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With so many options available, choosing the best type of guttering for your home can be overwhelming to say the least. Between figuring out what material, shape, and colour you should go for, it’s important to make choices that guarantee the highest performing gutter within your budget.
If you’re struggling to figure out the best option for your property, there are many good gutter installation companies like Gutter Guys who can help you choose the right gutter for your home. Our handy how-to guide will help you make up your mind as well.
1. Vinyl Gutters
Vinyl rain gutters are both super easy to install, and a cheaper choice for the budget-conscious home-improver. They can even be painted, so you don’t have to worry about your rain gutters being an unsightly blemish on the side of your beautiful home.
Unlike metal alternatives, vinyl gutters aren’t susceptible to erosion or rust, however, exposure to both frost and sunlight can lead to cracking.
Because of this, you might find yourself replacing vinyl gutters more often. We recommend gutters as a great option for milder climates, where freezing and thawing is less likely to cause irreparable damage.
2. Steel Gutters
If you’re looking to invest in gutters that truly stand the test of time, steel gutters are definitely worth considering. Between galvanised and stainless steel gutters, we recommend opting for the later if it’s within your budget.
Stainless steel gutters are practically indestructible. This rust-resistant option is made from the strongest material on the market, so you never have to worry about sagging or weight-related damage.
The only downside to steel guttering, is the cost. Definitely not recommended as a DIY project, you’ll need a professional to install this heavy-weight solution on your property. Be prepared to pay up to five times more for professionally installed steel guttering compared to vinyl.
Read Also:
- How Much Does Gutter Installation Cost? This is What to Expect to Pay
- Roof Maintenance: 5 Tips for Keeping Your Gutters in Good Shape
- Why Clean Gutters are Vital to Home Maintenance
- Step by Step: Clean and Protect Your Gutters
- 4 Simple Tips for Avoiding a Clogged Gutter
- The Importance of Gutter and Roof Cleaning
3. Aluminium Gutters
Aluminium gutters are not the only budget-friendly, they’re also easy to install and resistant to both rusting and sagging. With all this in mind, it’s clear why aluminium gutters are one of the most popular options available. As well as this, they’re far more weather resistant than their vinyl counterpart.
However, this lightweight metal is prone to dent or bend, making it less structurally strong than some of the alternatives in the industry. We recommend opting for a thicker metal if you live in an area with heavy snowfall.
4. Copper Gutters
If you can afford them, copper gutters are both a durable and aesthetically-pleasing guttering option for your home. Resistant to both rust and mold, copper gutters develop a beautiful patina over time, and don’t require painting or upkeep after installation like other market alternatives.
Although these virtually indestructible rain gutters have a lifespan of approximately 100 years, the only downside is the price. Copper gutters will need to be professionally installed, and the total cost including installation is almost three times that of stainless steel.
The Take-away
If you’re considering a gutter option for your home, you can see there is a range of choices available. Our top tip? Balance your budget with long term performance to see which type of gutter is the right one for you and the climate you live in. If in doubt, you can always contact a roofing specialist for a professional opinion.
