Which Type of Eavestrough Should You Install on a Metal Roof?

Are you unsure if you can have gutters on your metal roof?

As metal roofing continues to take over other traditional roofing materials, you may be considering having a metal roof installed on your own home. However, you may be unsure if you can have gutters for a metal roof.

That's why today, we've created this complete guide to help you get a better understanding of what to expect when you have a metal roof installed on your home. Keep reading to learn more!

Do You Need Gutters for a Metal Roof?

Absolutely. While metal roofs are durable and shed water efficiently, eavestroughs (gutters) play a crucial role in directing water away from your home's foundation, preventing erosion, basement flooding, and damage to landscaping. Properly installed eavestroughs are essential for protecting your property's structural integrity.

Why Do Some Metal Roofs Have Eavestrough While Others Don't?

Some metal roofs don’t have eavestroughs simply because the homeowner or builder assumed the fast-shedding nature of metal roofing means water won’t cause problems. In reality, this can lead to issues like:

• Soil erosion near the foundation
• Ice build-up around entryways
• Damaged walkways or landscaping
• Basement leaks and water pooling

Others do install eavestroughs—especially in places like Edmonton—because they understand how much water a metal roof can shed in a short time. Without gutters, all that water dumps straight to the ground, potentially causing long-term damage.

The difference often comes down to education, climate, and building codes. In areas like Alberta where we experience freeze/thaw cycles, eavestroughs are not just useful—they’re essential. And when paired with proper snow management and a heavy-duty system like 7” or 8” eavestroughs plus DoublePro protection, they’ll stand up to even the worst prairie winters.

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What Types of Gutters Should You Use With a Metal Roof?

When selecting eavestroughs for a metal roof, consider the following options:

1. Larger Gutters (7" and 8")

Metal roofs can shed water rapidly, especially during heavy rainfall. Installing larger 7" or 8" gutters can handle the increased water volume, reducing the risk of overflow and ensuring efficient drainage.​

2. DoublePro Gutter Systems

For enhanced protection, consider the DoublePro Microfiltration Continuous Hanger system. This dual-layer gutter protection system is designed to block fine debris, such as pine needles and leaves, while allowing water to drain freely. Its continuous hanger design strengthens the eavestrough, enabling it to withstand heavy snow and ice loads—common in Edmonton and surrounding areas.

Who Should Put Eavestrough on Their Metal Roof?

Short answer? Pretty much everyone with a metal roof in Alberta.

Here’s why:

• Homeowners in wet or snowy climates (like Edmonton and surrounding counties) absolutely need eavestroughs to control runoff and protect their foundation, walkways, and landscaping.
• Homes with walkways or decks below the eaves benefit from gutters to prevent dangerous ice buildup or waterfalls dumping on your doorstep.
• Anyone with a basement or crawlspace should install proper rainwater management to avoid long-term water damage and flooding risks.
• Rural and acreage homeowners especially need properly sized eavestroughs on metal roofs—those large surfaces shed water fast, and the risk of washouts or trenching along your home’s perimeter increases without proper drainage.

If you’ve got a metal roof and no gutters, you’re not just risking water damage—you’re also missing out on one of the most effective ways to protect your home year-round.

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Key Considerations for Eavestrough Installation on Metal Roofs

• Proper Installation: Ensure that eavestroughs are installed with appropriate slope and securely fastened to withstand heavy rain and snow loads. ​
• Regular Maintenance: Keep gutters clean and free of debris to prevent blockages and ensure efficient water flow.​
• Snow Guards: Consider installing snow guards on your metal roof to prevent snow and ice from sliding off in large sheets, which can damage eavestroughs and pose safety risks.​

Finding the Best Eavestrough for a Metal Roof

At Splashdown Eaves, we specialize in installing and maintaining eavestrough systems tailored to the unique needs of metal roofs. Our team is equipped to provide solutions that ensure durability and optimal performance, safeguarding your home against the elements.​

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us.