There are many types available, so it can be hard to choose the best types of gutters for your home. This important level of protection means you need to make a good choice in the material and style. We’re going to look at 5 best types of gutters for a variety of homes, classified by material. Some gutter types can be made seamless, which can provide many advantages for an extra cost. Ultimately, your choice will depend on the style and durability you require of your gutters, as well as the budget you’re working with.
Best Types of Gutters
Different materials vary in their strength, durability, cost, and ease of assembly. The five best types of gutters are vinyl, aluminum, galvanized steel, stainless steel, and copper.
Vinyl Gutters
Vinyl gutters are popular because they are very simple to install. Sections snap together easily and can be installed by a homeowner with little experience. Vinyl will never rust, and its lightweight material makes it inexpensive. Vinyl is the best type of gutter if you’re looking for something effective on a budget.
Vinyl gutters don’t last as long as other gutter types because over time the material can become brittle and crack, especially in cold temperatures. It will likely need replacing faster than other gutter systems, but the savings are hard to beat.
Aluminum Gutters
Aluminum gutters are also very lightweight, but unlike vinyl, they are rust-proof and weather resistant. They are also a cost-effective gutter option, depending on whether you choose primary or secondary aluminum. Primary aluminum is thicker and stronger, where secondary aluminum is a little thinner as it’s made of mostly recycled materials.
Aluminum that is less strong can be dented by hail or branches and misshapen by ladders. Aluminum has the advantage of being available in seamless varieties. This increases its durability, but also the cost.
Galvanized Steel Gutters
Galvanized steel gutters are very strong and very sturdy. They are a long-lasting gutter option and not as susceptible to dents like aluminum. Galvanized steel is vulnerable to rust, however, and will eventually need to be replaced for this reason.
Stainless Steel Gutters
Stainless steel is as sturdy and long-lasting as its galvanized cousin, but it is also rust-proof, and therefore resistant to weather. This added durability comes with a higher price tag, sometimes twice or three times as expensive as cheaper gutter types. However, stainless steel is the best type of gutter for the homeowner that doesn’t want to worry about having to replace them.
Stainless steel gutters can also be made seamless, which increases their capability and strength.
Copper Gutters
Copper gutters are the most expensive gutter type, even more than stainless steel. They are just as sturdy and weather resistant, but the copper finish makes them the most attractive gutter type. Copper gutters are noticeable on a home’s exterior and add to its curb appeal.
Some home styles particularly benefit from the addition of copper gutters. This factor makes it the best type of gutter if curb appeal is your most important consideration, particularly if it’s more important than price.
Seamless vs. Sectional Gutters
As mentioned earlier, some gutter types can be made seamless, while others are only available in sectional varieties. The advantage of seamless gutters is that they have fewer weak points. Over time, erosion from water or other traveling debris can get stuck on and widen gaps in the sections, particularly in economy gutters.
Seamless gutters eliminate these holding points, making for a longer-lasting design. It’s the best type of gutter if you want your investment in your gutters to be protected. Aluminum and stainless steel are a few examples of gutter types that can be made seamless. Your gutter supplier will be able to help you choose the best seamless gutter type for your home.
And the Winner Is… You
All of these gutter options will provide a quality service to you and your home, helping to collect excess rainwater and channel it away from vulnerable places on your home’s exterior. The deciding factors for the best type of gutters are going to depend on you and your home’s needs.
Would you rather spend a little extra for added durability, or do you want to complete your new gutter project on a tight budget? Vinyl and aluminum will be inexpensive options, but aluminum could be the more durable choice.
Is the appearance of your gutters important to you, or is their only purpose efficiency? Copper is the most attractive but probably the most expensive. The best-looking for its value is probably seamless stainless steel.
Are you planning to have help installing your gutters, or do you plan to DIY? Vinyl sectional gutters can be assembled and installed with ease, while some of the heavier materials might require professional assistance.
No matter what type of gutter you’re looking for, Werner Roofing can help. While we specialize in seamless gutters, which really make your life easier, we also install more traditional vinyl gutters, too. Request a free, no-obligation quote today!
