What are the different types of
gutters?
Copper. Old houses often have these with their lovely
green patina. The need for maintenance is almost nonexistent, because copper
won't rust or need repainting, but the cost of installing them new is
daunting.
Wood. These are common on old houses, but
rarely used today. While more functional than you might think, they can be
expensive and require frequent maintenance. If your house is a historic
structure, you may have to consider
these.
Stainless steel. Sturdy and
maintenance-free, stainless steel is an attractive option, except for one thing:
it's one of the most expensive types of gutters
available.
Aluminum. One of the most popular types of
gutters, aluminum will not rust, and it's one of the less-expensive
alternatives.
Vinyl. Vinyl is less expensive than
aluminum, but there's a reason for that. Vinyl can become brittle in cold
climates or over the years, and it's not nearly as sturdy as metal gutters,
making it more likely you'll have to replace
it.
Galvanized steel. The least expensive and the most
durable alternative, galvanized steel is sturdier than aluminum or vinyl, but it
eventually will rust, requiring replacement.
Be aware of two
things that effect the cost of gutters, Thickness of material and whether
they are sectional or seamless. As thickness increases, so does the price.
Seamless gutters harder to install , but are less prone to leaking,
.
Here are some potential problems resulting from
neglected gutters:
- Roof leaks
- Damaged windows and doors. .
- Stained and rotted siding from moisture intrusion.
Keep your gutters clean to avoid water
problems, including a leaky basement. Debris often collects around the
downspout. Start cleaning there and work your way back. A thorough cleaning
twice a year is recommended, but cleaning in late autumn after the trees have
shed their leaves is virtually mandatory. Cleaning gutters involves standing on
a ladder. You should definitely hire a professional, it’s the safer alternative
and he'll use a high-pressure cleaning tool that does a much better
job.
