MATERIAL CHOICES
Aluminum
Aluminum is the most popular gutter material on the market. It’s affordable, durable, lightweight, and easy to work with. Aluminum is quite customizable so you can create a one of a kind solution for your home. This ensures that the gutters are shaped to fit any space on the roof or down the side of the house. Aluminum will not rust over time, and is available in different gauges, thickness, and an array of colors. Aluminum gutters, however, cannot be installed on roofs that use algae-resistant shingles or copper flashing . The copper particles, which help the roof resist algae growth, may cause corrosion of the aluminum when moisture is present. So, any copper particles washed into the gutter by rain can eventually break down and cause the aluminum gutter to fail. Aluminum gutters last on average 20 years.
Steel
Galvanized steel gutters will eventually start showing signs of rust after 10 years, but steel is strong and durable, making it a popular option for regions that experience extreme weather, heavy rains, and snow. These gutters have a reputation for holding up well in almost any environment. A steel gutter will often sustain less damage from falling debris compared to gutters of another material. In addition some manufacturers now offer environmentally friendly gutter systems that are made from recycled steel at no additional cost.
Copper
Copper is one of the more durable gutter options. Copper brings a certain aesthetic to a home’s facade, appealing to property owners looking to customize their home. Copper sits at the high-end of the gutter market. If you’re interested in a copper gutter system you need to consider the “patina” aspect of copper, which gradually ages and changes color with exposure to the elements. A copper gutter system will only stay shiny for the first month or two. It’ll turn brown, dark brown, purple, and eventually a greenish color. Homeowners need to expect these changes.
*Gutter system lifespan based on general maintenance (e.g. cleaning debris out, trimming tree limbs back, and gutter guard can aid in lifespan) Improperly maintained gutter system will fail to direct water away from your home where you want it to go. Backed up and clogged gutter runs could cause roof leaks. If the runoff is pooled inside and flooding over the side that water on the ground can seep into the basement.
