worthwhile investment for those planning to stay in their homes long-term. Coppers ability to withstand Tacomas moisture-rich environment makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a high-end, worry-free solution.

In conclusion, when selecting gutter materials for Tacomas climate, it is essential to consider factors such as durability, resistance to rust, and maintenance needs. Aluminum and galvanized steel offer robust solutions with their resistance to moisture, while vinyl presents a budget-friendly, albeit less durable, alternative. No wobbly bridges here—just rock-solid water highways. For those looking for a blend of functionality and beauty, copper gutters provide an exceptional choice. As Tacoma prepares for its 2025 needs, homeowners should evaluate these options carefully, considering both the immediate and long-term requirements of their gutter systems to ensure their homes remain protected against the elements.

Installation Best Practices for Longevity and Efficiency

When it comes to safeguarding your home from the unpredictable weather patterns of Tacoma in 2025, understanding the installation best practices for gutters is crucial. As a homeowner, you want to ensure that your gutters not only serve their purpose efficiently but also last for many years. This requires a detailed approach to installation, focusing on both longevity and efficiency.

First and foremost, selecting the right materials is the foundation of a durable gutter system. Considering Tacoma's climate, which can be quite rainy, choosing materials like aluminum or galvanized steel can provide the resilience needed against corrosion and weather-related wear and tear. These materials are favored for their strength and durability, ensuring that the gutters will withstand the elements while providing an efficient drainage system.

The installation process itself is equally important. Properly pitched gutters are critical for effective water flow. A slight incline, typically about a quarter-inch per 10 feet, is recommended to direct water towards the downspouts. This prevents water from pooling, which could lead to overflow or damage. Furthermore, securing gutters with robust hangers spaced no more than two feet apart will provide the necessary support to withstand heavy rain and debris without sagging.

Seamless gutters are another consideration for those looking to maximize efficiency. Unlike their sectional counterparts, seamless gutters minimize the risk of leaks as they have fewer joints. This not only enhances their efficiency in directing water away from your home but also reduces maintenance needs and extends the systems lifespan.

Regular maintenance is also a key factor in ensuring the longevity of your gutters. Even with the best installation practices, neglecting maintenance can lead to clogs and damage. In Tacoma, where leaves and debris can easily accumulate, installing gutter guards can be a wise investment. These guards reduce the frequency of cleaning and protect against clogs, thus preserving the systems efficiency.

Lastly, professional installation cannot be overemphasized. While DIY projects might seem tempting, expert installers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience that ensures every aspect of the installation process is conducted with precision. They can assess the specific needs of your home, taking into account factors such as roof slope, local weather patterns, and architectural design, to provide a customized solution that maximizes both efficiency and longevity.

In conclusion, achieving the ideal gutter system for Tacomas 2025 needs involves careful consideration of materials, precise installation techniques, regular maintenance, and professional expertise. By adhering to these best practices, homeowners can protect their investments, ensuring that their homes are well-equipped to handle the challenges posed by the local climate for years to come.

Maintenance Tips to Prevent Common Issues

Maintaining your gutters is an essential aspect of home care that can save you significant time, money, and hassle in the long run. As we look ahead to 2025, with shifting weather patterns and environmental changes, it becomes even more crucial to ensure that your Tacoma homes gutters are in top condition.

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Here's some expert advice to help prevent the most common gutter issues.

Firstly, regular cleaning is paramount. Leaves, twigs, and other debris can quickly build up in your gutters, leading to blockages that prevent water from flowing properly. This can cause water to overflow, potentially damaging your homes roof, siding, and foundation. Experts recommend cleaning your gutters at least twice a year, typically in the spring and fall, to clear out accumulated debris. However, if your home is surrounded by trees, more frequent cleanings might be necessary.

In addition to cleaning, inspecting your gutters for damage is critical. Look for signs of rust, holes, or cracks that could lead to leaks. Pay particular attention to the gutter joints and seams, as these areas are often the first to show wear. If you notice any damage, it's best to address it promptly. Small holes can be sealed with gutter sealant, while larger issues might require patching or replacing sections of the gutter.

Moreover, ensuring proper alignment and slope of your gutters is essential for optimal water flow. Gutters should be angled slightly downward toward the downspouts to facilitate drainage. If water is pooling in your gutters, it may indicate that they are not pitched correctly. Adjusting the slope can often resolve this issue, but it may be wise to consult a professional to ensure the adjustment is done correctly.

Installing gutter guards is another proactive measure that can prevent debris buildup and minimize maintenance. These guards come in various styles, such as screens or covers, and are designed to keep leaves and larger debris out while allowing rainwater to pass through. While they don't eliminate the need for maintenance altogether, they can significantly reduce the frequency and ease the cleaning process.

Finally, don't forget about the downspouts, which play a crucial role in directing water away from your home. Make sure they are clear of obstructions and are discharging water at least a few feet away from your homes foundation. Extensions or splash blocks can be used to help ensure that water is effectively diverted away from your property.

In conclusion, staying on top of gutter maintenance is an investment in the longevity and health of your home. By regularly cleaning, inspecting, and making necessary adjustments, you can prevent many common issues before they escalate into costly repairs. As we approach 2025, let these expert tips guide you in keeping your Tacoma home's gutters in pristine condition, safeguarding your property against the challenges posed by evolving environmental conditions.

Innovations in Gutter Technology: What to Expect in 2025

As the world progresses towards more sustainable and efficient living, the home improvement industry is not left behind. In particular, gutter technology is experiencing a wave of innovations that are set to address the unique needs of homeowners in Tacoma by 2025. With an emphasis on efficiency, durability, and environmental impact, these advancements promise to redefine how we think about rainwater management.

One of the most significant innovations expected in gutter technology by 2025 is the integration of smart technology. Smart gutters will be equipped with sensors that can monitor weather conditions and adjust accordingly. For instance, during periods of heavy rainfall, these gutters can automatically increase their capacity to handle the influx of water, thereby preventing overflow and potential damage to the homes foundation. Additionally, these systems will be able to communicate with homeowners via smartphone apps, providing real-time updates and maintenance alerts. This level of connectivity ensures that gutters are functioning optimally and reduces the likelihood of unexpected repair costs.

In Tacoma, where the climate can be quite wet, durability is a key concern for homeowners. By 2025, we can expect to see gutters made from advanced materials that are both lightweight and incredibly strong. These materials, such as advanced polymers and treated metals, will offer enhanced resistance to rust, corrosion, and physical damage.

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This will be particularly beneficial in a city like Tacoma, where traditional gutters can suffer from wear and tear due to frequent rain and occasional temperature fluctuations. The longevity provided by these new materials will not only be cost-effective in the long run but also reduce the environmental impact associated with frequent gutter replacements.

