Vinyl and aluminum gutters are considered to be two of the best types of gutters because they are cost-effective, which means that because of what they cost, they do their job well. And they're not too expensive either. Stainless steel gutters are another great option, but they come at a higher price. Their open shape, similar to a trough, makes them prone to clogging leaves and dirt, which is why many homeowners choose to install leaf protectors.
In addition, their curved sides mean that they are not aligned against the fascia boards, so supports are usually required to hold them in place. While semicircular gutters aren't particularly decorative, they're the traditional style found in homes built before 1960; if you live in an older neighborhood or historic home, local ordinances may require this type of rain gutter. It depends on the material from which the gutter is made. Vinyl gutters last only about 10 years, while copper gutters can last 100 years.
Gutters made of the most commonly used material, aluminum, last about 25 years. Gutter experts consider vinyl gutters to be the best option. They have a lot of benefits, such as how easy they are to install and the way they never rust. In fact, they are so easy to install that homeowners can easily do it themselves because these gutters are lightweight and easily assembled.
They are also one of the most economical options. Aluminum gutters are also a popular option. Like vinyl gutters, they do not rust and are easy to install. However, if you live in colder climates, aluminum gutters are a better option because they don't crack or degrade as easily in colder temperatures.
With aluminum gutters, you can also paint them to match the color of the exterior of your house. The only downside is that aluminum can easily dent or bend and lose its shape. However, you can combat this by choosing only high-quality aluminum for your gutters. Stainless steel gutters are also a great option, but are more expensive than vinyl or aluminum gutters.
However, on the positive side, they are stronger and stronger than the other two types of gutters and do not rust. There are other decisions you should make besides the type of gutter for your new system, such as choosing between sectional or seamless and K-shaped or semicircular. Aluminum gutters are the only type that offers a seamless option, such as seamless semicircular gutters. Also note that K-shaped gutters can carry more water than semicircular ones and are generally stronger.
The most popular type of gutters installed are seamless, which are custom designed on site. Metals such as copper and stainless steel are generally chosen for high-end installations. And although wood is no longer rarely used, architectural purists will opt for it. Here we take a look at the three types of installed gutter systems.
And while leaf protectors help extend the life of any type of rain gutter, they are especially important with galvanized steel gutters, as soaked masses of fallen leaves accelerate the appearance of rust. This is the most common type of homes built in the last 50 years, although many owners of older homes still install them today. When replacing your gutter system, one of the most important decisions you'll have to make is what type of gutter material to use. And while copper is extremely durable (not affected by any weather conditions, from the highest heat to the coldest cold), it is also the most expensive type of rain gutter and is not suitable for installation by yourself.
Within that spectrum, there are a number of options to explore as you decide which type of gutter is best for you. We have designed and installed custom gutter systems for all types of properties, from apartment buildings and single-family homes to commercial properties. Seamless gutters, the most popular professionally installed type of gutter today, are extruded from metal coils, using a special machine that a gutter manufacturer brings home. .