With several different types of gutters to choose from, how do you know which kind of gutter material will be the right one for your home? A gutter system should be strong, durable, and efficiently manage the rainfall that typically falls in your region. Knowing the pros and cons pros of each type of gutter material will give you a better understanding of what is available and help you to decide which gutters are best for your home.
Aluminum Gutters
Aluminum gutters are the most popular choice with many homeowners. It’s easy to install for both the professional contractor and the do-it-yourselfer. They adapt well to fluctuating climate conditions, do not rust, and can be painted if and when you want to update your home’s exterior without the expense of replacing the gutter system.
Pros of Aluminum Gutters
- Budget-friendly
- Low-maintenance
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Rust-resistant
- Available in a variety of designs and colour options
- Paintable
Cons of Aluminum Gutters
- Prone to fluctuation temperatures (expand and contract)
- Prone to corrosion – it’s rust-resistant because of its protective coating which can be worn away or damaged over time making the system susceptible to saltwater, sea air, coastal winds, etc.
- Can be dented – pressure (leaning ladders), impact (hailstones),
Copper Gutters
Copper gutters are that perfect combination of function and aesthetics, enhancing curb appeal and boosting property values. A copper gutter system is resistant to acidic rain, mold, and corrosion. Many homeowners are attracted to the rich patina copper gutters develop over time.
Pros of Copper Gutters
- Long-lasting
- Durable
- Doesn’t rust
- Green/grey-blue/blue patina
Cons of Copper Gutters
- Expensive -gutter material and installation
- Adds weight to the roof
- Installation requires a professional gutter technician
- Develops a patina – some homeowners prefer the original copper colour
Steel Gutters
Steel gutters are known for their strength and dependability. Types of steel gutters include galvanized, stainless, and galvalume, which are treated with coatings to make them resistant to corrosion and rusting, unlike regular steel gutters, A steel gutter system performs well in extreme weather conditions and handles large volumes of runoff.
Pros of Steel Gutters
- Strong and sturdy
- Adaptable to all climates
- Durable (galvanized, stainless, galvalume)
- Rust resistant (galvanized, stainless, galvalume)
- Paintable
Cons of Steel Gutters
- More expensive than aluminum gutters
- Heavy
- Difficult to install – not recommended for do-it-yourselfers
- Untreated – becomes susceptible to corrosion after 12 to 15 years
Vinyl Gutters
Vinyl gutters are the least expensive per linear foot of all of the other types of gutter materials. They are a popular choice with do-it-yourselfers because they’re easy to install, lightweight, and require little maintenance.
Pros of Vinyl Gutters
- Very affordable
- Easy to install
- Available in a variety of colours and styles
- Rust and corrosion resistant
- Quieter than metal gutters when water is flowing through the gutter channels
Cons of Vinyl Gutters
- Not an environmentally-friendly gutter material
- Lifespan is shorter than metal gutters – 10 to 15 years
- Prone to warping when exposed to direct heat (fires, barbecues, extreme temperature changes)
- Prone to cracking as the gutter system ages
- Lower weight-bearing capacity
- Colour fades over time