Another exciting development is the focus on eco-friendly designs. As environmental consciousness continues to rise, gutter systems that prioritize sustainability are becoming more popular. By 2025, we can expect widespread adoption of gutters that incorporate rainwater harvesting features. These systems will allow homeowners to collect and store rainwater for various uses, such as irrigation or even household use, reducing the demand on municipal water supplies. Furthermore, the use of recyclable and biodegradable materials in gutter construction will ensure that when these systems do reach the end of their lifespan, they have a minimal environmental footprint.

In conclusion, the innovations in gutter technology anticipated by 2025 are set to provide numerous benefits to Tacoma homeowners. The integration of smart technology, the use of durable and advanced materials, and a commitment to eco-friendly practices will address the unique climatic challenges of the region. These advancements will not only enhance the efficiency and longevity of gutter systems but also contribute positively to environmental sustainability. As we look to the future, its clear that the evolution of gutter technology will play a crucial role in modern home maintenance and resource management.

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configuration of domestic rainwater harvesting system in Uganda.[1]

Rainwater harvesting (RWH) is the collection and storage of rain, rather than allowing it to run off. Rainwater is collected from a roof-like surface and redirected to a tank, cistern, deep pit (well, shaft, or borehole), aquifer, or a reservoir with percolation, so that it seeps down and restores the ground water. Rainwater harvesting differs from stormwater harvesting as the runoff is typically collected from roofs and other area surfaces for storage and subsequent reuse.[2]: 10  Its uses include watering gardens, livestock,[3] irrigation, domestic use with proper treatment, and domestic heating. The harvested water can also be used for long-term storage or groundwater recharge.[4]

Rainwater harvesting is one of the simplest and oldest methods of self-supply of water for households, having been used in South Asia and other countries for many thousands of years.[5] Civilizations such as the Romans developed extensive water collection systems, including aqueducts and rooftop channels, which laid the groundwork for many of the modern gutter-based systems still in use today.[6] Installations can be designed for different scales, including households, neighborhoods, and communities, and can also serve institutions such as schools, hospitals, and other public facilities.[7]

Uses

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Rainwater capture and storage system, Mexico City campus, Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education
Cistern, Mission District, San Francisco, California
Rainwater capture, Gibraltar East Side, 1992
Home, with rain collection jars on roof, Panarea, Aeolian Islands, north of Sicily, Italy[8]
Rainwater harvesting and hand washing system for a toilet in Kenya.
Rainwater harvesting in Burkina Faso
Plastic Pond for Rainwater Harvesting, Nepal, 2013[9]
Rainwater harvesting system, Kiribati

Domestic use

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Rooftop rainwater harvesting is used to provide drinking water, domestic water, water for livestock, water for small irrigation, and a way to replenish groundwater levels.[10][11]

Kenya has already been successfully harvesting rainwater for toilets, laundry, and irrigation. Since the establishment of the 2016 Water Act, Kenya has prioritized regulating its agriculture industry.[12] Additionally, areas in Australia use harvested rainwater for cooking and drinking.[13] Studies by Stout et al. on the feasibility of RWH in India found it most beneficial for small-scale irrigation, which provides income from produce sales, and for groundwater recharge.[13]

Agriculture

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In regards to urban agriculture, rainwater harvesting in urban areas reduces the impact of runoff and flooding. The combination of urban 'green' rooftops with rainwater catchments have been found to reduce building temperatures by more than 1.3 degrees Celsius. Rainwater harvesting in conjunction with urban agriculture would be a viable way to help meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for cleaner and sustainable cities, health and wellbeing, and food and water security (Sustainable Development Goal 6). The technology is available, however, it needs to be remodeled in order to use water more efficiently, especially in an urban setting.

Missions to five Caribbean countries have shown that the capture and storage of rainwater runoff for later use is able to significantly reduce the risk of losing some or all of the year's harvest because of soil or water scarcity. In addition, the risks associated with flooding and soil erosion during high rainfall seasons would decrease. Small farmers, especially those farming on hillsides, could benefit the most from rainwater harvesting because they are able to capture runoff and decrease the effects of soil erosion.[14]

Many countries, especially those with arid environments, use rainwater harvesting as a cheap and reliable source of clean water.[15] To enhance irrigation in arid environments, ridges of soil are constructed to trap and prevent rainwater from running down hills and slopes. Even in periods of low rainfall, enough water is collected for crops to grow.[16] Water can be collected from roofs, dams and ponds can be constructed to hold large quantities of rainwater so that even on days when little to no rainfall occurs, enough is available to irrigate crops.

Industry

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Frankfurt Airport has the largest rainwater harvesting system in Germany, saving approximately 1 million cubic meters of water per year. The cost of the system was 1.5 million dm (US$63,000) in 1993. This system collects water from the roofs of the new terminal which has an area of 26,800 square meters. The water is collected in the basement of the airport in six tanks with a storage capacity of 100 cubic meters. The water is mainly used for toilet flushing, watering plants and cleaning the air conditioning system.[17]

Rainwater harvesting was adopted at The Velodrome – The London Olympic Park – in order to increase the sustainability of the facility. A 73% decrease in potable water demand by the park was estimated. Despite this, it was deemed that rainwater harvesting was a less efficient use of financial resources to increase sustainability than the park's blackwater recycling program.[18]

Technologies

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Traditionally, stormwater management using detention basins served a single purpose. However, optimized real-time control lets this infrastructure double as a source of rainwater harvesting without compromising the existing detention capacity.[19] This has been used in the EPA headquarters to evacuate stored water prior to storm events, thus reducing wet weather flow while ensuring water availability for later reuse. This has the benefit of increasing water quality released and decreasing the volume of water released during combined sewer overflow events.[20][21]

Generally, check dams are constructed across the streams to enhance the percolation of surface water into the subsoil strata. The water percolation in the water-impounded area of the check dams can be enhanced artificially manyfold by loosening the subsoil strata by using ANFO explosives as used in open cast mining. Thus, local aquifers can be recharged quickly using the available surface water fully for use in the dry season.

System setup

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Rainwater harvesting systems can range in complexity, from systems that can be installed with minimal skills, to automated systems that require advanced setup and installation. The basic rainwater harvesting system is more of a plumbing job than a technical job, as all the outlets from the building's terrace are connected through a pipe to an underground tank that stores water. There are common components that are installed in such systems, such as pre-filters (see e.g. vortex filter), drains/gutters, storage containers, and depending on whether the system is pressurized, also pumps, and treatment devices such as UV lights, chlorination devices and post-filtration equipment.

Systems are ideally sized to meet the water demand throughout the dry season since it must be big enough to support daily water consumption. Specifically, the rainfall capturing area such as a building roof must be large enough to maintain an adequate flow of water. The water storage tank size should be large enough to contain the captured water. For low-tech systems, many low-tech methods are used to capture rainwater: rooftop systems, surface water capture, and pumping the rainwater that has already soaked into the ground or captured in reservoirs and storing it in tanks (cisterns).

