Most of us don’t ever think about the gutters on our homes. We don’t stop to consider what they are for and as long as they are working efficiently, we don’t really need to. But if you are building a new home, or the gutter system on your current home is old and failing, you will need to think about buying a system. If so, you may be wondering what gutters are made from and what type is best for your home.
Gutter Materials
Rainguard gutters can be made from different materials and are also available in a few styles. The people at Global Gutter Systems tell us that the most common material for gutters is aluminum because of how versatile it is. Aluminum gutters come in assorted styles, sizes, and colors to match the aesthetic of the home. Available in a variety of thicknesses to suit the budget and requirements of the installer, aluminum gutters are an ideal choice because they are easy to work with. They are weatherproof and rustproof, meaning they should last for up to twenty-five years. They are quite light and prone to denting or bending under heavy weight.
Gutters are also commonly made from vinyl, which is perhaps the least expensive option. These are ideal for self-installers because they are easy to cut and can be snapped together easily. One of the biggest drawbacks with vinyl gutters is the fact that they can become brittle when exposed to high temperatures and strong sunlight. They are ideal for those who live in milder climates, but for areas prone to extreme temperatures and weather conditions, vinyl gutters may not be the best choice.
If you are looking for a really stunning aesthetic and have the budget, copper gutters are the choice. Copper gutter systems are a fabulous addition to any home and they not only look beautiful, but they are also suitable for high heat and very cold temperatures. They are strong enough to cope with heavy rain and snow, too. However, it is worth remembering that copper gutters are unsuitable for DIY installation and because they are more difficult to work with than other types of gutter material. The cost of materials and labor can be quite high as well.
Some homeowners opt for steel gutters, which can be painted in a color of the homeowner’s choice. Strong and sturdy, steel gutters are not affected by heavy rain or snow. But they are prone to oxidization, which can look ugly and which affects their lifespan. Furthermore, they too need to be professionally installed, making them a more expensive option than the likes of aluminum or vinyl.
Choosing Guttering for Your Home
There is a lot to consider when it comes to buying gutters for your home. The material you choose will affect the price and how the system must be installed. But there is a bit more to think about than the material used to make the gutters. You will also need to factor in the size of gutter system that you want and whether to go for a seamed or seamless style.
Gutters come in different widths, with the standard size being 5 or 6 inches. However, if you live in an area prone to a lot of rain, you may need wider gutters. In terms of seamed and seamless gutters, seamless are typically preferred because they are less prone to leaks. But they do need to be installed by the professionals.
To conclude, there are a few materials to choose from when buying gutters for your home. It is recommended to talk to a professional gutter company to choose the most suitable option for your home.
