Gutter Installation: Which Type of Gutter Should I Choose?

Gutter Installation is an important job that will have a large effect on the structure and health of your home. Gutters are a vital part of your home’s roofing system and they add protection from water, debris, and melting snow. Every home is different and no two people have the same budget or needs, so researching gutter installation options is an important part of the process. Whether you are looking for an inexpensive option like vinyl, or a high-end investment like copper, it is important to self-educate before making a big decision. Here are the top 5 gutter options and the pros and cons of each.

1. Aluminum Gutter Installation

   • One of the most popular options, aluminum gutters are light-weight, weather-resistant, and rust-proof. They make up over 80% of gutters installed on homes in the United States and are considered a universal option for residential and commercial properties. Aluminum gutters last around 25 years and are available in a variety of colors. They come in two states, primary and secondary aluminum. Primary aluminum is thicker and stronger, while secondary aluminum thinner and made up of recycled materials. Aluminum gutters that are less strong have the risk of being dented by branches and hail or misshapen by ladders. Choosing primary aluminum gutters will save you from this headache.

   • PROS:

     • Lightweight but strong
     • Rust-proof
     • Long-lasting
     • Can be painted

   • CONS:

     • Can be less durable depending on the quality
     • Not as strong as copper

2. Copper Gutter Installation

   

   • Beautiful and extremely durable, copper gutters can last anywhere around 100 years in any climate. Copper gutters oxidize to a matte brown a couple of months after installation and will develop its classic blue-green patina over the next few years that will last for decades. With the highest curb appeal, copper gutters are not only sturdy and weather-resistant, but eye-catching. Because of the quality and material, copper gutters are more expensive and require professional installation. Like aluminum gutters, copper gutters will never rust. In addition, because of copper’s natural antimicrobial properties, mold and mildew will never be an issue. Copper gutters are also your best option if you have a slate roof. If you’re looking to invest in a long-lasting gutter system that will offer durability and heightened curb-appeal, then copper gutters are the best choice for you!

   • PROS:

     • Beautiful
     • Sturdy
     • Durable
     • Do not rust

   • CONS:

     • Higher investment
     • Heavy
     • Not a DIY-project

3. Zinc Gutter Installation

   • A sustainable and eco-friendly option, Zinc alloy gutters require less energy to convert them into recycled material. The International Zinc Association (IZA) says that over 30% of zinc used in building materials is sourced from recycled zinc. Not only sustainable, zinc gutters, like aluminum, are virtually immune to corrosion and, like copper, develop a nice patina over time. Zinc coppers cost more than aluminum gutters but offer twice the lifespan and require very little maintenance. One downside to zinc gutters is that if you live in a coastal area, the high salt content in the air will cause the gutters to stain. Like copper, zinc has natural antimicrobial properties, and mold, moss, mildew, and fungus will not be an issue. Because of the quality of materials, zinc gutters need to be installed by professionals. If you are looking for an eco-friendly, durable, and long-lasting gutter, then zinc is your best option!

   • PROS:

     • Longer lasting than aluminum gutters
     • Durable
     • High curb appeal
     • More affordable than copper

   • CONS:

     • Unsafe for coastal regions
     • More expensive

4. Vinyl Gutter Installation

   • Vinyl gutters are a more economical option. They are easy to install and you don’t have to worry about rusting. Vinyl gutters are lightweight and snap easily together, making installation much easier for the DIY-er. Unfortunately, vinyl gutters are not as durable as metal gutters and crack over time from exposure to sunlight and cold temperatures. If you are living in a mild climate and are looking for inexpensive gutters, vinyl gutters would be a good choice. However, with our New England climate, these may not be your best option.

   • PROS:

     • Inexpensive
     • Easy to install
     • Won’t rust

   • CONS:

     • Not the most durable option
     • Cracks over time from sunlight and cold temperatures
     • Not supportive of ladders

5. Wood Gutter Installation

   • Wood gutters aren’t normally the top choice for homeowners, but in some cases, due to appearance or living in a historic district, it can be the best option. Until the 1960’s wooden gutters were the top choice for homeowners and were subsequently replaced by metal gutters. Today, wood gutters are featured in restoration work and to uphold the historic integrity of the home. A beautiful choice, wood gutters are effective at diverting water away from your home and, depending on the wood material, are more effective at withstanding harsh environments. Because of the complexity of the design, wooden gutters are harder and more expensive to install. In addition, they do require regular maintenance and upkeep. If you have a historic home or are looking to enhance the appearance of your home, then wood gutters are the best option for you!

   • PROS:

     • A great option for historic homes
     • Old-fashioned and traditional appearance
     • Effective against harsh environment

   • CONS:

     • Expensive installation
     • Regular maintenance
     • Prone to splitting and cracking

With this knowledge, now the next step is to find a trusted and reputable roofing company to complete the gutter installation for you! Don’t wait too long before booking an appointment, as roofing company slots often get taken!