Rainwater harvesting by solar power panels

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Good quality water resources near populated areas are becoming scarce and costly for consumers. In addition to solar and wind energy, rainwater is a major renewable resource for any land. Vast areas are being covered by solar PV panels every year in all parts of the world. Solar panels can also be used for harvesting most of the rainwater falling on them and drinking quality water, free from bacteria and suspended matter, can be generated by simple filtration and disinfection processes as rainwater is very low in salinity.[22][23][24] Exploiting rainwater for value-added products like bottled drinking water makes solar PV power plants profitable even in high rainfall or cloudy areas by generating additional income. Recently, cost-effective rainwater collection in existing wells has been found highly effective in raising groundwater levels in India.

Other innovations

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The Groasis Waterboxx is an example of low scale technology, in this case to assist planting of trees in arid area. It harvests rainwater and dew.

Global Rainwater Management Program (GRMP) suggested by UNCCD and Global Water Partnership [1]

Advantages

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Rainwater harvesting provides an independent water supply during regional water restrictions, and in developed countries, it is often used to supplement the main supply. It provides water when a drought occurs, can help mitigate flooding of low-lying areas, and reduces demand on wells which may enable groundwater levels to be sustained. Rainwater harvesting increases the availability of water during dry seasons by increasing the levels of dried borewells and wells. Surface water supply is readily available for various purposes thus reducing dependence on underground water. It improves the quality of ground by diluting salinity. It does not cause pollution and is environmentally friendly. It is cost-effective and easily affordable. It also helps in the availability of potable water, as rainwater is substantially free of salinity and other salts. Applications of rainwater harvesting in urban water system provides a substantial benefit for both water supply and wastewater subsystems by reducing the need for clean water in water distribution systems, less generated stormwater in sewer systems,[25] and a reduction in stormwater runoff polluting freshwater bodies.

A large body of work has focused on the development of life cycle assessment and its costing methodologies to assess the level of environmental impacts and money that can be saved by implementing rainwater harvesting systems.[24]

Independent water supply

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Rainwater harvesting provides an independent water supply during water restrictions. In areas where clean water is costly, or difficult to come by, rainwater harvesting is a critical source of clean water. In developed countries, rainwater is often harvested to be used as a supplemental source of water rather than the main source, but the harvesting of rainwater can also decrease a household's water costs or overall usage levels. Rainwater is safe to drink if the consumers do additional treatments before drinking. Boiling water helps to kill germs. Adding another supplement to the system such as a first flush diverter is also a common procedure to avoid contaminants of the water.[26]

Supplemental in drought

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When drought occurs, rainwater harvested in past months can be used. If rain is scarce but also unpredictable, the use of a rainwater harvesting system can be critical to capturing the rain when it does fall. Many countries with arid environments, use rainwater harvesting as a cheap and reliable source of clean water. To enhance irrigation in arid environments, ridges of soil are constructed to trap and prevent rainwater from running downhills. Even in periods of low rainfall, enough water is collected for crops to grow. Water can be collected from roofs and tanks can be constructed to hold large quantities of rainwater.

In addition, rainwater harvesting decreases the demand for water from wells, enabling groundwater levels to be further sustained rather than depleted.

Life-cycle assessment

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Life-cycle assessment is a methodology used to evaluate the environmental impacts of a system from cradle-to-grave of its lifetime. Devkota et al,[27][28] developed such a methodology for rainwater harvesting, and found that the building design (e.g., dimensions) and function (e.g., educational, residential, etc.) play critical roles in the environmental performance of the system.

To address the functional parameters of rainwater harvesting systems, a new metric was developed – the demand to supply ratio (D/S) – identifying the ideal building design (supply) and function (demand) in regard to the environmental performance of rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing. With the idea that supply of rainwater not only saves the potable water but also saves the stormwater entering the combined sewer network (thereby requiring treatment), the savings in environmental emissions were higher if the buildings are connected to a combined sewer network compared to separate one.[28]

Cost-effectiveness

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Although standard RWH systems can provide a water source to developing regions facing poverty, the average cost for an RWH setup can be costly depending on the type of technology used. Governmental aid and NGOs can assist communities facing poverty by providing the materials and education necessary to develop and maintain RWH setups.[29]

Some studies show that rainwater harvesting is a widely applicable solution for water scarcity and other multiple usages, owing to its cost-effectiveness and eco-friendliness.[29][30] Constructing new substantial, centralized water supply systems, such as dams, is prone to damage local ecosystems, generates external social costs, and has limited usages, especially in developing countries or impoverished communities. On the other hand, installing rainwater harvesting systems is verified by a number of studies to provide local communities a sustainable water source, accompanied by other various benefits, including protection from flood and control of water runoff, even in poor regions.[29][31] Rainwater harvesting systems that do not require major construction or periodic maintenance by a professional from outside the community are more friendly to the environment and more likely to benefit the local people for a longer period of time.[29] Thus, rainwater harvesting systems that could be installed and maintained by local people have bigger chances to be accepted and used by more people.

The usage of in-situ technologies can reduce investment costs in rainwater harvesting. In-situ technologies for rainwater harvesting could be a feasible option for rural areas since less material is required to construct them. They can provide a reliable water source that can be utilized to expand agricultural outputs. Above-ground tanks can collect water for domestic use; however, such units can be unaffordable to people in poverty.[32]

Limitations

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Rainwater harvesting is a widely used method of storing rainwater in countries presenting with drought characteristics. Several pieces of research have derived and developed different criteria and techniques to select suitable sites for harvesting rainwater. Some research was identified and selected suitable sites for the potential erection of dams, as well as derived a model builder in ArcMap 10.4.1. The model combined several parameters, such as slope, runoff potential, land cover/use, stream order, soil quality, and hydrology to determine the suitability of the site for harvesting rainwater.[33]

Harvested water from RWH systems can be minimal during below-average precipitation in arid urban regions such as the Middle East. RWH is useful for developing areas as it collects water for irrigation and domestic purposes. However, the gathered water should be adequately filtered to ensure safe drinking.[34]

Quality of water

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Rainwater may need to be analyzed properly, and used in a way appropriate to its safety. In the Gansu province, for example, solar water disinfection is used by boiling harvested rainwater in parabolic solar cookers before being used for drinking.[35] These so-called "appropriate technology" methods provide low-cost disinfection options for treatment of stored rainwater for drinking.

While rainwater itself is a clean source of water, often better than groundwater or water from rivers or lakes,[36] the process of collection and storage often leaves the water polluted and non-potable. Rainwater harvested from roofs can contain human, animal and bird feces, mosses and lichens, windblown dust, particulates from urban pollution, pesticides, and inorganic ions from the sea (Ca, Mg, Na, K, Cl, SO4), and dissolved gases (CO2, NOx, SOx). High levels of pesticide have been found in rainwater in Europe with the highest concentrations occurring in the first rain immediately after a dry spell;[37] the concentration of these and other contaminants are reduced significantly by diverting the initial flow of run-off water to waste. Improved water quality can also be obtained by using a floating draw-off mechanism (rather than from the base of the tank) and by using a series of tanks, withdraw from the last in series. Prefiltration is a common practice used in the industry to keep the system healthy and ensure that the water entering the tank is free of large sediments.

