While steel gutters have been the popular choice from commercial and industrial buildings, over the last few years, steel gutters residential installations have increased in demand. Homeowners have discovered some distinct advantages of a steel gutter system, including cost-effectiveness, durability, and being environmentally friendly.
There are two types of steel gutters.
As far as gutter materials go, steel will rust faster than aluminum. To address this problem, manufacturers offer consumers who are interested in purchasing a steel gutter system two choices – galvanized steel or stainless steel. Galvanized steel has a zinc coating that protects the gutters from deterioration caused by contact with air and moisture. To make it rust-resistant, stainless steel is produced by combining at least 10% chromium with steel – depending on the brand, it can contain other components in different ratios. Taking into account the location, size of the house, and annual rainfall, a gutter installation technician will be able to advise you which type of steel gutters will be best for your specific situation.
Steel gutters are cost-effective.
Steel gutters are slightly more expensive per linear foot than aluminum gutters. As a gutter material, steel tends to be heavier and not as flexible, making steel gutters more complicated and longer to install. Depending on the gutter company you hire installation or labour costs might also be higher. However, when you factor in lifespan and maintenance requirements (low-maintenance), a steel gutter system might be the more cost-effective choice for your home.
Seamless steel gutters reduce leaks.
A sectional steel gutter system has sections of guttering that are joined together. But the benefits of standard steel gutters can be increased by the installation of seamless steel gutters. Because there are fewer joints or seams – they will appear only in the corners where the gutter run changes direction – the number of places where leaks can occur are reduced.
A steel gutter system is more durable.
Steel is known for its strength – it’s a good reputation for gutters to have, making steel gutter systems durable and long-lasting. Both types of steel gutters, galvanized and stainless, have protective coatings that are rust resistant, dent/wind resistant, and temperature fluctuation resistant. Since steel doesn’t dent easily like aluminum gutters do, you can rest a ladder directly against a gutter section while cleaning it.
Steel is an environmentally friendly gutter material.
Steel has the lowest carbon footprint of most types of gutter materials. Steel gutters can be recycled; some manufacturers make their gutters from recycled steel. Because steel gutters last from 30 to 40 years, it doesn’t need replacing as often as other types of gutter materials, excluding copper.
Increase your curb appeal with stainless steel gutters.
Stainless steel gutters make your home’s exterior stand out because of their natural shine that is sleek and modern. If you select seamless steel gutters, you boost your curb appeal even more with fewer brackets to “clutter” up the view of a smooth gutter run.