Choosing the right gutter material for your home is a big decision. Gutters, regardless of the type, should do two things – protect a home from the elements and look good while doing it. When living in the Pacific Northwest, preventing water damage to your home’s exterior is vital and selecting the right gutter system can be even more challenging. Here are some practical tips to help you find the right gutters for your coastal home.
Determine Gutter System Requirements
Gutters for coastal homes need to combat salt air, high humidity, coastal winds, sudden storms, heavy persistent rainfalls, and sand and debris. To determine the gutter system that will provide the best protection for your home consider the following.
- Proximity to salt air
- Exposure to water
- The roof’s square footage to determine gutter system size (perhaps 6-inch instead of the standard residential 5-inch)
- Proper gutter pitch to ensure efficient drainage
- Spacing hangers closer together (every 18” instead of the standard 24”) to secure the system in high-wind areas
- Hardware designed to handle a coastal environment
Gutter Materials for Coastal Climates
Gutter materials for coastal climates should be resistant to corrosion such as aluminum (heavy gauge), copper, and stainless steel. Professional gutter installers recommend seamless gutters for coastal homes over sectional gutter systems because they provide maximum protection, are durable, and enhance curb appeal.
Since they don’t do well in coastal environments, gutter materials to avoid are galvanized steel, Galvalume, and zinc.
Aluminum Gutters
Aluminum is a common gutter material for coastal homes because it’s low maintenance, corrosion-resistant, and durable. A gutter system constructed of this lightweight material suits Pacific Northwest weather conditions because it is wind-resistant and strong. To ensure it can withstand a true coastal environment, select a heavy gauge aluminum that is at least .032.
Since aluminum gutters are available in a variety of colours, gutter profiles, and sizes, there are plenty of customizable options. Aluminum gutters enhance the overall appearance of your home’s exterior, boosts curb appeal, and complements most architectural styles.
Copper Gutters
While copper gutters are typically a high-end gutter material, they are popular with home owners who enjoy the timeless appearance they lend a home’s exterior. A copper gutter system has a lifespan of 50 to 100 years, resists mould growth, and is environmentally-friendly. Because of their longevity, durability, and resistance to salt corrosion, copper gutters are well-suited for harsh coastal climates.
Stainless Steel Gutters
Stainless steel gutters are a good choice for coastal homes because they provide excellent resistance to salt-air corrosion. A stainless steel gutter system is very durable, with a lifespan of 50 or more years and is totally recyclable when it eventually does have to be replaced. Stainless steel gutters are structurally strong, making them less likely to sag, warp, or become misaligned during the high winds and active storms common to coastal areas.
