Rain gutters are an essential part of your home maintenance strategy protecting your property from water damage, and draining runoff from the roof, depositing it a safe distance from the foundation of your home. Because a gutter system isn’t just functional, it’s important when buying new gutters, you choose a durable, budget-friendly gutter material that is visually appealing.
Aesthetic Appeal
Because they are a prominent feature of the home’s exterior, gutters can boost your curb appeal and increase the value of your property.
Select a gutter material that complements the architectural style of your home. Aluminum gutters are popular for a reason – they work well with a wide range of different style homes. Copper, with its touch of elegance, is well-suited heritage, historic, and sophisticated residences. Modern and contemporary homes benefit from gutter materials like zinc, steel, and aluminum.
To get the most aesthetic appeal from a gutter material, match the colour of the gutter system to exterior finishing elements such as window/door trim, siding, and the roof. Also match the gutter profile to the house’s architectural style. A general rule suggested by gutter installation professionals is to us K-style gutters for most house styles and half-round gutter profiles for traditional and formal homes.
Climate
Living in a temperate climate like we do in the Pacific Northwest means a lot of rain, and when temperatures drop, the possibility of snow. The gutter material you choose for your home’s exterior should be able to handle large volumes of runoff. It must also be strong enough to support the weight of water or snow in the gutter system. While temperature fluctuations aren’t as noticeable in the lower mainland as they are in other parts of the province, the gutters should also be able to resist expansion and contraction.
Your Budget
The total cost of purchasing and installing new gutters is definitely a major factor in deciding which gutter material you will select. But before choosing one material over another because it’s less expensive, consider issues such a durability, longevity, and the resale value of your home. For example, vinyl gutters are the least expensive material, but they don’t last as long as aluminum gutters, and might not be as attractive to a home buyer looking for an eco-friendly home exterior.
Straightforward or Complex?
Some gutter materials are easier to install than others. Aluminum gutters are lightweight (manageable) while zinc and copper gutters are heavier. Installing an aluminum gutter system uses a different skill set and techniques than copper gutters. If you plan on installing the gutters as a do-it-yourself project, seamless gutters, copper gutters, and zinc or steel gutters are best left to a professional gutter installation company.
Durability
Durability is a product’s capacity to resist damage, wear and tear, and fading. When selecting a gutter material, consider how it will perform in your region’s climate; if it’s high-end quality; and its overall strength. Materials such as copper and steel can withstand the elements better than vinyl and aluminum.
Maintenance Requirements
Choose a gutter material that requires low-maintenance. Vinyl gutters are easy to maintain but can be prone to cracking, blistering, and colour fading.Copper, steel, zinc, and aluminum are more resistant to the elements and deterioration.
