Eavestroughs & Downspouts
About Eavestroughs & Downspouts
Water management starts at the roofline. A correctly specified eavestrough system channels spring runoff, summer downpours, and snowmelt away from your foundation, siding, and landscaping - preventing the water damage that costs Canadian homeowners tens of thousands of dollars to remediate. Pro Materials supplies commercial-grade eavestrough systems from Kaycan and Mitten in aluminum, steel, and vinyl: 5" and 6" K-style, half-round profiles, matching downspouts, elbows, outlets, and gutter protection systems in a full range of colours and accessories. Everything from the eavestrough to the gutter protection system - sourced from a single supplier, matched for compatibility, and priced for trade volume. All products are engineered for Canadian climates: heavy snow loads, aggressive freeze-thaw cycles, and the wide temperature swings from Ontario winters to BC summers. We supply contractors, builders, and distributors across Ontario and Western Canada.
Eavestroughs & Downspouts Buying Guide
Key factors to evaluate when specifying eavestroughs & downspouts for your project.
How to Choose the Right Eavestrough System
Profile and size
are your first decisions. The most common residential profile is 5" K-style, which handles roofs up to about 5,000 sq ft of drainage area. For larger roofs, steep pitches, or high-rainfall zones, upgrade to 6" K-style or commercial-grade half-round. Half-round profiles pair well with heritage homes and wood siding; K-style suits most modern and colonial profiles.
Material matters
Aluminum is the dominant choice in Canada: lightweight, rust-proof, available in painted finishes, and cost-effective. Steel offers superior strength for heavy snow loads and is preferred on commercial and agricultural buildings. Vinyl is the lowest-cost option and completely rot-proof, but becomes brittle in extreme cold and is best suited to sheltered or southern applications.
Gauge and thickness
directly affect longevity. Standard residential aluminum runs at 0.027"–0.032" gauge; specify 0.032" minimum for exposed or high-volume installations. Heavy commercial jobs warrant 0.040" or steel.
Gutter guards and leaf protection
reduce maintenance dramatically in tree-heavy areas. Micro-mesh guards are the most effective and suit the cold climate because they prevent ice dam formation better than open-style screens. Consider the debris load of the specific site - pine needles require finer mesh than large maple leaves.
Colour matching
Eavestrough should complement your fascia colour or be a neutral tone (white, almond, clay) that disappears visually. We stock standard colours year-round and can source extended palettes from our Kaycan and Mitten lines.
Downspout sizing and placement
The general rule is one downspout per 20–30 linear feet of eavestrough, sized to match the gutter profile. Ensure downspouts discharge at least 6 feet from the foundation, or tie into a buried drain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an eavestrough and a gutter?
In Canada, the terms eavestrough and gutter are used interchangeably. Eavestrough is the traditional Canadian term for the channel that runs along the roof eave and collects rainwater. American literature typically uses gutter. At Pro Materials, we use eavestrough since that's the term most Canadian contractors and homeowners search for - but we carry the same products regardless of what you call them.
What eavestrough size do I need - 5" or 6"?
5" K-style handles most residential roofs up to roughly 5,000 sq ft of drainage area. If your roof is large, steep, or in a region with high annual rainfall, upgrade to 6". A 6" system moves about 40% more water volume than a 5" system. When in doubt, size up - the cost difference is small and performance margin is worthwhile.
How long do aluminum eavestroughs last?
A properly installed aluminum eavestrough system typically lasts 20–30 years in Canadian conditions. Longevity depends on gauge (thicker = longer life), joint quality (seamless preferred), and maintenance frequency. Keeping gutters clear of debris and checking sealant at end-caps and outlets every few years adds years to the system.
Do you supply eavestrough for commercial projects?
Yes. Pro Materials supplies contractors, builders, and distributors across Ontario and Western Canada. We stock commercial-gauge aluminum and steel eavestroughs, 6" profiles, box gutters, and heavy-duty downspout systems. Contact us for volume pricing on large projects.
What gutter guards work best in Canadian winters?
Micro-mesh guards are the best performers in Canadian climates because the fine mesh filters debris without creating a standing-water surface that freezes and blocks flow. Avoid foam inserts in cold climates - they absorb water and ice. Surface-tension (reverse-curve) guards work well in moderate climates but can struggle with heavy freeze-thaw cycles. We carry Kaycan's gutter protection line, which is engineered for Canadian conditions.
Can I order by the piece or do I need to buy in bundles?
Pro Materials supplies trade professionals on a quote basis. We can accommodate project-specific quantities - full bundles or per-piece as your job requires. Submit a quote request with your material list and we'll respond with pricing and availability.
What downspout size pairs with 5" and 6" eavestrough?
Standard 5" K-style eavestrough pairs with a 2"×3" rectangular downspout. For 6" K-style, use a 3"×4" rectangular downspout. Round downspouts (3" or 4" diameter) are common with half-round gutter profiles. Always match the outlet opening in the gutter bottom to your downspout size.