Sectional vs. Seamless Gutters: Which is Better?

A quality gutter system is critical to protect your home from water damage and basement flooding. However, not every homeowner pays attention to their gutter system. Some fail to maintain the troughs and downspouts or replace the system when it’s weathered and timeworn.

When it’s time to replace your gutter system, it’s important to know that regular, sectional gutters aren’t your only option. Many homeowners are switching to seamless gutters for their many benefits. An experienced seamless gutter contractor can ensure that your gutter system is durable and cost-effective, maximizing your investment.

So, how do seamless gutters differ from sectional gutters?

Sectional Gutters

Sectional or seamed gutters are sold in pieces, which you patch together to build your gutter system. The portions usually come in 10 to 20-foot pieces and are joined using an adhesive or a snap system.

Pros

Because this gutter system is sold in pieces, sectional gutters are the popular choice for DIY projects. They typically come in kits that contain the gutter pieces, connectors, and other components you’ll need. You can easily install the gutters yourself as long as you have screws, a power drill, and a hacksaw (in case you need to shorten the gutter pieces).

Seamed gutters are also cheaper compared to seamless ones. There are plenty of models and brands that sell affordable but high-quality gutter systems in the market, available in various materials.

Cons

Sectional gutters, however, are more prone to leakage due to the seams between the gutter pieces. They’re also more likely to rust compared to seamless gutters. Moisture can get trapped in the joints between steel sectional gutters, which can lead to rust. Rusted gutters become brittle, cracking when the trough becomes heavy with blockage or ice dams.

Plus, DIY gutter installation can be difficult, especially for first-timers. It may be wiser to have them installed by an expert, but this will cost you more in labor.

Seamless Gutters

The main difference between sectional and seamless gutters is that the latter is one continuous system. Built from a single piece of material, seamless gutters don’t need fasteners or joints. The only joints they have are in the corners and on the downspouts.

Pros

One of the obvious benefits of seamless gutters is they significantly reduce the likelihood of leakage. Since most gutter leaks happen at the joints, seamless gutters are leak-free, except for on the corners where there are seams.

Since there are no joints within the length of the gutter, seamless gutters are less likely to develop rust. They also have more rigidity and strength since they consist of one solid piece of material.

Since they’re less prone to leaks and rust, seamless gutters have a longer life expectancy. This makes up for the higher installation cost.

Cons

Seamless gutters are custom-fitted to your house, which means you need a professional to cut, measure, and install them for you. You can’t DIY the installation of seamless gutters. The labor can rack up the upfront costs, especially since the gutters themselves are already a bit pricey.

Ultimately, seamless gutters are more cost-effective in the long run. They perform better and last longer than sectional gutters, giving you your money’s worth. Make sure to hire a seamless gutter installation company that is known for its quality service.

Interested in Seamless Gutter Installation?

Upgrade your gutters today and invest in a superior, maintenance-free system. Bruce Andrews Seamless Gutters, LLC is among the leading seamless gutter contractors in Wisconsin. We offer rain gutter installation and gutter protection solutions that protect your property from water damage.

Call us at 877-594-7449 today to get a free quote and assessment.