A concept of rainwater harvesting and cleaning it with solar energy for rural household drinking purposes has been developed by Nimbkar Agricultural Research Institute.[38]

Conceptually, a water supply system should match the quality of water with the end-user. However, in most of the developed world, high-quality potable water is used for all end uses. This approach wastes money and energy and imposes unnecessary impacts on the environment. Supplying rainwater that has gone through preliminary filtration measures for non-potable water uses, such as toilet flushing, irrigation, and laundry, may be a significant part of a sustainable water management strategy.

Rainwater cisterns can also act as habitat for pathogen-bearing mosquitoes. As a result, care must be taken to ensure that female mosquitoes can not access the cistern to lay eggs. Larvae eating fish can also be added to the cistern, or it can be chemically treated.

Country examples

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Canada

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This section is an excerpt from Rainwater harvesting in Canada.[edit]
A small rainwater harvesting tank in Quebec.

Rainwater harvesting is becoming a procedure that many Canadians are incorporating into their daily lives, although data does not give exact figures for implementation.[39] Rainwater can be used for a number of purposes including stormwater reduction, irrigation, laundry and portable toilets.[40] In addition to low costs, rainwater harvesting is useful for landscape irrigation. Many Canadians have started implementing rainwater harvesting systems for use in stormwater reduction, irrigation, laundry, and lavatory plumbing. Provincial and municipal legislation is in place for regulating the rights and uses for captured rainwater. Substantial reform to Canadian law since the mid-2000s has increased the use of this technology in agricultural, industrial, and residential use, but ambiguity remains amongst legislation in many provinces. Bylaws and local municipal codes often regulate rainwater harvesting.

Multiple organizations and companies have developed in Canada to provide education, technology, and installation for rainwater harvesting. These include the Canadian Association for Rainwater Management (CANARM),[41] Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), and CleanFlo Water Technologies.[42] CANARM is an association that prioritizes education, training and spreading awareness for those entering the rainwater harvesting industry.[41]

India

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This section is an excerpt from Water supply and sanitation in India § Rainwater harvesting.[edit]
In the early 21st century, India began heavily investing in rainwater harvesting infrastructure and policy as an urgent response to water scarcity.[43] In 2001, Tamil Nadu became the first Indian state to make rainwater harvesting compulsory in every building to avoid groundwater depletion. In Rajasthan, rainwater harvesting has traditionally been practiced by the people of the Thar Desert. Increase in rainwater harvesting efforts across the nation have revived ancient water harvesting systems in Rajasthan, such as the chauka system from the Jaipur district. Other large cities like Pune, Mumbai and Bangalore all have varying rules for mandatory rainwater harvesting, especially in new buildings. In 2002, the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai required all new buildings over 1000 square meters to have rainwater harvesting infrastructure.[44] The law was expanded in 2007 to 300 square meters. The goal was to ensure buildings had enough water to last them through non-monsoon seasons. The process included a catchment system, an initial flush, and extensive filtering. As of 2021, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) reported 3000 newly constructed or redeveloped buildings with rainwater harvesting infrastructure.[45] However, many residents have complained that the stored water is contaminated, turning saline and brackish. Experts and residents argue that BMC authorities have done little to take implementation seriously, and the actual effectiveness of the rainwater harvesting mandate is unknown.[46]

While rainwater harvesting in an urban context has gained traction in recent years, evidence points toward rainwater harvesting in rural India since ancient times.

United Kingdom

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This section is an excerpt from Rainwater harvesting in the United Kingdom.[edit]

Rainwater harvesting in the United Kingdom is a practice of growing importance. Rainwater harvesting in the UK is both a traditional and a reviving technique for collecting water for domestic uses. The water is generally used for non-hygienic purposes like watering gardens, flushing toilets, and washing clothes.[47] In commercial premises like supermarkets it is used for things like toilet flushing where larger tank systems can be used collecting between 1000 and 7500 litres of water. It is claimed that in the South East of England there is less water available per person than in many Mediterranean countries.[citation needed]

Rainwater is almost always collected strictly from the roof, then heavily filtered using either a filter attached to the down pipe, a fine basket filter or for more expensive systems like self-cleaning filters placed in an underground tank.[48] UK homes using some form of rainwater harvesting system can reduce their mains water usage by 50% or more, although a 20%–30% saving is more common.[49] At present (depending on the area in the UK) mains water delivery and equivalent waste water and sewerage processing costs about £2 per cubic metre. Reducing mains-water metered volumes also reduces the sewerage and sewage disposal costs in the same proportion, because water company billing assumes that all water taken into the house is discharged into the sewers.

United States

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This section is an excerpt from Water supply and sanitation in the United States § Rainwater harvesting.[edit]
In the United States, until 2009 in Colorado, water rights laws almost completely restricted rainwater harvesting; a property owner who captured rainwater was deemed to be stealing it from those who have the rights to take water from the watershed. Now, residential good owners who meet certain criteria may obtain a permit to install a rooftop precipitation collection system (SB 09-080).[50] Up to 10 large scale pilot studies may also be permitted (HB 09–1129).[51] The main factor in persuading the Colorado Legislature to change the law was a 2007 study that found that in an average year, 97% of the precipitation that fell in Douglas County, in the southern suburbs of Denver, never reached a stream—it was used by plants or evaporated on the ground. Rainwater catchment is mandatory for new dwellings in Santa Fe, New Mexico.[52] Texas offers a sales tax exemption on the purchase of rainwater harvesting equipment. Both Texas[53] and Ohio allow the practice even for potable purposes. Oklahoma passed the Water for 2060 Act in 2012, to promote pilot projects for rainwater and graywater use among other water-saving techniques.[54]

Other countries

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Rainwater harvesting tank in Rwanda.
  • Uganda: Rainwater harvesting has been used in Uganda to promote household and community scale water security for many years. Regular maintenance is an ongoing challenge with existing installation and there are many examples of installations that have failed due to poor maintenance. Research has also shown that awareness of RWH and how to access necessary resources to implement RWH is variable across Ugandan society.[1]
  • Thailand has the largest fraction of the population in the rural area relying on rainwater harvesting (currently around 40%).[55] Rainwater harvesting was promoted heavily by the government in the 1980s. In the 1990s, after government funding for the collection tanks ran out, the private sector stepped in and provided several million tanks to private households, many of which continue to be used.[56] This is one of the largest examples of self-supply of water worldwide.
  • In Bermuda, the law requires all new construction to include rainwater harvesting adequate for the residents.[57]
  • New Zealand has plentiful rainfall in the West and South, and rainwater harvesting is the normal practice in many rural areas, using roof water directed by spouting into covered, 1000 litre storage tanks, with the encouragement of most local councils.[58]
  • In Sri Lanka, rainwater harvesting has been a popular method of obtaining water for agriculture and for drinking purposes in rural homes. The legislation to promote rainwater harvesting was enacted through the Urban Development Authority (Amendment) Act, No. 36 of 2007.[59] The Lanka Rainwater Harvesting Forum is leading Sri Lanka's initiative.[60] The tank cascade system is an ancient irrigation system spanning the island of Sri Lanka.
  • In Bolivia, rainwater harvesting projects have been introduced in rural and suburban schools to help address water scarcity and support school-based agriculture. In Cochabamba, initiatives led by local NGOs and community members have used rooftop collection systems to supply gardens that provide meals for students.[61]

