Types of Gutters: Your Guide to Selecting New Rain Gutters

Kim Hanke • Apr 25, 2023

Which Type of Rain Gutter Offers the Best Value?

Rain gutters might not be the most exciting home improvement topic, but they're one of the most important. Gutters play a crucial role in your home's integrity and structure. Without properly installed gutters, your home's foundation, roof, and walls could be in serious trouble when the next downpour hits. 


If you're in the
market for new rain gutters, this guide will help you make the best decision for your home! Let’s dive into our crash course in rain gutters.


Vinyl Gutters


    Pros:

  • Affordability: Vinyl gutters are the most affordable option on the market. They're a great option if you're on a tight budget.
  • Rust-resistant: Vinyl rain gutters are made of plastic, making them rust-resistant. You don't have to worry about them corroding over time.
  • Variety of colors: Vinyl gutters come in a range of colors, so you can choose the one that best matches your home's exterior and your overall design aesthetic.


    Cons:

  • Durability: Vinyl gutters aren't very durable. What you might save in cost, you’ll lose in durability. They can crack in extreme temperatures, become brittle over time, and may not withstand heavy rainfall or strong winds.
  • Limited lifespan: Vinyl gutters have a shorter lifespan compared to other materials. They usually last 10 to 20 years, depending on how well they're maintained.
  • Not eco-friendly: Vinyl rain gutters aren't eco-friendly, since they're made of plastic, which isn’t biodegradable.


Aluminum Gutters


     Pros:

  • Durability: Aluminum gutters are more durable than vinyl gutters. They can withstand harsh weather conditions and are less likely to crack or become brittle.
  • Low-maintenance: Aluminum gutters don’t require a ton of upkeep. They don't rust and only require occasional cleaning to remove debris.
  • Variety of colors: Aluminum rain gutters come in various colors, so you can choose the one that best matches your home's exterior.


    Cons:

  • Dents easily: Aluminum gutters can dent easily, affecting their appearance and performance.
  • Strength: Aluminum rain gutters are not as strong as steel gutters, which means they're more likely to warp or bend under heavy loads.
  • More expensive than vinyl: Aluminum gutters are more expensive than vinyl gutters, but still a relatively affordable option.


Steel Gutters


    Pros:

  • Durability: Steel rain gutters are the most durable option on the market. They can withstand extreme weather conditions and are less likely to warp, bend, or dent.
  • Fire-resistant: Steel gutters are fire-resistant, which makes them ideal for homes located in areas prone to wildfires or scorching temperatures.
  • Long lifespan: Steel gutters have a longer lifespan compared to other materials. With proper maintenance, they can last for 20 to 30 years.


    Cons:

  • Prone to rust: Steel gutters are prone to rust, requiring regular maintenance to prevent rust and ensure longevity.
  • Heavy: Steel rain gutters are heavier than other materials, making them more challenging to handle and install.
  • More expensive: Steel gutters are more expensive than vinyl and aluminum gutters, but still a great option if you're looking for a durable and long-lasting option.



Copper Gutters


    Pros:

  • Aesthetic: Copper gutters enhance curb appeal and add a touch of elegance to any home. They develop a patina over time, which adds to their aesthetic appeal.
  • Durability: Copper rain gutters are highly durable and can last decades with proper maintenance.
  • Longevity: Copper gutters have a longer lifespan compared to other materials, making them a great investment in the long term.


    Cons:

  • Expensive: Copper rain gutters are the most expensive option on the market. They're a great option if you have the budget, but they may only be feasible for some.
  • Oxidation: Copper gutters will naturally oxidize over time, which may not be desirable for some homeowners who prefer a consistent look.
  • Patina development: Some may consider the patina development of copper gutters a pro, but others may see it as a con. It can take time for the desired patina to develop, and the patina may develop unevenly.



Which Type of Rain Gutter Offers the Best Value?

When selecting rain gutters for your home, it's important to consider the long-term value of your investment. While some materials may be cheaper upfront, they may require more maintenance or replacement in the future, ultimately costing you more in the long run. On the other hand, more expensive materials may offer greater durability and require less maintenance, making them a better value over time.


Ultimately, the best value for your home will depend on your budget and priorities. Consider the climate in your area, the aesthetic appeal you're looking for, and the long-term costs and benefits of each material when making your decision.



Leave it to the Pros

Picture this: you're standing outside your home gazing up at the eaves, and you think to yourself, "I can totally install rain gutters myself. How difficult can it be?" But the answer may be harder than you might think.


Even with tools and tutorials at your disposal, rain gutter installation is a job that requires experience, expertise, and the right equipment. That's where the professionals come in.


Professional rain gutter installers, like Hanke Brothers, have been around the block (or should we say, around the roof) a few times. We've seen it all, from shoddy DIY installations to gutters that have been neglected for years. Professionals know how to install gutters properly, ensuring your home is protected from
rainwater damage. They also have all the right tools and equipment to get the job done safely and efficiently with high-quality materials and seamless gutter machines to create custom gutters that fit your home perfectly. 


In addition, Hanke Brothers offers a
warranty on our work to give you peace of mind for the future.If something goes wrong with your gutters, you can rest assured that our team will fix the problem at no extra cost. That's peace of mind that you can't put a price on.



K-Guard Gutters: The Quality Choice for your Home

When selecting the best rain gutter system for your home, Hanke Brothers stands by their commitment to quality and durability, which is why we install the K-Guard system. This system combines the benefits of a gutter guard and a seamless gutter system into one exceptional product. 


We believe the K-Guard system is the ultimate gutter choice because of its durability, low maintenance requirements, and effectiveness in protecting your home from rainwater damage. The K-Guard system is made from high-quality materials, ensuring your gutter treatment will last for years. Its seamless design also reduces the need for frequent cleaning, making it a low-maintenance option for homeowners.


In addition to its effectiveness in protecting your home, the K-Guard system also adds aesthetic value. K-Guard gutters are available in a variety of colors and finishes for every design preference and options that best match your home's exterior.

Hanke Brothers is here to help you select and install the best rain gutters for your home, ensuring that they're installed correctly and allowing you to be confident in your gutters for years to come.
Contact us today to get a quote on your gutter installation project!


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