Rain gutters shouldnt be an afterthought.
Our guide to gutters will help you choose the right style to keep your roof in good working order.
Edmund Barr
When designing and maintaining a home, gutters might seem like an afterthought.
Credit:Edmund Barr
But they are integral to keeping water and snow away from your roof, attic, and foundation.
Although they might seem like a small part of your house, they are vital for protecting its structure.
Rain gutters come in different styles, and they can be built with a variety of materials.
Credit: Greg Scheidemann
Heres everything you should probably know to decide between the various gutter styles and materials.
They are durable and easy to install.
They can hold 20-50 times their weight in snow, ice, or rainwater.
Aluminum Gutters
Lightweight and rust-resistant, aluminum gutters can take a lot of wear and tear.
However, they have a higher risk of cracking compared to other metal gutters.
On average, aluminum gutters have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years.
DIYers find them easy to install and well worth the value.
Seamless aluminum gutters are optimal, but the preferred thickness (called gauge) varies depending on your climate.
For houses in areas that experience heavy rainfall, galvanized steel gutters are the best option.
The average lifespan of galvanized steel gutters is 20 to 30 years.
Copper Gutters
Copper is extremely durable.
Gutters made of copper will not bend or rust, even during extreme weather conditions.
Copper gutters have a beautiful shine that ages well, but they can be quite expensive.
Thats because they can last up to 60 years, which is sometimes longer than the roof itself.
They are low maintenance and rust-resistant.
Zinc has a self-sealing patina that prevents scratches or cracks.
On average, zinc gutters have a lifespan of 80 years.
Types of Gutters
Different types of gutters serve different functions.
Half-round gutters are more expensive because of the materials used to manufacture them.
They have a smooth inner surface that is easy to clean away debris and leaves.
Typically, half-round gutters are low maintenance, and they come in different sizes and widths.
K-Style Gutters
K-style gutters look like an indented cube with an open top.
They have a flat back and an angular shape, which can accent a modern facade.
They dont need brackets and accessories for an easy installation, but K-style gutters are considered high maintenance.
A gutter protection system willkeep them from getting clogged.
Most people choose 5-inch to 6-inch widths.
Because they are custom, fascia gutters require professional installation and may cost more than off-the-shelf gutter options.
They are best in regions with heavy downpours and for large roofs.
These gutters are tucked under roof shingles, usually during the building construction process.
