Most professionals point out that aluminum gutters offer the best combination of style, durability and price. Aluminum is the material used in most house gutters today. It is available with factory priming or finishing in a wide range of colors. Aluminum gutters are lightweight, but they withstand the elements well and resist rust.
You can find thinner gauge aluminum sectional gutters for DIY installation at large home improvement stores. Larger caliber aluminum is the material of choice for professional installers who manufacture custom seamless gutters. High-quality aluminum gutters can have a lifespan of 20 years or more, and offer the best value because of their durability and moderate cost. With seamless stitched gutter options, aluminum gutters have long been the preferred rain gutter for their low price and long lifespan.
The individual sections are welded together during installation, which increases the cost, but creates a true seamless gutter system. Although vinyl gutters are the most affordable type available, they tend to become brittle and discolor upon exposure to the elements, and the material isn't as tough as other options. No matter what gutter material you decide is best for your home, work with a knowledgeable gutter professional to make sure the gutters do their job instead of causing more problems. This price may vary depending on the thickness of the material, also known as caliber, as well as the size and shape of the gutter.
When you're looking for a new rain gutter system for the home, it's important to learn more about the different styles, shapes and materials before making a final decision. Another beneficial factor in choosing seam gutters is that if a section is damaged during a storm or fails in some other way, it is only necessary to replace the damaged 10-foot section instead of trying to repair or replace an entire seamless gutter system. Call a professional if your house has more than one floor or if you want seamless, custom-made gutters on site. Ultimately, the gutter material you select will largely depend on your budget, but you should also consider the architectural style of your home and your personal taste.
Copper gutters can add a distinctive, old-world atmosphere to a home, but this is the most expensive gutter material, which is why they are most often chosen for new high-end construction and historic restorations. Professional gutter installers can create seamless gutters of almost any length because they use a mobile tent to create custom gutters tailored and manufactured specifically for your home. A significant drawback of seamless gutter systems is that they are generally only available in laminated aluminum, while stitched gutters can be made of vinyl, aluminum, galvanized steel, copper or zinc. Seamless gutters are more resistant to leaks and some companies will even agree to make a custom gutter drain for you and let you install them yourself.
Discussing these options with a gutter professional will help you choose the material that best suits your home environment and needs.
