Aluminum

Aluminum is one of the main engineering materials known for its durability and functionality. It is the most widespread and lightest metal on Earth. Its properties include extreme flexibility and resistance to corrosion. Aluminum is very easy to process in the sense that you can roll, pull and stamp it. It is fire resistant too and it isn’t toxic at all.

When it comes to aluminum gutters the main advantage of installing it is being waterproof and can last up to 25 years. Holding more water is another important fact about aluminum gutters because we can be sure that it will last in case of heavy rain. It is a very customizable material which means that it is available in different sizes and thicknesses. This will ensure that the gutter will fit perfectly on your roof.

There are two downsides of aluminum gutters. First is that they rust faster, so you must take proper care of the enamel layer. The second is that very high and fast changing temperatures can be harmful to your aluminum gutter.

Copper

Copper is a shiny, reddish and third most consumed metal in the world. They are considered a bit more decorative and lasting than aluminum gutters. Copper doesn’t rust, crack, or wear out that fast. There are some elements which people consider cons of choosing copper. The price is way higher than an aluminum gutter. Additionally, if you decide to use copper gutter, all other elements, such as nails, fittings and fasteners must be of the same material. If you mix it with aluminum, it will probably corrode the copper.

Cooper gutter systems must be custom-made, and that is its advantage because there are no joints that can leak. It requires additional cost if it breaks down and it will take longer to replace it. But on the other hand, it can add a beautiful touch to the exterior of your home. Also, remember that it can last from 80 to 100 years. Our team has experience in installing custom copper gutters for your home that will last for decades.

Steel

Steel rain gutter are the strongest roofing type of gutter material. As aluminum, steel gutter can be of any desired color, but people will most likely choose white or brown since it blends with the exterior. It owns many advantages. Steel is sturdy and can resist harsh weather conditions, hail and will not bend under installer’s ladders. It is an eco-friendly and recyclable option, the same as aluminum.

Steel gutters are usually attached to the roof by brackets, both exterior and hidden, or strap gangers. It expands less than aluminum, but for its installation, seams expansion is required. One disadvantage may be rust since it is not rust-resistant like other gutter systems. You would probably need to replace it every 10 years. They are more difficult to install, too because of their weight.

Vinyl

Vinyl gutter are famous because of their cost and they don’t require high maintenance. Furthermore, vinyl gutter won’t rust, dent, or corrode over time. It is a lightweight, plastic material, also known as PVC and you can buy it at DIY stores. Even though it can be installed by snapping together pieces, vinyl gutters have many seams.

Durability is probably the biggest downside of vinyl gutters. Vinyl gutters resist rust and corrosion, but constant exposure to changing temperatures can make it crack and brittle. During the winter season in places with a lot of rain, vinyl gutter will probably be damaged beyond repair. In mild and dry climate, they can last up to 20 years.

Pros

• Regular gutters cost less than seamless since they are stock material and not tailored made.
• If repair is necessary, you can replace only one section.
• If you are handy and good with housework you can perform DIY installation.

Cons

• By installing regular gutters, you are required to perform regular maintenance and cleaning. You must reseal seams and unclog any waste.
• Holes and gaps in joints can cause leaks.
• When it comes to your home’s exterior look, many joints put together around the house can seem unappealing.

K-style

K-style rain gutters are very popular in the last 50 years, but older homeowners still purchase them today. When you spot it from the side, it somewhat looks like letter K. This style of gutter may be directly nailed to the fascia board because it has flat back. Its front side is very decorative and looks like crown molding. K-style gutters can carry more water because of flat bottoms and straight-angled sides. They are specially designed for areas where rainfall is common. The only disadvantage is that K-style gutters are hard to clean since inner angles gather rotting waste.

Customized Fascia Gutters

This gutter style can make your exterior look more contemporary and sleek. Fascia gutters aren’t sold in pieces that you can put together, so the joint is likely to rust and leak after some time. These gutters are custom build and they come in one whole section made of aluminum. Sometimes they cost twice the K-style gutter, and we don’t recommend installing them by yourself.

Half-Round Gutters

Half-round gutters make up part of the traditional building style which started around 1960s. Also, if your neighborhood is older and has historical value, local authorities may even require installing this gutter. This gutter has tube cut in half-like shape and isn’t particularly decorative and appealing. Half-round gutters are exposed to debris and leaf clogs so if you decide on this gutter style make sure to install leaf guard too. You would also need brackets because their curved sides won’t have direct contact with fascia board.