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 guard - sourced from a single supplier, matched for compatibility, and priced for trade volume. All products are tested for Canadian winters, built to handle heavy snow loads, aggressive freeze-thaw cycles, and the wide temperature swings Ontario contractors deal with. We supply contractors, builders, and distributors across Ontario and Western Canada.
Eavestroughs & Downspouts: At a Glance
7
Products
in this category
2
Brands
Mitten, Kaycan
Up to 6
Colour Options
per product line
Quote
Pricing
request for trade pricing
9 colour SKUs across 7 products
All colours available on a quote basis. Contact us for current stock and lead time.
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
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 reduce maintenance dramatically in tree-heavy areas. Micro-mesh guards are the most effective in cold climates 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 that disappears visually. We stock standard colours year-round and can source extended palettes from the 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 are used interchangeably. Eavestrough is the traditional Canadian term; American literature typically uses gutter. Same products, different words - we use eavestrough because that's what most Canadian contractors and homeowners search for.
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". When in doubt, size up - the cost difference is small and the 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 lasts longer), joint quality (seamless preferred), and how often you clear debris. Checking sealant at end-caps and outlets every few years adds years to the system.
Do you supply eavestrough for commercial projects?
Yes. We stock commercial-gauge aluminum and steel eavestroughs, 6" profiles, box gutters, and heavy-duty downspout systems. Request a quote with your material list and quantities.
What gutter guards work best in Canadian winters?
Micro-mesh guards are the best performers in cold climates - 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 turn into ice. Surface-tension guards work well in moderate climates but can struggle through heavy freeze-thaw conditions. We carry Kaycan's gutter protection line, which is proven in Canadian conditions.
Can I order by the piece or do I need to buy in bundles?
We supply trade professionals on a quote basis and can accommodate project-specific quantities. 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 pairs with a 2"x3" rectangular downspout. For 6" K-style, use a 3"x4" rectangular downspout. Round downspouts (3" or 4" diameter) are common with half-round profiles. Always match the outlet opening in the gutter bottom to your downspout size.