Vinyl and aluminum gutters are considered to be two of the best types of gutters because they are cost-effective, meaning that, for what they cost, they do their job well. And they're not overly expensive either. Stainless steel gutters are another great option, but they come at a higher price. Offering a good balance between cost and durability, aluminum gutters are popular with homeowners for good reason.
LeafGuard brand gutters combine many of the attributes recommended by professionals, according to Lowe. Wooden gutters used to be the norm a hundred years ago, although with the advent of cheaper, mass-produced and more weather-resistant materials, this material for household gutters has mostly lost popularity. For example, since foam and weed protectors for gutters are placed completely inside the gutter, they are not visible from the floor. As mentioned before, it's essential to find the type of gutter protectors that fit the style of your home, so that they appear imperceptible from the floor.
Within that spectrum, there are a number of options to explore as you decide what type of gutters is best for you. Anyone looking for new gutters not only has to choose a material, they must also choose from a variety of shapes or profiles. The disadvantage of this type of roofing is the installation process, which is usually carried out by a subcontractor. In terms of materials, vinyl gutters are at the lower end of the price spectrum, while more durable copper gutters cost more up front.
These gutters will cost two to four times more than gutters made of lower quality materials, so be prepared to shell out a few more peanuts if you choose this route. The price range for gutter protectors includes PVC covers on the bottom and helmets with surface tension on the top. Experts note that water damage to the roof, fascia boards, roof or beams is a sure sign that gutters need to be replaced. If you add to this the fact that they hold paint well (something that vinyl gutters can't show off) and can be made in seamless models (more on this later), it's clear why many gutter owners and contractors prefer aluminum gutters for domestic use instead of any other material.
To prevent clogs and minimize gutter maintenance, gutter protectors are a popular addition during installation. Gutters are a critical component of a home's drainage system and, like many exterior features, are subject to wear and damage. Below you'll find a list of the most common rain gutter materials, as well as their advantages and disadvantages, so you can move forward with your next rain gutter purchase with confidence.