Black Crown Construction installs and repairs gutters and downspouts for homes across the Tulsa metro and Oklahoma City. Oklahoma storms can dump a lot of water in a few minutes, so gutters and downspouts need to be sized and spaced for that, then kept clear.
Sizing gutters for Oklahoma rain
NOAA's Atlas 14 rainfall estimates put a 10-year, 5-minute rain at about 8.47 inches per hour in downtown Tulsa and 8.57 inches per hour in downtown Oklahoma City. Oklahoma State University's gutter fact sheet notes that the Uniform Plumbing Code recommends a gutter system carry the runoff of the 100-year, 1-hour rain, and suggests sloping gutters about 1 inch per 16 feet with one downspout per 50 feet of gutter.
How many downspouts?
OSU's roof runoff fact sheet recommends no more than 1,000 square feet of roof per downspout. Long runs, steep roofs and valleys that concentrate water onto one section of gutter can all call for extra downspouts.
Does Oklahoma require gutters?
The state's 2024 code changes summary shows section R801.3, roof drainage, struck from the code effective September 14, 2026. Check your city and any HOA rules, but in most cases gutters are a homeowner choice for protecting siding, foundations and landscaping.
Keeping gutters clear
OSU recommends cleaning gutters at least twice a year, and more often under trees. IBHS's wildfire checklist also calls for clearing leaves and debris from roofs and gutters and for noncombustible gutters and downspouts, such as metal or aluminum. Late winter and spring is Oklahoma's primary wildfire season.
Signs gutters need repair
- Water spilling over the front edge in a normal rain
- Sagging sections or hangers pulling away from the fascia
- Leaking seams or corners
- Downspouts that drain against the foundation
- Peeling paint or rot on the fascia behind the gutter
Get a free estimate
Black Crown Construction offers a free on-site estimate to homeowners in the Tulsa metro and Oklahoma City. Call (918) 212-4720 or request an estimate online. Financing is available through a contractor-financing partner; ask about it during your estimate. OK Roofing Registration #80008030. Service area: Tulsa, Jenks, Broken Arrow, Bixby, Owasso, Sapulpa, Sand Springs, Glenpool, Claremore, Catoosa, Coweta, Skiatook and Oklahoma City.
Frequently asked questions
What size gutters do I need?
It depends on roof area, pitch and local rain intensity. Oklahoma State University notes the Uniform Plumbing Code recommends sizing for the 100-year, 1-hour rain; a roofer can measure your roof sections and recommend a size.
How many downspouts does a house need?
Oklahoma State University suggests one downspout per 50 feet of gutter and no more than 1,000 square feet of roof per downspout.
How often should gutters be cleaned?
At least twice a year, and more often if trees hang over the roof.
Does Oklahoma require gutters?
The statewide 2024 code adoption struck the roof drainage section, R801.3. Check your city and HOA rules for local requirements.