When investing in new eavestroughs/gutters material choices can be overwhelming this article will address the pros and cons of each and how long they last.
1. Easily the most popular is aluminum.
Aluminum gutters are durable and light weight. They will not rust or corrode, they are usually seamless with custom mitre corners. They come in they widest variety of colors and styles. Aluminum is best suited for residential homes hence why its so popular. The downside to aluminum is it’s a softer metal its prone to denting but proper maintenance of trees and such can eliminate the risk. These gutters have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years.
2. Vinyl or PVC gutters/eavestroughs.
These are a plastic type gutter usually smaller in size then their metal counterparts. Usually found in local hardware stores they are not seamless they come in 10 to 12 foot sections. They are cheap and lightweight but that’s about the only pros to them. They easily crack and break in cold weather they can’t sustain large volumes of water. They only way we recommend them is for a shed or smaller building as a diy gutter. These gutters often fail within 3 years with many having issues from the get go.
3. Copper gutters/Eavestroughs.
Copper gutters are a work of art there beautiful. Similar to a steel gutter they are super strong and durable. They come in the same profiles as the aluminum and steel. Copper is mainly used for the visual look anyone looking to get an antique look. There is no added benefit to them other than a bit stronger than aluminum. The downside is the cost, they can be twice as expensive as aluminum. These gutters can last 15 to 25 years.
4.Steel gutter/eavestrough.
The most durable material for gutters. Steel is the most heavy duty it can withstand the harshest climates, however steel is the heaviest of all the options resulting in it being the most expensive. Steel is great for big shops, barns, commercial buildings, and houses with large metal roofs. This option is likely overkill for most residential homes. steel gutters can last 25 to 35 years.
Each gutter material gives certain benefits and has its own unique features. Knowing the differences better helps you make the right decisions for you and your home. If you have any questions about cost or anything gutter related we are here to help feel free to reach out.