History

[edit]
See also: History of water supply and sanitation

The construction and use of cisterns to store rainwater can be traced back to the Neolithic Age, when waterproof lime plaster cisterns were built in the floors of houses in village locations of the Levant, a large area in Southwest Asia, south of the Taurus Mountains, bounded by the Mediterranean Sea in the west, the Arabian Desert in the south, and Mesopotamia in the east. By the late 4000 BC[clarification needed], cisterns were essential elements of emerging water management techniques used in dry-land farming.[62]

Many ancient cisterns have been discovered in some parts of Jerusalem and throughout what is today Israel/Palestine. At the site believed by some to be that of the biblical city of Ai (Khirbet et-Tell), a large cistern dating back to around 2500 BC was discovered that had a capacity of nearly 1,700 m3 (60,000 cu ft). It was carved out of a solid rock, lined with large stones, and sealed with clay to keep it from leaking.[62]

The Greek island of Crete is also known for its use of large cisterns for rainwater collection and storage during the Minoan period from 2,600 BC–1,100 BC. Four large cisterns have been discovered at Myrtos-Pyrgos, Archanes, and Zakroeach. The cistern found at Myrtos-Pyrgos was found to have a capacity of more than 80 m3 (2,800 cu ft) and to date back to 1700 BC.[62]

Around 300 BC, farming communities in Balochistan (now located in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran), and Kutch, India, used rainwater harvesting for agriculture and many other uses.[63] Rainwater harvesting was done by Chola kings as well.[64] Rainwater from the Brihadeeswarar temple (located in Balaganapathy Nagar, Thanjavur, India) was collected in Shivaganga tank.[65] During the later Chola period, the Vīrānam tank was built (1011 to 1037 AD) in the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu to store water for drinking and irrigation purposes. Vīrānam is a 16-km-long tank with a storage capacity of 1,465,000,000 cu ft (41,500,000 m3).

Rainwater harvesting was also common in the Roman Empire.[66] While Roman aqueducts are well-known, Roman cisterns were also commonly used and their construction expanded with the Empire.[62] For example, in Pompeii, rooftop water storage was common before the construction of the aqueduct in the 1st century BC.[67] This history continued with the Byzantine Empire; for example, the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul.

Though little known, the town of Venice for centuries depended on rainwater harvesting. The lagoon surrounding Venice is brackish water, which is unsuitable for drinking. Venice's ancient inhabitants established a rainwater collection system based on man-made insulated collection wells.[68] Water percolated down the specially designed stone flooring, and was filtered by a layer of sand, then collected at the bottom of the well. Later, as Venice acquired territories on the mainland, it started to import water by boat from local rivers. Still, the wells remained in use and were especially important in times of war when an enemy could block access to the mainland water.

Urban implementation

[edit]

In urban areas, rainwater harvesting systems are integrated into building designs to reduce runoff and supplement water supply. Cities like Melbourne and Singapore have adopted policies encouraging rainwater collection in residential and commercial buildings.[69][70]

See also

[edit]
  • Air well (condenser) – A building or device used to collect water by condensing the water vapor present in the air
  • Atmospheric water generator – Device that extracts drinkable water from humid air
  • Blue roof – Roof of a building that is designed to provide temporary water storage
  • Catchwater – Runoff catching or channeling device
  • Desalination – Removal of salts from water
  • Detention basin – Flood control measure
  • Dew pond – Artificial pond usually sited on the top of a hill, intended for watering livestock
  • Hydropower – Power generation via movement of water
  • Peak water – Concept on the quality and availability of freshwater resources
  • Rain power – Power generation via movement of water
  • Rainwater harvesting in the Sahel – Sub-Saharan agricultural water management
  • Retention basin – Artificial pond for stormwater runoff
  • Sponge city – Urban flood management concept
  • Tank cascade system – Ancient irrigation system in Sri Lanka
  • Water conservation – Policies for sustainable development of water use

