5 Low Maintenance Gutter Materials You Can Use For Your Home

Homeowners tend to overlook the importance of gutters in the overall maintenance of their homes. Gutters protect the roof and divert water away from the house. The water that will accumulate around your home during the rainy season seeps into the soil and can cause extensive water damage issues to your home’s foundation.

Gutters should ideally be maintained and cleaned on a regular basis to ensure that they are in perfect working condition. However, builders are aware that gutters tend to be forgotten because it is just a small part of a house’s exterior. This is why builders invest in using durable materials in making gutters so that they will require little to no maintenance for long periods of time.

Various types of gutters are available in the market, some with features like leaf guards for protection. Below is a list of the best materials for gutters out there.

Copper gutters

Copper becomes more durable over time. It develops a layer that protects it from dust and other harmful elements if it is exposed to outside conditions. It also prevents algae and fungi growth.

Copper is not the easiest material to install, but once you do it properly, you will barely need to readjust it again. Slight changes in its size do not affect its stability and functionality. Copper gutters fit in perfectly with any type of natural material used for your house, including wood, stone and clay.

The only downside to choosing this gutter material is that it can be expensive. Aside from the initial purchase costs, you might need to pay for installation. These gutters usually need the skilled hands of professionals to install because they require welding at the ends to make sure they last a long time.

Vinyl gutters

Vinyl gutters are very economical. They are lightweight and are easy to install. They are available in pre-cut sections that easily snap together at the joints, without the need for any sealant. What is more, vinyl gutters are made of PVC plastic, making them very durable. It will never rust or corrode and is very resistant to dents and scratches.

However, conventional vinyl gutters may become brittle and crack when continuously exposed to extreme cold and intense heat. They can also lose their color.

Aluminum gutters

Much like vinyl, aluminum gutters are lightweight and easy to install. They are rustproof and are resistant to corrosion and thinning. On the plus side, they are able to withstand cold conditions, including snow and hail.

Aluminum gutters can be painted to match your house’s design. They have the capacity to hold water, which is important especially during the rainy days.

When using aluminum gutters, the thickness of the material should be considered. Thinner aluminum gutters will cost less, but they tend to bend and are prone to dents.

Zinc gutters

Zinc is more expensive than aluminum but lasts twice longer. Although not necessarily lightweight, zinc is durable, easy to install and is highly sustainable.

Similar to copper, zinc is normally used unpainted because it will develop a layer that protects it from weathering and corrosion. In fact, many homeowners choose not to paint over this material because its natural tone can be visually quite appealing.

Since they require welding at the joints, corners, and ends, zinc gutters should be installed by professionals. This material might also not be ideal for use in locations that are exposed to salty air or on properties with cedar shingles because it can be damaged by acidic runoff. Consult your contractor first before you opt for this type of gutter.

Stainless steel gutters

Stainless steel is the sturdiest among all the gutter material types but is also comparatively expensive. Stainless steel is very durable. It can handle both hot and cold climates and can withstand harsh conditions.

The shine of stainless steel is retained, keeping your gutters looking new for a considerable amount of time. Stainless steel adds luster and improves the aesthetic appeal of your homes.

Unlike galvanized steel, stainless steel will not rust. However, it is considerably more costly. Since this material has some weight to it, it is generally recommended to have stainless steel gutters professionally installed.

Protect your gutter from the elements

It’s true that gutters are made in a way that they will not require regular maintenance but sometimes, even highly durable materials need to be protected.

Experts at Bruce Andrews Seamless Gutters are trained to install Leaflock Gutter Protection System, one of the most advanced gutter protection systems on the market. We also offer hassle-free and maintenance-free gutter drainage systems. Ask us how we can help you keep your gutter protected from the elements. Contact us today.