Choosing a new gutter system for your home sounds simple enough. And then you start to look at the shapes, styles and colors and it quickly becomes overwhelming. There are some simple rules to follow when choosing the right gutter for your home and neighborhood. Legacy Group Exteriors explains in today’s blog.
The Style
If you live in a gated community or a neighborhood with an HOA, chances are good that the type of guttering has already been specified for your home. Check with your HOA to understand what is allowed.
If you have free reign to choose whatever type of gutter you want, the best rule of thumb is to choose one that best matches the styles of your home. If your home is more elegant and stately, choosing a sleek copper design may be best. If you prefer a more minimalist style, zinc could be the answer. If you are on a tight budget, then look for steel or aluminum guttering. You want the color to complement your home, not stand out.
Regional Weather Conditions
An important key consideration when shopping for guttering is local climate and weather conditions. If you reside in a part of the country that has an extreme yearly climate like Arizona or another part that faces harsh weather conditions four months of the year like Minnesota, there are types of guttering that you should not install on your home if you want it to look good and last long. For Greater Cincinnati where we are, the Legacy Group Exteriors team will outline the best type of gutters for you.
Shapes & Materials
There are two different shapes of gutters: K-shape and half-round. K-shaped gutters offer a curved front that is more decorative. This is a consideration when determining the overall look you want that will complement the rest of the home. Half-round gutters are found on many older homes and commercial buildings. As the name suggests, they are half round and less decorative.
Like any product, gutters have gone through an evolution process as manufacturers work to create better options with higher durability, longer life span and more aesthetic appearances. Gutters are made out of five basic materials, ranging from inexpensive to pricey.
Aluminum. This lightweight material is the most commonly used gutter because of its ease to handle and install. This is also the least expensive.
Seamless Aluminum. One common complaint about gutters is leaking at the seams. As gutters age and take a beating from the elements and debris, they can often fail at the seams. Seamless guttering is often custom-made for the home or building and can cost more than aluminum.
Steel. These heavy-duty gutter systems are sturdy, but they are prone to rust. If you live in a region that gets alot of moisture year-round, steel may not be the best option for you.
Zinc. While this can be the most expensive option, it does offer a long lifespan. Each seam is hand-welded, creating a greater durability. Zinc gutters are elegant and can add a stately look to your home.
Vinyl. Like aluminum guttering, vinyl is lightweight, affordable and easy to install. However, if you live in areas with extreme weather conditions like high temperatures and sun or frigid temperatures and snow, vinyl guttering may not be the best choice. It can crack in severe weather conditions and fade after extended exposure to UV rays.
If you’re still unsure as to which guttering to choose, contact a home exterior professional. They will be able to assist in finding siding that fits your needs and your budget.
Gutters From Legacy Group Exteriors
If you’re looking for a trusted partner for your next home project, call the professionals at Legacy Group Exteriors, Inc. We are a family-owned company that never builds anything we wouldn’t want to live in and show off ourselves. If you have questions about construction services for residential, municipal, commercial or government buildings, contact us today. Our team will install beautiful gutters for your building.