Gutters, though necessary, can be a bit of a nuisance and an eyesore, especially if they weren’t appropriately installed originally. Whether you moved into a home that already had older gutters or you simply aren’t happy with the gutters you currently have on your newer house, the Hatch Homes team can help you fix the problem once and for all.
If you’re like a lot of homeowners, you might not even realize that there are several common materials gutters can be crafted from. Each of these has advantages and disadvantages that are largely dependent on your lifestyle and wherein the Carolinas you reside. As you continue reading this guide, you’ll learn a bit about three of these and come to understand the pros and cons of each option.
-Vinyl gutters – Vinyl gutters are the most popular among today’s homeowners. This is primarily because they are the cheapest option on the market and they require little maintenance. White is the most common color for vinyl gutters, although some manufacturers also make them in gray and various brown shades.
The primary downside to vinyl gutters is that they can get brittle and crack in very cold weather. Fortunately, most of the Carolinas have relatively mild winters, but if you happen to live in a part of the region where snow and ice are common, this is something to bear in mind.
-Aluminum gutters – Next to vinyl, aluminum is the most popular gutter material. It is about the same price as vinyl, although it can be slightly more expensive, and is known for its extreme durability. Aluminum will withstand snow and ice and even, in some cases, fallen branches or tree limbs. It also requires little maintenance.
People who live in coastal areas, such as Charleston, SC, will want to avoid aluminum gutters if they have algae-resistant shingles. These have a copper coating and, ultimately, salt fog dew on the roof will cause corrosion.
-Copper gutters – Copper gutters have several advantages, such as the fact that they are rust resistant and the fact that they generally last over one-hundred years without being replaced. They also have a unique appearance that many homeowners love. Copper gutters tend to look especially nice on Victorian-era homes, although they can be used on houses from any period.
The primary downside to copper gutters is their cost. They are about five times as expensive as the other gutter materials outlined in this brief guide. If you are interested in copper gutters, talk to your contractor about pricing and see if there any financing options available. You might decide it is worth it to pay your gutters off over time if you plan to stay in your home for many years.
The Hatch Homes team hopes to work with you on your upcoming gutter replacement project. We can help you decide which material is the best choice for your budget and needs and we will install your new gutters quickly and professionally. We’ve been serving the Carolinas for years, and we look forward to meeting you!