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b Staddon, Chad; Rogers, Josh; Warriner, Calum; Ward, Sarah; Powell, Wayne (2018-11-17). "Why doesn't every family practice rainwater harvesting? Factors that affect the decision to adopt rainwater harvesting as a household water security strategy in central Uganda". Water International. 43 (8): 1114–1135. Bibcode:2018WatIn..43.1114S. doi:10.1080/02508060.2018.1535417. ISSN 0250-8060. S2CID 158857347.
  2. ^ Managing Urban Stormwater: Harvesting and reuse (PDF) (Report). Sydney, Australia: New South Wales Department of Environment and Conservation. 1 April 2006. ISBN 1-74137-875-3. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2020-07-16.
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  4. ^ Kinkade-Levario, Heather (2007). Design for Water : Rainwater Harvesting, Stormwater Catchment, and Alternate Water Reuse. Gabriola Island, B.C.: New Society Publishers. p. 27. ISBN 978-0-86571-580-6.
  5. ^ Bagel, Ravi; Stepan, Lea; Hill, Joseph K.W. (2017). Water, knowledge and the environment in Asia : epistemologies, practices and locales. London. ISBN 9781315543161.cite book: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
  6. ^ "The History of Rainwater Harvesting: From Roman Aqueducts to Modern Gutters". 2025-05-09. Retrieved 2025-05-09.
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  8. ^ it:Architettura eoliana
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  11. ^ Morales Rojas, Eli; Díaz Ortiz, Edwin Adolfo; Medina Tafur, Cesar Augusto; García, Ligia; Oliva, Manuel; Rojas Briceño, Nilton B. (2021). "A Rainwater Harvesting and Treatment System for Domestic Use and Human Consumption in Native Communities in Amazonas (NW Peru): Technical and Economic Validation". Scientifica. 2021 (1): 4136379. doi:10.1155/2021/4136379. ISSN 2090-908X. PMC 8548140. PMID 34712503.
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  30. ^ Staddon, Chad; Rogers, Josh; Warriner, Calum; Ward, Sarah; Powell, Wayne (17 November 2018). "Why doesn't every family practice rainwater harvesting? Factors that affect the decision to adopt rainwater harvesting as a household water security strategy in central Uganda". Water International. 43 (8): 1114–1135. Bibcode:2018WatIn..43.1114S. doi:10.1080/02508060.2018.1535417. S2CID 158857347.
  31. ^ Furumai, Hiroaki (2008). Recent application of rainwater storage and harvesting in Japan.
  32. ^ Lunduka, Rodney (2011). "ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF RAINWATER HARVESTING AND SMALL-SCALE WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT". ResearchGate. Retrieved 2020-11-25.
  33. ^ Ibrahim, Gaylan Rasul Faqe; Rasul, Azad; Ali Hamid, Arieann; Ali, Zana Fattah; Dewana, Amanj Ahmad (April 2019). "Suitable Site Selection for Rainwater Harvesting and Storage Case Study Using Dohuk Governorate". Water. 11 (4): 864. Bibcode:2019Water..11..864I. doi:10.3390/w11040864. Text was copied from this source, which is available under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License Archived 2017-10-16 at the Wayback Machine.
  34. ^ Lange, J.; Husary, S.; Gunkel, A.; Bastian, D.; Grodek, T. (2012-03-06). "Potentials and limits of urban rainwater harvesting in the Middle East". Hydrology and Earth System Sciences. 16 (3): 715–724. Bibcode:2012HESS...16..715L. doi:10.5194/hess-16-715-2012. ISSN 1607-7938. Archived from the original on 2022-07-10. Retrieved 2020-11-28.
  35. ^ Chen, Xuefei (27 August 2007). "Rainwater harvesting benefits farmers in Gansu". People's Daily Online. Archived from the original on 20 October 2012. Retrieved 10 July 2018.
  36. ^ Hatch, Jacob. "The Many Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting". Hydration Anywhere. Archived from the original on 13 December 2016. Retrieved 3 August 2018.
  37. ^ Pearce, Fred; Mackenzie, Debora (3 April 1999). "It's raining pesticides". New Scientist. No. 2180. Archived from the original on 10 July 2018. Retrieved 10 July 2018.
  38. ^ "Low cost drinking water technology – rainwater harvesting with solar purification. Current Science, Vol. 118, No.6, 25 March 2020" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 19 January 2022. Retrieved 27 March 2020.
  39. ^ Collecting and Using Rainwater at Home. Canadian Housing and Mortgage Corporation. 2013.
  40. ^ Duke, Katie (2014). "Ownership of Rainwater and the Legality of Rainwater Harvesting in British Columbia". Appeal. Retrieved 2016-03-29.
  41. ^ a b "CANARM.org - Canadian Association for Rainwater Management". www.canarm.org. Retrieved 2016-03-22.
  42. ^ "Homepage - Water, Septic Tanks and Rainwater Harvesting Systems Canada - Clean-Flo Rainwater Management". Water, Septic Tanks and Rainwater Harvesting Systems Canada - Clean-Flo Rainwater Management. Retrieved 2016-03-22.
  43. ^ Kumar, M. Dinesh; Ghosh, Shantanu; Patel, Ankit; Singh, Om Prakash; Ravindranath, R.; Kumar, M. Dinesh; Ghosh, Shantanu; Patel, Ankit; Singh, Om Prakash; Ravindranath, R. (2006). Kumar, M. Dinesh; Ghosh, Shantanu; Patel, Ankit; Singh, Om Prakash; Ravindranath, R. (eds.). "Rainwater harvesting in India: some critical issues for basin planning and research". Land Use and Water Resources Research. doi:10.22004/ag.econ.47964.
  44. ^ Button, Cat (4 May 2017). "Domesticating water supplies through rainwater harvesting in Mumbai". Gender & Development. 25 (2): 269–282. doi:10.1080/13552074.2017.1339949. ISSN 1355-2074. S2CID 80471348.
  45. ^ "India Rainwater Harvesting Market, By Type (Rain Barrel System, Dry System, Wet System, Green Roof System), By Harvesting Method (Above Ground Ground Surface and Storage Tank, Under Ground), By Application (Residential, Commercial, Industrial and Agricultural), By Region, By Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2018–2028". TechSci Research.
  46. ^ Johari, Aarefa (17 July 2019). "Mumbai could save water through its mandatory rainwater harvesting rule – but no one seems to care". Scroll.in. Retrieved 12 May 2023.
  47. ^ "Harvesting rainwater for domestic uses: an information guide" (PDF). Environment Agency. October 2010. Retrieved 2021-01-23.
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  60. ^ "Lanka Rain Water Harvesting Forum (LRWHF)". Archived from the original on 2015-02-03. Retrieved 2011-12-09.
  61. ^ Archidiacono, Stefano; and Zwarteveen, Margreet (2024-09-01). "Engineering as Tinkering Care: A Rainwater Harvesting Infrastructure in Cochabamba, Bolivia". Engineering Studies. 16 (3): 206–225. doi:10.1080/19378629.2024.2304176. ISSN 1937-8629. cite journal: |first2= missing |last2= (help); |first3= missing |last3= (help); |first4= missing |last4= (help); |first5= missing |last5= (help)CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
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[edit]
 
Wikiversity has learning resources about Rainwater harvesting

 

Lead guttering: slate and pitched valley gutter flow into parapet gutter, with downpipe and overflow
Eaves gutter and downpipe
Decorative lead hopper head dated 1662, Durham Castle

 

A rain gutter, eavestrough, eaves-shoot or surface water collection channel is a component of a water discharge system for a building.[1] It is necessary to prevent water dripping or flowing off roofs in an uncontrolled manner for several reasons: to prevent it damaging the walls, drenching persons standing below or entering the building, and to direct the water to a suitable disposal site where it will not damage the foundations of the building. In the case of a flat roof, removal of water is essential to prevent water ingress and to prevent a build-up of excessive weight.

Water from a pitched roof flows down into a valley gutter, a parapet gutter or an eaves gutter. An eaves gutter is also known as an eavestrough (especially in Canada), spouting in New Zealand, rhone or rone (Scotland),[2][3][4][5][6] eaves-shoot (Ireland) eaves channel, dripster, guttering, rainspouting or simply as a gutter.[7] The word gutter derives from Latin gutta (noun), meaning "a droplet".[8]

Guttering in its earliest form consisted of lined wooden or stone troughs. Lead was a popular liner and is still used in pitched valley gutters. Many materials have been used to make guttering: cast iron, asbestos cement, UPVC (PVCu), cast and extruded aluminium, galvanized steel, wood, copper, zinc, and bamboo.

Description

[edit]

Gutters prevent water ingress into the fabric of the building by channelling the rainwater away from the exterior of the walls and their foundations. [9] Water running down the walls causes dampness in the affected rooms and provides a favourable environment for growth of mould, and wet rot in timber.[citation needed]

A rain gutter may be a:

  • Roof integral trough along the lower edge of the roof slope which is fashioned from the roof covering and flashing materials.
  • Discrete trough of metal, or other material that is suspended beyond the roof edge and below the projected slope of the roof.
  • Wall integral structure beneath the roof edge, traditionally constructed of masonry, fashioned as the crowning element of a wall.[10]

A roof must be designed with a suitable fall to allow the rainwater to discharge. The water drains into a gutter that is fed into a downpipe. A flat roof should have a watertight surface with a minimum finished fall of 1 in 80. They can drain internally or to an eaves gutter, which has a minimum 1 in 360 fall towards the downpipe. [11] The pitch of a pitched roof is determined by the construction material of the covering. For slate this will be at 25%, for machine made tiles it will be 35%. Water falls towards a parapet gutter, a valley gutter or an eaves gutter. [12] When two pitched roofs meet at an angle, they also form a pitched valley gutter: the join is sealed with valley flashing. Parapet gutters and valley gutters discharge into internal rainwater pipes or directly into external down pipes at the end of the run. [12]

  • A parapet gutter at the base of a sloping roof and a parapet wall, outflowing to a downpipe
    A parapet gutter at the base of a sloping roof and a parapet wall, outflowing to a downpipe
  • A simpler parapet gutter.
    A simpler parapet gutter.
  • A valley gutter between two parallel roof surfaces.
    A valley gutter between two parallel roof surfaces.

