In the world of gutter materials, there are a few options to choose from, but five materials are a cut above the rest. Discover what these materials are and what they can do.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a very common material for a gutter system. It’s available in three formats. There are thin aluminum gutters, average aluminum gutters, and thick aluminum gutters. The thinnest gutters are about .025 inches thick, thicker gutters are about .027 inches, and the thickest gutters are approximately .032 inches thick.
The thinnest gutters are the least expensive, but they’re not the strongest. Thick aluminum gutters cost more, they’re stronger, and they will less likely bend.
Pros
Aluminum gutters are easy to install, and they will not rust.
There are many aluminum gutter color schemes to choose from. You can even paint the gutters according to your preferences.
Aluminum is a long-lasting material. It will stay in good condition for up to 25 years.
Cons
Lightweight aluminum gutters will not hold up well during severe weather events.
Vinyl
Vinyl gutters are also common. They’re somewhat similar to aluminum gutters when it comes to price, style, and durability.
If you need options, vinyl gutters are not ideal because they’re only available in a few colors. However, if you have the time and the right tools, you could touch up generic vinyl gutters with a fresh coat of paint.
Pros
Vinyl gutters do not have a learning curve. They’re easy to install and use.
Due to vinyl’s scientific properties, it holds up well in climates that have salty air.
Cons
When vinyl is exposed to high heat, the material can become brittle.
If painted vinyl gutters are exposed to excessive sunlight, the paint will fade.
Vinyl is not very strong under pressure. If you prop a ladder against a vinyl gutter, the material could crack.
Zinc
Zinc is one of the best materials on the market for gutters. When zinc gutters are installed, they will appear dull. However, the color of the material will change over time. It will slowly develop a patina tone.
Pros
A zinc gutter system will never rust, warp, or fade.
Cons
Zinc gutter systems have many complicated parts, so a professional must tackle the installation.
Steel
There are two types of steel gutters. The first option is a galvanized steel gutter system. These gutters get their strength from the galvanized coating. However, galvanized finishes can’t resist the effects of oxidation. In most cases, the metal on a galvanized steel gutter system will start to oxidize within 10 to 15 years. The second option is a stainless-steel gutter system. Stainless steel is a more expensive material, and it’s more durable. Because of this, it will never rust, so it will never need a galvanized coating.
Pros
Steel gutters will hold up well in many climates, and they can be painted.
Cons
Galvanized steel gutters can rust in a rainy climate.
Steel gutters are heavy, so they are not easy to install.
Copper
Copper is one of the priciest gutter materials on the market for a few reasons. First, it’s highly durable and very strong. Second, its old-world design provides character, and third, the look of a copper gutter system can give a home instant curb appeal.
Pros
A copper gutter system is a viable long-term investment. With proper care, copper gutters can protect a home for up to 100 years.
Copper stands out on its own. It will never need a coat of paint.
Cons
A copper gutter system is not easy to set up. You’ll need to hire a professional.
Gutter Strategies
Gutter systems have unique many parts; some of these parts will have different materials. If you learn how to identify the general components, the selection process will be much easier.
The Downspouts
The downspouts are placed on the side of a home. They direct water from a roof to the ground.
The Downspout Elbow
This is an angled component; it’s found on the downspout near the ground. It directs water away from a home.
Pipe Cleats
Pipe cleats secure the downspouts against a home.
End Caps
End caps are components that seal off a gutter.
Hangers
Hangers are found under a gutter. They’re used to prevent sagging.
Ferrules
A ferrule is a special hollow shaft that encloses a component known as a spike. The spike attaches a gutter to a home.
The Journey to the Right Gutter
If you need help picking a proper gutter system for your home, we’re here to help. Just contact us at Ace Home Improvements.
