Home Maintenance

Rain Gutters: How to Make the Right Choice

The importance of having fully functional and appropriate rain gutters Rain Gutters: How to Make the Right Choice - ToolBox Divasmust not be underestimated, particularly if you’re living in an area which gets a lot of rain or snow. All the runoff from your roof needs to be safely and quickly diverted, so that it doesn’t create a substantial damage to your roof and home.

So, next time you’re supposed to install or replace your rain gutters, there are several things you need to know inorder to make an informed decision. You need to be aware of the available options, their advantages and disadvantages, particularly in terms of material, maintenance and price. Here are some of the most popular choices you should know about:Rain Gutters Buying Guide - Toolbox Divas

Vinyl Gutters

These gutters are simple and inexpensive to install, and they don’t rust or corrode. Another advantage is that they are quite lightweight, which means they are relatively easy to support. None of this is a problem. On the contrary, it is very convenient for homes in regions with a mild climate and especially for people on a shoestring budget.

However, if you happen to be living in an area with extremely low temperatures in the winter, these gutters might not be the best solution for you, since they are known for growing brittle and cracking in such weather conditions.

Aluminium Gutters

Another relatively affordable option is to have aluminium gutters installed. They are also pretty lightweight and won’t rust, but unlike vinyl gutters, they behave well in harsh weather conditions and hold paint well. Moreover, they can be produced as seamless models, which is another reason why they are so popular among many homeowners.

Naturally, such structures are not as strong as we might wish, and may dent or even break easily, especially if not properly installed. There is a way to prevent this and that’s to have gutters made of primary aluminium, which is thicker and of better quality than those made of mostly recycled materials. However, this option is also heftier.

Steel Gutters

This option also offers a wide range of varieties, including the widely popular galvanized steel rain gutters. These provide a great value for money since they are not so expensive, but are quite sturdy and not so susceptible to damage caused by falling branches, for example.

Naturally, they too have disadvantages. First and foremost, they rust, which means that no matter what you do to protect them, they will eventually rust. However, proper maintenance can see them last long enough to pay off the investment of both your money and time.

Stainless Steel

If you’re looking for gutters which are strong, rust-resistant and reliable, look no further. That is, if you can afford them, since they are more expensive than other options discussed so far. Copper gutters are similar to stainless steel and equally reliable and pricey.

Wood Gutters

Wood is probably not the first material you think of when it comes to rain gutters, but it might be an option if you’re restoring an old, historic house and you want or have to stay true to the original building materials. In that case, you can choose cedar, redwood or fir and your preferred material. Needless to say, this option is the most expensive and the trickiest to install.

Sectional vs. Seamless

Finally, a distinction that has little to do with material, but much more with the installation. Usually, there are sections that are joined and fastened together. Aluminium gutters also come in seamless varieties, and certain professionals, such as the guys who own and operate Sydney Wide Metal Roofing, can even custom-make them to fit your home as a single piece of metal. The reason why many people are turning to this option is because many gutters fail at the joints and seams first. By eliminating this weak link, the chain is made much stronger. It does come at a slightly higher cost, but the investment is justifiable, particularly in the long run.

Although you might be picky when it comes to selecting your new rain gutters, it is important to have all the required information before choosing the right type, as well as to have an expert come and advise you on every aspect. This matter must not be taken lightly since the consequences may cost you much more than the money you think you’ve saved.

 

Article written by Lillian Connors. If one thing is true about Lillian Connors, her mind is utterly curious. That’s why she can’t resist the urge to embark on a myriad of home improvement projects and spread the word about them. As the Co-Editor at SmoothDecorator, she cherishes the notion that sustainable housing and gardening will not only make us far less dependent on others regarding the dwellings we inhabit and what we eat, but also contribute to our planet being a better place to live on. You can check her out on Twitter and LinkedIn.

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