A well functioning gutter system is an essential component to protecting your home from water damage by redirecting rainwater off your roof, away from your fascia, windows, siding, foundation, and even landscaping. Installing gutters helps prevent water damage to your property and increases your curb appeal.

Gutter Material

Homeowners have a few options available when it comes to buying new gutters as they come in a variety of materials that each have their own pros and cons.

Vinyl Gutters

Vinyl gutters are rarely used and the only time you might see them on a home is typically when someone does their own gutters, which we do not recommend. Vinyl gutters are lightweight, easy to maintain, come in a wide variety of colors, and are the cheapest option for a gutter system. They can be purchased at your Home Depot, Lowe’s, or your home improvement store.

Vinyl gutters also have the shortest life span because they are sectional, which means they often leak and cause more problems than they solve. They also break down over time due excessive exposure from the sun. Our recommendation is to stay away from vinyl gutters if you want a long lasting gutter system for your home.

Aluminum Gutters

Aluminum K-style gutters are the most popular option for homeowners in Texas. They come in a variety of colors ranging from white to black and everything in between, they are very durable and a cost-effective option for a gutter system.

The entire purpose of your home’s gutter system is to displace runoff water and debris away from your home during a storm. Aluminum gutters are seamless meaning there are no seams or joints for potential leaks and all are custom made for your home.

Steel Gutters

Steel gutters tend to be the best solution for homeowners who live in areas with harsh weather conditions as they are durable and long-lasting. These gutters do require maintenance and care since they can easily rust and tend to be a more expensive option than other gutter systems.

Copper Gutters

Copper gutters are the most elegant and prestigious choice for a rain gutter system for your home. Not only do they add a truly dramatic look to your home, but they are a good long-term investment that can provide years of reliable performance and aesthetic beauty. From classical half-round and box designs to K-style options that offer more coverage, there is a style of copper gutter that will fit any home.

Copper rain gutters are more expensive than aluminum or steel rain gutters due to the superior quality and associated material costs. Although the initial costs may appear high, their durability means you will never have to replace your gutters as you would with traditional ones.

Gutter Size

Choosing the right size for your gutters is one of the most important factors to consider. Both your gutters and downspouts need to be big enough to accommodate the amount of rain coming off your roof and into the gutter system. If you don’t have the right size gutter on your home, they can overflow and cause damage to your home.

Gutter System Type

There are two types of gutter systems to choose from – a traditional gutter system and a seamless gutter system. Traditional gutter systems can last close to 20 years if they are properly maintained. Seamless gutter systems are a good option for homeowners who want to more easily keep birds, pests, and leaves out of their gutters. Gutter screens can be used on traditional gutters to accomplish the same results and both gutter systems come in a variety to different colors to match your home’s look.

Gutter Pitch

In order for gutters to drain properly, the slope, or pitch of your gutters needs to be correct. A steeper slope is ideal because it will move the flow of water and help keep debris away from your home.

Local Gutter Regulations

We have worked with some homeowners associations that have gutter regulations  so it’s important to check with your first (if you have one) to ensure they are met. Otherwise, you’ll wind up spending more money have to meet these regulations later.

Curb Appeal

Many homeowners don’t realize that gutters actually enhance the curb appeal of a home. When selecting your gutters, be sure to choose ones that not only function properly to protect your home, but also compliment the siding and roof aesthetically.

Consider the Maintenance

Different gutter materials require different levels of maintenance. Gutters tend to become clogged with leaves and other debris which means they need to be cleaned regularly. Having gutter screens installed can help maintain your gutters as well as keep them clean and in good working condition. If you do not have a current maintenance program for your roof and gutters, consider adding our Roof “RAMP” Repair & Maintenance Plan options for peace of mind.

Questions?

Considering whether or not to add or replace gutters on your home shouldn’t be a stressful experience. Let our team assist you by walking through ever detail you need to consider when choosing gutters for your home will meet your specific needs and requirements since every home is different. Contact us for a free consultation and let us give your project the skill, attention, and expertise it and you deserve. Experience the Affluent Way!