Table of Contents
Gutters are the channels that carry rainwater away from your home or building, protecting your roof from standing water and the development of leaking and rot issues. They divert precipitation safely out and away from the structure, to protect the foundation and underlying landscaping. When gutters are worn out, failing, or plugged full of dirt, leaves, and other debris, it is a perfect storm. Your home will no longer be protected from water damage, rot, pest infestation, and serious structural damage. With so much on the line, it is imperative that you choose the right gutters to protect your home. Thus, bringing us to the million-dollar question, aluminum vs copper gutters: Which one is better?
Pros and Cons
The aluminum versus copper debate has been going on for years now. Both materials have their pros and cons but ultimately, you need to decide what’s best for your needs. Here we will discuss some of the benefits and drawbacks of both types of gutters.
Advantages of Aluminum Gutters
Durability
One of the biggest advantages of aluminum gutters over copper ones is durability. Unlike copper gutters, they don’t corrode easily. This means that if you live in an area with high humidity levels, then aluminum gutters won’t rust as quickly. Also, unlike copper gutters, aluminum doesn’t conduct electricity very well. So, this makes them ideal for areas where there might be power lines nearby.
Low Maintenance
Another advantage of using aluminum gutters is low maintenance. Since these gutters aren’t prone to corrosion like copper gutters, they require less cleaning than those made out of metal. You only need to clean them once every few months depending upon the amount of precipitation, tree placement, and other similar considerations.
Cost-Effective
When compared to copper gutters, aluminum gutters cost much less. In fact, when purchasing new aluminum gutters, you may find yourself paying half the price of copper gutters. That said, however, you do get what you pay for. While aluminum gutters last longer, they tend to look cheap because of their thin profile. On top of that, they lack the aesthetic appeal of copper gutters.
Easy Installation
Installing aluminum gutters is a relatively simple process. Thus, hiring a professional company to install your gutters will come at an affordable price. If you are handy, you may even be able to pull off a successful DIY installation. It is generally as simple as cutting off the old gutter and installing the new one, taking mere minutes to complete. For people who hate construction noise, dirt, and extended projects, an efficient installation process is a huge bonus.
Weather Resistance
Another benefit of choosing aluminum gutters is weather resistance. These gutters are resistant to extreme temperatures ranging between 0°F and 140°F. And since they are not affected by rain, snow, sleet, hail, etc., they remain functional even during inclement weather conditions.
Disadvantages of Aluminum Gutters
While aluminum gutters offer several advantages over copper gutters, they come with certain disadvantages as well. Some of these include:
Weight
Compared to copper gutters, aluminum gutters weigh significantly more. Because of this, they are harder to move around especially if you plan to replace multiple sections of your existing gutter system.
Noise Level
Although aluminum gutters are quieter than copper gutters, they still make noise whenever they are impacted by an object or person. Thus, when nature like branches, rocks, and debris, collide with your gutters, you may experience quite a racket. As such, homeowners should avoid placing aluminum gutters in places where animals or children play.
Appearance
Unlike copper gutters which have a beautiful appearance, aluminum gutters can appear quite plain. They also don’t blend into any landscape design scheme easily. However, some manufacturers now produce aluminum gutters that feature attractive designs.
Why are Gutters so Important Anyway?
It is important to recognize that gutters perform a much more important purpose than mere aesthetics. A properly installed gutter will keep your house dry during storms by diverting excess water off your roof. Gutters may seem overly simplistic but there are many things that could go wrong with your gutters if they are not installed correctly. If you have any doubts about how well-installed your gutters are, call the professionals to conduct an inspection and identify any problem areas before they cause serious issues that may lead to deterioration and thousands of dollars in repairs.
How to Choose the Right Type of Gutters for Your Home?
The answer to this question depends on your individual situation. It all boils down to whether you prefer aesthetics or functionality. Do you value looks above everything else? Or would you rather spend less money and receive better performance from your gutters?
The gutters on your home are an important part of the overall look and feel of a house, but they also play a vital role in keeping water from entering your home through the roof line. The type of gutter you choose will depend upon several factors including how much rain falls where you live, what kind of roofing material is used for your home, and whether there’s any slope to your property.
Furthermore, if you have aluminum siding, then it may be best to use copper gutters because they can withstand higher temperatures than aluminum gutters. However, if you don’t want to spend extra money on materials that won’t last as long, then aluminum gutters might work better for you. Ultimately, the right choice is the one that best suits the climate you reside in, your style preferences, budget, and desired performance of the product. After a thorough consideration of all available information, you will be able to make the best decision for your home!
In conclusion, we hope our article has helped you understand the different types of available on the market today, so that you can make informed decisions regarding their purchase. If after considering the pros and cons of each, you are still confused as to whether aluminum or copper gutters would be the best choice for your home, don’t hesitate to reach out to a reputable gutter installation company in your area. The experts can help you weigh out what is most important to you and help your make the best decision based off their years of professional experience in the industry!
source/credit: conifergutter.com
