If you’re considering new rain gutters for your home or business, one of the first and most important choices you’ll make is the material used. Modern rain gutters are available in a wide range of materials, each of which has its own set of benefits and drawbacks depending on your precise needs.

Available Options

There are several gutter materials out there, including each of the following and their basic benefits and drawbacks:

• Aluminum: The most common gutter material is aluminum, which is light and easy to work with and also comes in several colors.
• Steel: Steel gutters are some of the heaviest and most durable products out there, requiring professional installation. They are highly rust-resistant and excellent for protection from heavy weather elements.
• Vinyl: Vinyl options are popular due to their affordability and ease of installation, but they may not have the shelf-life of other top materials.
• Copper or zinc: These products are primarily used for those who want the style of their gutters to stand out – they’re a bit pricier usually, but are beautiful and can improve home curb appeal.

Compare Up-Front Costs to Long-Term Costs

So how do you choose between the styles we listed above. The name of the game is not only considering the costs you incur now, but also the money you might save or lose down the line based on the materials you choose.

For instance, a product like vinyl or aluminum will be your cheapest option – the former in particular. These are lightweight and easily manageable options that are great for renovations, but know that they may not last as long. Vinyl gutters in particular are prone to cracking or color fading in severe cold, meaning that while you spend less now, you may have larger expenses years down the line when you’re forced to replace earlier than usual. If long-term viability is your primary concern, consider steel or other options as well.

Aesthetic Considerations

For some homeowners, a priority when it comes to gutters is aesthetic appeal. In these cases, copper is the way to go – it provides a beautiful appearance that even ages over time, beginning as a burnished copper look but eventually evolving and developing a patina. Many historic or higher-end homes use copper rain gutters.

Now, some other homeowners may want gutters that more directly match the home. In these cases, steel or aluminum gutters are the way to go – they come in many different colors, and aluminum options can even be painted for matching if you desire. For more on picking the right rain gutter material, or to learn about any of our rain gutter installation or repair services, contact the pros at Wizard Rain Gutters today.