Gutters are made in different kinds of materials such as PVC plastic, Aluminum, Cast Iron, and Steel. However, there are several reasons why some materials are more popular than others. Let’s explore which gutter material is the most popular, cost-effective, and durable.

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Different Types of Gutters:

• PVC Plastic Gutters: This low-cost option is readily available and may save costs initially. However, Plastic Gutters tend to discolour, become brittle, and leak over time. Common colours include black, white, brown, and grey, but they can look very faded after three years, which can affect property value and overall look.

• Aluminum Gutters: Aluminum gutters are increasingly popular and are becoming the most common solution. Available in black and grey colours, and any bespoke RAL colour, Aluminum Gutters do not rust, fade, or become brittle and last about four times longer than other gutter options.

• Cast Iron Gutters: Often used on heritage properties, Cast Iron Gutters frequently rust and have issues with flaking paint, making them unsightly within a few years.

• Steel Gutters: Commonly used in commercial applications where bespoke styles are required, Steel gutters often have a commercial look with exposed rivet fixings and box-style finishes. They are ideal for high-capacity environments.

Popularity of Different Gutter Types

Aluminum is the most popular type of gutter today. Initially, gutters were made from Cast Iron due to its availability, but issues with high costs, maintenance, and rusting led to the search for better solutions.

Modern manufacturing introduced PVC gutters, which provided a cost-effective solution. However, issues with PVC gutters have persisted, and hence, aluminum became the preferred option.

Issues with PVC Gutters and Downpipes

• Fading or Discolouration
• Cracking of Gutter
• Brittle Gutter Joints & Brackets
• Leaking Gutter Connectors
• Creaking noises during natural expansion and contraction

Aluminum gutters are now the most popular due to their low cost, lightweight nature, excellent finish, and extended lifespan.

Are Aluminum Gutters Better than PVC Gutters?

Aluminum Gutters are superior to PVC Gutters because they don’t break and last much longer, saving time and money on repairs and replacements. PVC Gutters fade and become brittle, while powder-coated Aluminum Gutters maintain their look for years and are unlikely to break.

Aluminum Gutters and Downpipes are rust-resistant and lightweight, making them easier to install. They can be powder-coated to any RAL Colour to match your colour scheme.

Top 8 Advantages of Aluminum Gutters & Downpipes

1. Aluminum Gutters are 45% lower in cost over the property's lifetime.
2. PVC Gutters can easily crack or break, whereas Aluminum Gutters remain strong.
3. Aluminum Gutters don’t rust.
4. Most Aluminum Gutters are strong enough to lean ladders against for access and cleaning.
5. No fading issues with Aluminum Gutters.
6. Aluminum Gutters don’t creak like PVC.
7. Aluminum Gutters have greater strength against snow load compared to PVC Gutters.
8. Powder-coated Aluminum Gutters can be manufactured in any color.

What Colours do Aluminum Gutters come in?

Black or Anthracite Grey are the most popular colours for Aluminum Gutters, usually available for immediate delivery. However, you can get Aluminum Gutters and Downpipes in any RAL Colour to suit your project. Simply choose a RAL Colour from a RAL Colour chart and specify it when ordering.

How Long do PVC Gutters Last?

PVC Gutters last around 5 years maximum, often becoming discoloured and brittle within 3 years. This is problematic both for property aesthetics and due to the weakness and tendency of the joints and brackets to break and leak.

How Long do Aluminum Gutters Last?

Typical Aluminum Gutter Systems last for around 20 years minimum. Aluminum is an ideal material for Rainwater Gutter Systems as it doesn’t rust, rot, or become brittle like PVC systems. Aluminum Gutters are lightweight and robust, making them the perfect solution.

Is Aluminum Gutter Expensive?

Aluminum Guttering is relatively inexpensive and outlasts other types of Gutters. Considering product and labor costs over the life of the project, Aluminum Guttering is an excellent investment. As shown below, Aluminum Guttering costs slightly more upfront but lasts significantly longer than PVC Guttering, making it more cost-effective overall.

Material Cost

Labour Cost

TOTAL COST

Est. Lifespan

Typical Cost of Plastic Guttering:

250.00

150.00

400.00

5 Years

Typical Cost of Aluminum Guttering:

325.00

150.00

475.00

30 Years

Typical Cost of Cast Iron Guttering:

420.00

150.00

570.00

10 Years

Can Aluminum Gutter Rust?

No, Aluminum does not typically rust due to its natural oxidation process, which prevents corrosion. Even if scratched, aluminum will not rust, maintaining its integrity and appearance.

Do Aluminum Gutters Get Hot?