The capacity of the gutter is a significant design consideration. The area of the roof is calculated (metres) and this is multiplied by rainfall (litres/sec/metres²) which is assumed to be 0.0208. This gives a required discharge outfall capacity. (litres/sec) .[13] Rainfall intensity, the amount of water likely to generated in a two-minute rainstorm is more important than average rainfall, the British Standards Institute[14] notes that an indicative storm in Essex, (annual rainfall 500 mm per annum) delivers 0.022 L/s/m²- while one in Cumbria (annual rainfall 1800 mm per annum) delivers 0.014 L/s/m².[15]

Eaves gutters can be made from a variety of materials such as cast iron, lead, zinc, galvanised steel, painted steel, copper, painted aluminium, PVC (and other plastics) and occasionally from concrete, stone, and wood.[16]

  a: Rainwater gutter
  b: Endcap
  c: Hopper
  d: 112° bend
  f: Downpipe
  g: Manifold

Water collected by a rain gutter is fed, usually via a downpipe (also called a leader or conductor),[17] from the roof edge to the base of the building where it is either discharged or collected.[18] The down pipe can terminate in a shoe and discharge directly onto the surface, but using modern construction techniques would be connected through an inspection chamber to a drain that led to a surface water drain or soakaway. Alternatively it would connect via a storm drain (u-bend) with 50 mm water seal to a combined drain.[19] Water from rain gutters may be harvested in a rain barrel or a cistern.[20]

Rain gutters can be equipped with gutter screens, micro mesh screens, louvers or solid hoods to allow water from the roof to flow through, while reducing passage of roof debris into the gutter.[21]

Clogged gutters can also cause water ingress into the building as the water backs up. Clogged gutters can also lead to stagnant water build up which in some climates allows mosquitoes to breed.[22]

History

[edit]

The Romans brought rainwater systems to Britain. The technology was subsequently lost, but was re-introduced by the Normans. The White Tower, at the Tower of London had external gutters. In March 1240 the Keeper of the Works at the Tower of London was ordered by King Henry "to have the Great Tower whitened both inside and out". This was according to the fashion at the time. Later that year the king wrote to the Keeper, commanding that the White Tower's lead guttering should be extended with the effect that "the wall of the tower ... newly whitened, may be in no danger of perishing or falling outwards through the trickling of the rain".[23]

In Saxon times, the thanes erected buildings with large overhanging roofs to throw the water clear of the walls in the same way that occurs in thatched cottages. The cathedral builder used lead parapet gutters, with elaborate gargoyles for the same purpose. With the dissolution of the monasteries- those buildings were recycled and there was plenty of lead that could be used for secular building. The yeoman would use wooden gutters or lead lined wooden gutters.

Cross section of a Paxton gutter with glazing bar

When The Crystal Palace was designed in 1851 by Joseph Paxton with its innovative ridge-and-furrow roof, the rafters that spanned the space between the roof girders of the glass roof also served as the gutters. The wooden Paxton gutters had a deep semi-circular channel to remove the rainwater and grooves at the side to handle the condensation. They were under trussed with an iron plate and had preformed notches for the glazing bars: they drained into a wooden box gutter that drained into and through structural cast iron columns.[24]

The Industrial Revolution introduced new methods of casting-iron and the railways brought a method of distributing the heavy cast-iron items to building sites. The relocation into the cities created a demand for housing that needed to be compact. Dryer houses controlled asthma, bronchitis, emphysema as well as pneumonia. In 1849 Joseph Bazalgette proposed a sewerage system for London, that prevented run-off being channelled into the Thames. By the 1870s all houses were constructed with cast iron gutters and down pipes. The Victorian gutter was an ogee, 115 mm in width, that was fitted directly to the fascia boards eliminating the need for brackets. Square and half-round profiles were also available. For a brief period after the first world war, asbestos-cement guttering became popular due to it being maintenance free: the disadvantages however ensured this was a short period: it was more bulky and fractured on impact. [25]

Types

[edit]

Cast iron

[edit]

Cast iron gutters were introduced in the late 18th century as an alternative to lead. Cast iron enabled eaves gutters to be mass-produced: they were rigid and non-porous while lead could only be used as a liner within timber gutters. Installation was a single process and didn't require heat.[26] They could be attached directly to the fascia board. Cast iron gutters are still specified for restoration work in conservation areas, but are usually replaced with cast aluminium made to the same profile. Extruded aluminium gutters can be made to a variety of profiles from a roll of aluminium sheet on site in lengths of up to 30 m. They feature internal brackets at 400 mm spacing.[27]

UPVC

[edit]

In UK domestic architecture, guttering is often made from UPVC sections. The first PVC pipes were introduced in the 1930s for use in sanitary drainage systems. Polyethylene was developed in 1933. The first pressurised plastic drinking water pipes were installed in the Netherlands in the 1950s. During the 1960s rain water pipes, guttering and down pipes using plastic materials were introduced followed by PVC soil systems which became viable with the introduction of ring seals. A British Standard was launched for soil systems, local authorities started to specify PVC systems. By 1970 plastic rainwater systems accounted for over 60% of new installations.[citation needed] A European Standard EN607 has existed since 2004.[citation needed]

  • A collector with 112 mm gutter, draining into 68 mm downpipe
    A collector with 112 mm gutter, draining into 68 mm downpipe
  • Available gutter fittings
    Available gutter fittings
  • Available pipe and gutter fittings
    Available pipe and gutter fittings
  • Fitting a gutter to a 45° connector
    Fitting a gutter to a 45° connector

It is easy to install, economical, lightweight requires minimum maintenance and has a life expectancy of 50 years. The material has a disadvantageous coefficient of thermal expansion 0.06 mm/m°C, so design allowances have to be made. A 4-metre gutter, enduring a −5 °C to 25 °C temperature range will need space to expand, 30 × 4 × 0.06 = 7.2 mm within its end stops.[28] As a rule of thumb a 4-inch (100 mm) gutter with a single 68-millimetre (2.7 in) downpipe will drain a 600-square-foot (56 m2) roof.[29]

Stainless steel

[edit]

High quality stainless steel guttering systems are available for homes and commercial projects. The advantages of stainless steel are durability, corrosion-resistance, ease of cleaning, and superior aesthetics. Compared with concrete or wood, a stainless steel gutter will undergo non-negligible cycles of thermal expansion and contraction as the temperature changes; if allowance for this movement is not made during installation, there will be a potential for deformation of the gutter, which may lead to improper drainage of the gutter system.

