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Gutters are installed to capture rainwater, normally off the roof of a building. They  should be installed with slope towards the downspout--slope should be 1/16 inch per lineal foot minimum

The side of the gutter closer to the building wall should be 1/2 inch higher than the side away from the building, This facilitates water draining away from the building. 

There is no rule of thumb for gutter sizing because of such variables as:

• Roof valleys.

• Steep slope of roof.

• Long roof distances from ridge to eave, 

Gutters should be made of inert materials. Many gutters are seamless aluminum installed by professionals. You can also use half-round PVC, vinyl,,and galvanized steel but  galvanized steel, copper, or aluminum are preferred gutter materials in DFW. Copper has a potential theft problem at this time.

Gutters with lead solder which is often found on older gutters, should be replaced The slight acidity of rainwater might dissolve the lead into your harvested water.

When installing gutters make certain that:
1. There is a continuous slope to the downspouts  
2. Nothing slows the flow of water and debris into the downspouts. 

Areas where the water can pool collect insects, organic materials and bacteria--dangerous in potable water and undesirable in irrigation water. 

Other problems with gutters are:

• Inadequate number of downspouts.

• Overrunning of water, particularly from roof valleys.

• Inadequate gutter maintenance.

In addition to the gutters, you will need: 

• Drop outlet. 

• Gutter hangers at 3 feet on center.

• Brackets. 

• Straps.

• At least two 45-degree elbows to fit downspout pipe closely to the building side. 

Back to Rainwater Harvesting Index. 

For further information about Renewable Water and Renewable Energy in this area of Texas contact

Terry Jensen
972 251-1532 or 817 545-0140
Email

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