Many varieties of gutter systems exist for homeowners. But how do you know which gutter material best fits your home? Choosing the right option can feel like a daunting task. Thankfully, systems can be broken down into categories to simplify decision-making. For savvy homeowners, involving a knowledgeable roofing professional enables an optimal gutter installation strategy to come together.
Different Types Of Gutter Materials
Aluminum Gutter
As a lightweight and rustproof rainwater system, this easy-to-install gutter effortlessly withstands temperature extremes. Because aluminum is paintable, and comes in a variety of colors, it provides substantial versatility for a homeowner seeking to customize the color of their gutters to match or complement the shade of their home.
Copper Gutter
For historical homes, copper remains an extremely popular choice. This maintenance-free gutter lasts for many decades without the need for replacement. It is also well-liked for its beauty, being shiny in the beginning before gracefully fading to turquoise-green. Copper is also more expensive than almost all other materials.
Fiberglass Gutter
Many homeowners don’t know that highly durable and exceptionally functional gutters can be forged from fiberglass. Discerning homeowners use fiberglass to replace worn wood gutters. Choosing this path provides a permanent solution to water runoff challenges that other gutter materials don’t resolve. Fiberglass can also be painted to match any style!
Steel Gutter
Galvanized steel provides extreme versatility. No matter what severe weather condition a home faces, this gutter system readily withstands heavy rain, dense snow, or damaging hail. Unfortunately, over time, steel can rust meaningfully. This alternative also costs significantly more than other materials and it can weigh down a house lacking sufficient structural stability.
Vinyl Gutter
Today, vinyl is the most affordable and readily available option. This corrosion-resistant rainwater system is lightweight and causes minimal stress on the home. Unfortunately, vinyl may crack if the homeowner resides in a cold region. Also, vinyl is subject to fading if constantly exposed to sunlight.
Wood Gutter
The homeowner who has a historic home should consider wood. This material offers a luxurious aesthetic. However, it also requires frequent maintenance, including repainting and the application of a water-resistant oil. Otherwise, this gutter will rot rapidly and require replacement relatively quickly.
Zinc Gutter
For the homeowner seeking an extremely sturdy and weatherproof gutter, zinc is robust and highly corrosion-resistant. This rainwater system can last a lifetime and is recyclable at the end of its lifecycle. The homeowner will also appreciate zinc’s antifungal nature, preventing fungus and mold growth.
Common Gutter Styles
Box-Style Gutter
Primarily used in commercial settings to manage large volumes of water runoff, this option can also work in specific residential scenarios needing a solution to handle significant amounts of water. Because box-style gutters are not hung on the roof’s edge, they must be installed when constructing the home.
Custom Fascia Gutter
Affixed directly to the fascia boards, this rainwater system is a customized solution for homeowners who do not want an ‘off-the-shelf’ gutter. Consequently, the home achieves a contemporary or modern appearance unmatched by other gutter styles. Only involve an experienced roofer to install this alternative.
Half-Round Gutter
Considered the most efficient shape for a rainwater system, this popular style offers elegance, especially to historic or rustic homes. Most manufacturers forge half-round gutters out of copper. But they also come in aluminum, steel, or vinyl. Installation requires an expert trained in securing this style.
K-Style Gutter
Four out of five homes with gutter systems use this style. With a design to complement a modern home’s overall aesthetic, this alternative comes in different colors and materials to match or accent the trim or shutters. Installation is easy. The contractor merely attaches a K-style gutter to the fascia board.
Gutter Design Options
Sectional Gutter
This alternative comprises sections (typically ten feet in length) joined together. The main concern with sectional gutters is that joints tend to loosen over time as expansion and contraction occur.
Seamless Gutter
As the most common choice on the market, seamless gutters come in a long roll. Installers custom-fit them to the home. Compared to sectional gutters, this option typically provides affordability.
Which Gutter Material Is Best For You
Choosing the right gutter requires doing your homework. Many attractive options exist. But some of them will not be a good fit – even if you prefer a particular system. Questions of affordability, functionality, and stylistic appearance need answering when deciding what gutter to select. The more reliable information you possess, the more likely you will wisely choose the ideal alternative for your home.
Hiring The Right Gutter Installer
Involving the best roofing professional for your gutter installation project demands due diligence. Before connecting with the contractor, collect critical information, including accurate home/roof measurements, your gutter preferences, and a list of problems needing attention. Once you meet, ensure you obtain a precise quote considering the time frame to complete the work and an estimated budget.
At O’LYN Roofing, we serve the roofing and gutter needs of residents throughout Cambridge, Greater Boston, and MetroWest. To schedule an appointment, contact us today.
