Concealed gutters, often called hidden or integral gutters, function by collecting rainwater inside the structure of your roof's overhang rather than being visibly attached to the fascia board like traditional gutters.
Understanding the Concealed Gutter System
Unlike standard gutters that are exposed on the exterior of the roofline, concealed gutters are built into the overhang during construction or renovation. This gives them a streamlined, clean look, as they are not visible from the ground.
Based on the provided reference:
- Location: The gutter system itself resides inside (hidden) the overhang of the roof. This integration into the roof structure is key to their concealed nature.
- Drainage: A drain is incorporated into this gutter. This drain acts as the collection point for water.
- Water Pathway: The leader (or downspout) is attached to the drain, runs through the overhang, and directly down the exterior wall of the house. This means the initial part of the leader is also hidden within the overhang, only becoming visible where it exits the underside of the overhang and runs down the wall.
Essentially, rainwater flows off the roof edge into the hidden gutter trough. From there, it is directed towards a specific drain point within the trough. Attached to this drain is a leader pipe that carries the water away, often running down through the internal structure of the overhang and then along the exterior wall to disperse water safely away from the foundation.
Key Components and Flow
Here's a simple breakdown of the system components and how water moves through it:
- Gutter Trough: Built into the roof overhang, hidden from view.
- Drain: Located within the trough, connecting to the leader.
- Leader (Downspout): Pipe attached to the drain, carrying water away.
Think of it as an internal channel designed to guide water discreetly off the roof.
| Component | Function | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Gutter System | Collects rainwater flowing off the roof. | Inside roof overhang |
| Drain | Point where water enters the leader. | Inside gutter trough |
| Leader | Carries water from drain away from the house. | Through overhang & down exterior wall |
Benefits of Concealed Gutters
- Aesthetics: Their primary appeal is the clean, uncluttered look they provide to the roofline and home exterior.
- Protection: When properly installed, they effectively manage water flow, preventing damage to siding, foundations, and landscaping.
While they offer a sleek appearance, their hidden nature can sometimes make maintenance or repairs more complex compared to easily accessible external gutters.
In summary, concealed gutters work by integrating the water collection system into the roof's overhang structure, using hidden troughs and internal leaders to channel rainwater away discreetly.
