Many homeowners ask whether they should stick with standard 5 inch eavestroughs or upgrade to 6 inch. Both sizes are widely used here in Ontario, but the right choice depends on your roof size, fascia width, and how much water your roof collects during heavy rainfall.
If you’d like to read a more personal take on how 6 inch eavestroughs became part of our work, check out our blog: Do I Need 6″ Eavestroughs?
This guide focuses on the technical side, explaining the differences so you can make an informed decision for your home.
How Eavestrough Sizing Works in Ontario
Roof area, pitch, and rainfall matter most
The size of your roof and the slope of its design determine how quickly water flows into your eavestroughs. In Southern Ontario, sudden downpours are common, so your system needs to keep up with the volume. A smaller roof with a gentle pitch will often be fine with 5 inch eavestroughs, while steep or complex rooflines may benefit from more capacity.
Standard sizes in Ontario: 5″ vs 6″
Most residential homes in Ontario use 5 inch eavestroughs. They handle the majority of roof sizes without trouble. However, 6 inch eavestroughs are about 33% larger in capacity. That extra depth and width make a big difference when water is concentrated in one section of your roof. It also means they’re a more expensive (approximately 35% more).
When 6″ Eavestroughs Are a Smart Upgrade
Steep roofs, long runs, and inside corners
If your roof has steep slopes, long stretches without breaks, or valleys where multiple sections drain into one spot, a 6 inch eavestrough is usually the smarter choice. It provides the extra space needed to carry water away without spilling over the sides.
Pairing with larger downspouts for performance
With 6 inch eavestroughs, downspout sizing is just as important. Always pair them with 3×4 downspouts. Installing a smaller 3×3 downspout on a 6 inch eavestrough restricts the flow, much like crimping a garden hose. The larger downspout ensures the system can handle the higher volume of water.
Benefits of Aluminum Eavestroughs (Our Standard)
Why we only install aluminum
We install aluminum eavestroughs exclusively because they are durable, rust-resistant, and backed by a 25-year manufacturer warranty. Unlike plastic or steel, aluminum strikes the right balance of strength and weight, making it ideal for Ontario’s climate.
Canadian-sourced suppliers you can trust
We use Canadian-sourced aluminum from Gentek, Kaycan, and Royal Building Solutions. These suppliers offer consistent quality, an amazing warranty, and a wide range of colours to match your home’s exterior.
Eavestrough Protection That Improves Flow
Why gutter guards make a difference
Even the best eavestroughs won’t perform well if they’re clogged. Leaves, pine needles, and ice buildup restrict flow and increase the chance of overflow. Adding a protection system keeps water moving smoothly and reduces the risk of foundation or fascia damage.
Alu-Rex gutter protection systems
We recommend Alu-Rex gutter protection, which includes T-Rex® Continuous Hanger™ and DoublePro® Microfiltration systems. These products keep debris out, support the eavestrough along its entire length, and are designed to handle snow and ice during Canadian winters. We’re a proud Elite installer of Alu-Rex systems, so you know you’re well taken care of with us.
Cost Factors for Eavestrough Installation in Ontario
What affects the price
The cost of eavestrough installation varies depending on:
- Total linear footage of eavestroughs needed
- Number of corners or mitres
- Number of stories on your home
- Fascia and soffit condition
- Whether you add gutter guards for protection
Because 6 inch eavestroughs require more material and different equipment, they typically cost more than 5 inch systems. While the upfront investment is higher, they may prevent costly water damage, making them a wise choice for the right roof.
Book Your Eavestrough Installation
Choosing between 5 and 6 inch eavestroughs comes down to your home’s roof design, rainfall patterns, and peace of mind. The Eavestrough Company installs high-quality aluminum eavestroughs, fascia, soffit, and siding throughout Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, Brantford, Cambridge, and St. Catharines.
All our installations are backed by a 25-year manufacturer warranty on aluminum, and we offer trusted Alu-Rex protection options.
Book your free estimate today and find the right fit for your home.
FAQ
What size eavestrough do I need in Ontario?
Most homes use 5 inch eavestroughs, but larger roofs, steep slopes, or concentrated water flow areas may need 6 inch.
Are 6 inch eavestroughs better?
Not always. They are better for handling higher water volume, but many homes perform perfectly well with 5 inch systems (especially if your fascia is smaller – 6 inch gutters can look too big in this case).
What downspout size should I use with 6 inch eavestroughs?
Always use 3×4 downspouts with 6 inch eavestroughs for proper flow.
Does 5 inch vs 6 inch make a big cost difference?
Yes. Expect 6 inch eavestroughs to cost more (approximately 35% more) due to materials and installation equipment, though the long-term protection can offset the higher price.