No, Aluminum is a good thermal conductor and usually disperses heat quickly, keeping the gutters and downpipes cool even in direct sunlight. Even in rare situations where the profile traps heat, Aluminum Gutters tend to stay cool.

What Styles of Gutter Are There?

• Half Round Gutter Style: This was the first gutter style made, but it lacks capacity due to its shallow depth.

• Square Gutter Style: Made for a more modern look, this style is becoming less popular due to issues with dirt build-up, leaks, and reduced flow rates.

• Deep Flow Style (Most Popular): This style enhances the benefits of the original half-round gutter with increased flow and capacity while maintaining a great look. Deep flow gutters have become the most popular choice for their simplicity and high capacity.

• Classic Gutter Style: New ornate styles are available but come with higher costs and increased leak risks, usually chosen for aesthetic preferences.

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How to Choose the Best Gutters for Your Home (2024 Guide)

By Shane Sentelle

All products and services featured are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Choosing a new gutter system for your home is not an easy decision. Several factors, including gutter material, design, and installation process, play a role. We review these factors to help you weigh your options.

Gutter Customization Options

Gutter suppliers offer several options to customize your home’s gutter system for aesthetic appeal and functionality.

Material

First, consider the gutter material before committing to a purchase. Aluminum gutters, being lightweight, are easier to install and typically last around 20 years. However, they can dent and warp from falling debris.

Other gutter materials include:

• Copper: With a striking and elegant appearance, copper is great for historic homes. It forms a patina over time due to natural oxidation, giving it a bluish hue. Copper doesn’t rust and can last over 50 years in ideal conditions.
• Galvanized steel: These zinc-coated gutters resist rust and corrosion but are heavy and difficult to install. They usually last longer than aluminum gutters.
• Vinyl: Made from PVC, vinyl gutters are cost-effective but have a shorter lifespan than aluminum and are more prone to warping due to weather changes.

Style

Common residential gutter styles include K-style and half-round gutters:

• Half-round gutters: Less common but offer a unique, rounded appearance complementing traditional homes. Although they flush out debris efficiently, they are more difficult to install.
• K-style gutters: Resembling crown molding, K-style gutters are easy to install, can hold hidden brackets for a sleek appearance, and come in many sizes, making them popular for modern homes.

Design

• Seamless gutters: Fabricated from a single sheet without seams, reducing leak risks but increasing costs.
• Sectional gutters: Made from separate pieces connected during installation, leading to seams that must be sealed to prevent leaks, requiring yearly maintenance.

Size

Gutters come in multiple widths: commonly 5-, 6-, and 7-inch. Larger gutters handle more rainfall but are costlier and often only necessary for homes with steeply pitched roofs or in areas with heavy rainfall.

What to Consider When Choosing a Gutter System

Climate

In areas with severe weather, choose larger, robust gutters to handle heavy precipitation and prevent water damage. Materials like galvanized steel or copper are more durable against rust and corrosion.

Installation Method

While modern homes look good with most gutter styles, older homes might benefit from the appearance of copper gutters and half-round designs. If in a historic neighborhood, check local zoning regulations before purchasing.

Style of Home

Modern homes are versatile with style choices, but older rustic homes might match well with copper gutters and half-round designs.

Cost

Considering the long-term costs is crucial. Aluminum gutters, although initially costlier, offer better longevity and durability, providing great value over time.

Additional Considerations

If you plan to sell your home, aesthetic choices like half-round gutters or high-end materials like copper and zinc can boost curb appeal and increase home value. Consider the warranty offered on the gutters to safeguard your investment.

Our Recommendation

Factors like material, style, size, and cost should guide your decision on the best gutter system. Consider DIY installation or hiring a professional. Regularly clean your gutters, or use gutter guards to reduce maintenance frequency. LeafFilter is a top-ranking provider offering durable, micro-mesh gutter guards to prevent clogs.

Best Gutters FAQ

Are gutters necessary for a home?

Yes, gutters prevent water from damaging your home’s siding and foundation, and help avoid structural damage, mold, and pests.

Can half-round gutters withstand heavy rainfall?

They can, but note that half-round gutters handle less water flow compared to K-style gutters of equal width.

How do I make my home’s gutter system as low-maintenance as possible?

Installing a high-quality gutter guard will reduce the debris accumulation in your gutters, making the system low-maintenance.

How We Chose the Top Gutter Guard Providers

We analyzed dozens of gutter guards and companies based on factors important to homeowners. Our rating system evaluated design, aesthetics, service offerings, customer service, quote processes, warranties, and financing options for each provider.

We considered independent site reviews such as BBB and Google My Business, and analyzed customer reviews on retailer sites for DIY products.

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