A History of Rain Gutters

B.C. Era and the Roman Empire

Rain gutters were first recorded around 3,000 B.C. to 1,500 B.C. During that time, gutters were made from drains that were covered in bricks made of burnt clay. When the Roman Empire came into power in 27 B.C. to 14 A.D., the drainage system of roadways was revolutionized. They were built higher in the middle, enabling the rain to flow into “gutters.” Then, the Romans introduced this system to England around 47 A.D.

The Norman Empire

It was during the Norman Empire, which spread between the 10th and 13th centuries, that people saw the integration of gutter systems into architecture. Many homes, buildings and churches were rebuilt with stone roofing and parapets that gave way to gargoyles. If you ask your roofing contractor in St. Pete FL, these gargoyles were basically gutters since they expelled the excess water through their mouths.

1700’s

Cast iron became widely available in the 1700s, so manufacturers decided to make gutters out of this material. Later in the century, wood was made into V-shapes and fastened to wealthy homes and public buildings as gutter systems.

20th Century

The 20th century saw new technologies and materials that revolutionized gutters. In the early 1900s, with the introduction of rolling machines, builders were able to create half-round steel gutters that were placed on the edges of buildings. By the 1960s, seamless aluminum gutter machines were invented. Aluminum gained popularity over steel as it was strong, lightweight, and easy to manipulate.

Affordable Roofing Systems is a family-owned roofing company in St. Pete FL known for providing top-notch services. Our expertise covers roof installation, roof repair, gutter systems, and more.

Call us at 813-542-8462 or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate. We serve customers in Tampa and Clearwater, FL.