Eavestrough vs. Gutter: Is There Actually a Difference?

If you have ever called a contractor about your “gutters” and heard them talk about your “eavestroughs,” you might have wondered whether you are talking about two different things.

You are not. But there is a little more to the story than that, and it helps to know the terms when you are planning repairs or a replacement.

The Short Answer

An eavestrough and a gutter are the same thing.

Both terms describe the channel that runs along the edge of your roof, collects rainwater and melting snow, and carries it to the downspouts so it can be directed away from your home.

The difference is mostly where you live.

Why Canadians Say Eavestrough

“Eavestrough” is the common term in Canada, especially in Ontario. “Gutter” is more common in the United States.

The word itself describes exactly what the system does:

• Eaves are the lower edges of the roof that overhang the walls of the house
• Trough is a long, narrow channel that holds or carries water

Put them together and you get a trough that sits under the eaves.

You will also hear people say “eaves,” “eaves troughs” or “eavestroughing.” All of these refer to the same system.

And no, it is not “eavesdrops.” That one comes up more often than you might think.

What Eavestroughing Usually Includes

When contractors talk about eavestroughing, they usually mean the whole drainage system, not just the channel itself. That typically includes:

• The eavestrough that runs along the roof edge
• Downspouts that carry water down the side of the house
• Elbows and outlets that connect the trough to the downspouts
• Hangers that hold the eavestrough securely to the fascia
• End caps and corners that seal the ends and turns
• Extensions or splash pads that move water away from the foundation

Each part has to work properly for the system to do its job.

How Eavestroughs Work With Soffit and Fascia

Eavestroughs are mounted to the fascia, the board that runs along the edge of the roofline. Underneath the overhang is the soffit, which covers the underside of the eaves and often provides ventilation for the attic.

These three parts work together. If the eavestrough overflows or leaks, water can soak the fascia and soffit and lead to rot, staining and damage. If the fascia is weak, the eavestrough can sag or pull away.

That is why eavestrough, soffit and fascia are often inspected and replaced together.

Common Eavestrough Styles in Ontario

Most homes in Simcoe County use one of these:

K style eavestrough

This is the most common style on Ontario homes. It has a flat back and a decorative front profile that resembles crown moulding.

Half round eavestrough

A rounded profile often used on older or heritage style homes.

Seamless eavestrough

Seamless eavestrough is formed on site to fit the exact length of each roof section. With fewer joints, there are fewer places for leaks to start.

Eavestrough Sizes

Residential eavestroughs are most commonly 5 inch or 6 inch. Larger roofs, steeper pitches or areas that collect water from more than one roof section may need the higher capacity of a 6 inch system.

Choosing the right size is one of the best ways to prevent overflow during heavy rain.

Why the Name Matters Less Than the Function

Whether you call it an eavestrough or a gutter, its job is the same: keeping water off your siding, away from your foundation and out of your basement.

Signs your system is not doing that job include:

• Water spilling over the edges during rain
• Sagging sections
• Leaking seams or corners
• Water pooling near the foundation
• Staining on siding or fascia
• Eavestroughs pulling away from the house

Eavestrough Installation in Barrie and Simcoe County

Reynolds Brothers Exteriors installs, repairs and replaces eavestrough systems for homes throughout Barrie, Orillia, Innisfil, Springwater, Collingwood, Wasaga Beach and surrounding communities.

Whatever you call them, we can help make sure yours are moving water away from your home the way they should.

Contact Reynolds Brothers Exteriors today to request a quote for your eavestroughs.