Seamless gutters

[edit]

Seamless gutters have the advantage of being produced on site with a portable roll forming machine to match the specifications of the structure and are generally installed by experienced tradesman. Seamless gutter is .027" thick and if properly installed will last 30+ years.[citation needed]

Zinc

[edit]

In commercial and domestic architecture, guttering is often made from zinc coated mild steel for corrosion resistance. Metal gutters with bead stiffened fronts is governed in the UK by BS EN612:2005.

Copper

[edit]

Copper guttering boasts water cleaning abilities that stem from the antimicrobial properties of copper. It also develops patina that is commonly associated with the copper material, where the gutter system's colour darkens within the first few years and then transitions to a dark green at seven years. Copper gutters reach their full patina state at twenty years, however a verdigris solution can be used on the system to speed this process up drastically.[30]

Aluminium

[edit]

Aluminium gutters offer good corrosion resistance, are lightweight, and are easy to install. Additionally, aluminium gutters come in a variety of finishes and styles.[31]

  • Aluminium gutters in Moscow
    Aluminium gutters in Moscow

Finlock gutters

[edit]

Finlock gutters, a proprietary name[32] for concrete gutters, can be employed on a large range of buildings. There were used on domestic properties in the 1950s and 1960s, as a replacement for cast iron gutters when there was a shortage of steel and surplus of concrete. [citation needed] They were discredited after differential movement was found to open joints and allow damp to penetrate, but can be fitted with an aluminium and bitumastic liner.[33] Finlock concrete gutter units are made up of two troughs – one is the visible gutter and the other sits across the cavity wall. The blocks which can range from 8 to 12 inches (200 to 300 mm) can be joined using reinforcing rods and concrete, to form lintels for doors and windows.[33]

Vernacular buildings

[edit]

Guttering can be made from any locally available material such as stone or wood. Porous materials may be lined with pitch or bitumen.

  • Wooden gutter at an open air museum
    Wooden gutter at an open air museum
  • Wood used on a stone building
    Wood used on a stone building
  • Stone gutter in Burgundy
    Stone gutter in Burgundy
  • Stone gutters in Slovenia
    Stone gutters in Slovenia

Shapes

[edit]

Today in Western construction we use mainly three types of gutter - K-Style, round, and square. In days past there were 12 gutter shapes/styles. K-Style gets its name from its letter designation being the eleventh out of the twelve.

Gutter guards

[edit]
Gutter guards

Gutter guards (also called gutter covers, gutter protection or leaf guards) are primarily aimed at preventing damage caused from clogged gutters and reducing the need for regular gutter cleaning. They are a common add-on or included as an option for custom-built homes.

Types of gutter guards

[edit]

Brush gutter guards resemble pipe cleaners and are easy to install. They prevent large debris from clogging gutters, but are less effective at reducing smaller debris.

Foam gutter guards are also easy to install. They fit into gutters, so they prevent large objects from obstructing waterflow, but they do not prevent algae and plant growth. A negative feature of foam type filters is that the pores quickly get clogged and thus need replacement due to not allowing water to pass through.

Reverse curve or surface tension guards reduce clogged gutters by narrowing the opening of the gutters. Many find them to be unattractive and difficult to maintain.

Screen gutter guards are among the most common and most effective. They can be snapped on or mounted, made of metal or plastic. Micromesh gutter guards provide the most protection from small and large debris.[34]

PVC type gutter guards are a less costly option, however, they tend to quickly become brittle due to sun exposure.

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Chudley 1988, p. 476.
  2. ^ "Chambers – Search Chambers".
  3. ^ "RONE definition and meaning | Collins English Dictionary".
  4. ^ "Dictionary.com | Meanings & Definitions of English Words". Dictionary.com.
  5. ^ "Definition of RONE". www.merriam-webster.com.
  6. ^ Collins English Dictionary. 1979.
  7. ^ Sturgis, Russell (1901). A Dictionary of Architecture and Building: Biographical, Historical, and Descriptive. The Macmillan Company.
  8. ^ Simpson (1963). New Compact Latin dictionary. Cassell.
  9. ^ Maskrey 2012, p. 461.
  10. ^ Sturgis' Illustrated Dictionary of Architecture and Building: An Unabridged Reprint of the 1901-2 Edition, Vol. II: F-N, p.340, ISBN 0-486-26026-7
  11. ^ Chudley 1988, p. 479.
  12. ^ a b Chudley 1988, pp. 476–7.
  13. ^ Maskrey 2012, p. 465.
  14. ^ BS EN 2056-3:2000
  15. ^ Maskrey 2012, p. 462.
  16. ^ Hardy, Benjamin (9 July 2013). "Gutters 101". Bob Vila. Retrieved 21 August 2014.
  17. ^ "Architectural Graphic Standards," First Edition, 1932, ISBN 0-471-51940-5, p. 77, 'Parts of a gutter' illustration
  18. ^ Ching, Francis D. K. (1995). A Visual Dictionary of Architecture. Van Nostrand Reinhold Company. p. 209. ISBN 0-442-02462-2.
  19. ^ Chudley 1988, p. 480.
  20. ^ "Rainwater Harvesting". Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. Texas A&M. Retrieved 29 June 2016.
  21. ^ Zhu, Qiang (2015). Rainwater Harvesting for Agriculture and Water Supply. Springer. p. 264. ISBN 978-9812879646.
  22. ^ "Mosquitoes and West Nile Virus in Delaware", dema.delaware.gov
  23. ^ Impey & Parnell 2000, pp. 25–27
  24. ^ Berlyn, Peter; Fowler, Charles (1851). The Crystal palace, its architectural history and constructive marvels. London, J. Gilbert. pp. 40–50. Retrieved 27 December 2016.
  25. ^ Hall 1982, p. 422.
  26. ^ Trace, Paul. "A Cast Iron Solution". www.buildingconservation.com. Retrieved 27 December 2016.
  27. ^ Maskrey 2012, p. 427.
  28. ^ Maskrey 2012, p. 467.
  29. ^ Hall 1982, p. 423.
  30. ^ "How Does A Copper Guttering System Age? | Why Copper Turns Green". www.guttersupplies.co.uk. Retrieved 2 April 2025.
  31. ^ Ernestopro.com. "How to choose the best aluminum gutters".
  32. ^ Glover, Peter (2009). Building surveys (7th ed.). Amsterdam: Elsevier/Butterworth-Heinemann. p. 323. ISBN 978-1856176064.
  33. ^ a b Santo, Philip (2016). Inspections and Reports on Dwellings: Inspecting (Revised ed.). Taylor & Francis. p. 144. ISBN 978-1136021305.
  34. ^ Clark, Amara. "Gutter Screens – Fact or Fiction?". NED Stevens. Retrieved 10 January 2018.
Bibliography
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