Materials Used to Make Gutters

Posted on: 20 April 2018

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Homeowners tend to overlook the importance of those outer panels that ensure rainwater drains away from the home's foundation. Indeed, guttering prevents thousands of dollars of potential damages to the home. When it rains, gutters effectively channel water a safe distance from the base of the property and into the surrounding soil.

There are many different materials used to design gutters. Each has its own unique characteristics, and being aware of the available choices can help you make smarter decisions when it comes time to repair or replace them. Common gutter materials include the following:

Aluminium

Aluminium is the new popular choice for gutters in the market. Manufacturers have been able to use the positive characteristics of aluminium to make rainwater collection more efficient.

Not only is aluminium a cost-effective option, it is also light and corrosion resistant. This means that it will not rust, even as rainwater continues to beat down on its surface. And because aluminium is easy to shape and mould into different designs, it is useful for making gutters in many different types of homes.

Copper

If your home is located in an area with inclement weather (such as strong winds and heavy precipitation), copper gutters may be the best choice for you. Copper is heavier and sturdier than aluminium, making it less likely to fall out of place as a result of damage.

Copper gutters also do not need to be painted and are essentially ready to use out of the box. Interestingly, copper tends to age over time and offer a look of authenticity that can match the décor of your home. As a result, copper gutters add aesthetic appeal as well as functionality.

Steel

Steel gutters are perhaps the strongest ones in the market. Steel tends to be coated with a protective layer of a metal alloy that makes it even more durable and resistant to breakage and rust.

Steel rivets (fasteners) are therefore much less prone to falling out of position at the point that they connect to the downspout. You may need to regularly coat your steel gutters to slow down the rate at which they rust.

Vinyl

Vinyl gutters are essentially gutters made of PVC plastic. These gutters are the most affordable options in the market, and homeowners never have to worry about corrosion. However, they do tend to be quite brittle and can break or bend out of shape over time.

You have to regularly maintain vinyl to keep it in good condition. In addition, these gutters come in a wide range of colours, shapes, designs and sizes to select from.