Should You Get 5" or 6" Gutters? What are Pros and Cons?

Gutter sizing is a bit misleading. While the gutters are only an inch different in width, the volume of 5" and 6" gutters differs by nearly two thirds! That's because 5" gutters are made from gutter coil that's several inches narrower than 6" gutters. In fact, 6" gutters hold 2 gallons per linear foot while 5" gutters only hold 1.2 gallons per linear foot.

5-Inch vs 6-Inch Gutters: Which Is Better for Your Home?

If you're choosing between 5-inch and 6-inch gutters, understanding the difference can help you avoid costly water damage and improve your home’s performance.

What’s the Difference Between 5-Inch and 6-Inch Gutters?

A 5-inch gutter is typically about 5 inches wide and 3.5 inches tall.

A 6-inch gutter is 6 inches wide and about 5 inches tall.

That extra size makes a big difference in how much water each system can handle.

Water Capacity Matters

A 5-inch gutter holds about 1.2 gallons of water per foot.

A 6-inch gutter holds about 2 gallons per foot.

That’s a major increase in capacity, which helps prevent overflow during heavy rain.

Why This Matters for Your Roof

Roofs are designed to shed water quickly—not hold it.

If water can’t move off your roof fast enough, it can lead to:

Rotting fascia and soffits

Overflowing gutters

Water pooling around your foundation

The Problem with 5-Inch Gutters

Because of roof overhang, a 5-inch gutter often performs more like a 4-inch system.

On steep roofs or during heavy rain, water can easily overshoot the gutter and spill over the front.

When 5-Inch Gutters Might Work

A 5-inch gutter can work on:

Low-slope roofs

Smaller roof sections with less water flow

However, performance is limited compared to larger systems.

Why 6-Inch Gutters Perform Better

6-inch gutters provide more room for water to flow into the system.

They are especially important for:

Steep roofs

Metal roofs (which shed water faster)

Homes with heavy rainfall

They reduce overflow and improve overall drainage performance.

Cost Difference (Is It Worth It?)

Upgrading from 5-inch to 6-inch gutters typically costs about $1 more per linear foot.

On most projects, this is a small investment compared to the potential damage from poor drainage.

Aesthetic Benefits

6-inch gutters also look better on most homes.

They match standard fascia board sizes more proportionally and create a cleaner, more finished appearance.

Don’t Forget About Downspouts

Gutters are part of a full system.

Standard downspouts are 2x3 inches, but upgrading to 3x4 downspouts is recommended.

Larger downspouts move water faster and handle the increased volume from 6-inch gutters.

Final Thoughts

While 5-inch gutters can work in some situations, 6-inch gutters offer better performance, improved appearance, and long-term protection.

For most homes, upgrading to a 6-inch system is the smarter choice.

FAQ: 5-Inch vs 6-Inch Gutters

Are 6-inch gutters really better than 5-inch?

Yes. They handle more water, reduce overflow, and perform better in heavy rain conditions.

Can I use 5-inch gutters on my home?

Yes, but they are best suited for low-slope roofs or areas with less water runoff.

Do 6-inch gutters cost a lot more?

No. The upgrade is usually about $1 per linear foot, which is minimal compared to the benefits.

What size downspouts should I use?

3x4 downspouts are recommended because they move more water and improve system performance.

Do bigger gutters look better?

Yes. 6-inch gutters typically look more proportional and improve curb appeal on most homes.

If you are deciding on gutter size, it also helps to understand how much slope a gutter needs and how downspouts affect drainage. For a broader overview of system design and cost, visit home gutter systems explained.