Downspouts aren't one-size-fits-all
When upgrading gutters, most homeowners focus on the gutter itself and accept whatever downspout 'comes with it.' That's a mistake — downspout choice significantly affects how well your system handles Reno's monsoon bursts.
Rectangular downspouts (standard)
The most common type. Rectangular aluminum in 2×3 or 3×4 dimensions.
Pros: Cheapest, widely available, fits any gutter system.
Cons: Prone to denting in high-traffic areas, not the cleanest look aesthetically.
Best for: Standard suburban homes in most Reno neighborhoods where appearance isn't a primary concern.
Round (smooth) downspouts
Cylindrical downspouts in 3" or 4" diameter, usually aluminum or copper.
Pros: Cleaner aesthetic, better water flow (no internal corners for debris to catch), more resistant to denting.
Cons: Higher cost, fewer fitting options.
Best for: High-end custom homes where appearance matters — Galena, Montrêux, St. James's Village.
Corrugated downspouts
Rectangular or round with corrugated (ribbed) surface.
Pros: Slight structural stiffness advantage, traditional appearance on older homes.
Cons: Debris can catch in the corrugations, slightly higher flow resistance.
Best for: Historic homes in Old Southwest Reno or architectural matching projects.
Rain chains
Decorative chains that replace downspouts on visible architectural accents.
Pros: Beautiful feature, especially in copper. Creates a water-feature effect in monsoon storms.
Cons: Lower volume capacity than closed downspouts. Splash effects require landscape planning.
Best for: Architectural focal points — main entry gables, covered patios, formal garden areas.
Internal/concealed downspouts
Downspouts that run inside walls or architectural columns, hidden from view.
Pros: Invisible from outside, integrates with modern architecture.
Cons: Much more expensive due to waterproofing and access complexity. Maintenance is harder.
Best for: Contemporary custom homes like Rancharrah where visible downspouts clash with the architecture.
Sizing your downspouts correctly
For Reno monsoon conditions:
Standard homes: 2×3 is OK for small roof areas (<600 sq ft per downspout), 3×4 preferred for most installations.
Larger homes: 3×4 minimum; consider 4×5 on very large roof planes.
Commercial: 4×5 minimum; often 6×6 or larger for warehouses.
When in doubt, size up. Downspouts that handle 30% more water than the minimum perform better during the one-in-ten-year monsoon event that matters most.
Discuss your downspouts
Call Gutter Brothers at (775) 502-1844 to discuss downspout options for your specific home. Free on-site consultation.