Should you get 5" or 6" gutters?

So you're looking for gutters, but the sizes seem a little confusing. 5 inch gutters? 6 inch gutters? Does an inch really make a big difference? Which one should you get, 5" or 6" gutters?
Don't worry, we're here to give you a definitive answer on which size gutters are right for your house: 5" or 6" gutters.
This 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.
If you live in a smaller home with a low-slope roof (one you could easily walk on without feeling like you might slide off), then 5" gutters will likely get the job done for you.
However, if your home has a steeper roof, you live in a rainy climate, or you just like gutters that look better and cover your fascia boards, then 6" gutters are the clear winner.
In fact, 6" gutters cost only about $1 more per linear foot for material than 5" gutters and include no additional labor charges (when you hire a reputable gutter installer). This means 6" gutters will only cost a few hundred dollars extra on most jobs.
So which one should you choose for your home, 5" or 6" gutters?
6" gutters all the way-they'll solve 99% of the problems you could have with your gutters without adding much cost. As long as they're within your budget, 6" gutters are the right choice 9 times out of 10.