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If you're in the market for a gutter replacement, repair or cleaning project and need assistance in finding the best gutter services in your vicinity, CurrentExperts.com is the perfect platform to help you find the most competitive prices from top-rated gutter service providers. Our straightforward quiz will ask you a few questions about your gutter replacement project to match you with the help you need to bring your vision to life. Take the first step towards obtaining exceptional gutters and replacement services at affordable rates by ansering the easy questions above and entering your zip code on the page that follows.
When Should You Replace Your Gutter?
Identifying when to replace your rain gutters is essential in ensuring that they continue to function optimally. There are several key indicators that can alert you to the need for gutter replacement. One of the most common signs is when your gutters begin to crack due to water damage. This is particularly true for traditional and seamless gutters, which are prone to breaking at the seams when they deteriorate.
Another tell-tale sign is visible water damage or rotting materials surrounding your gutters. This indicates that your gutters are no longer functioning correctly and can manifest in the form of mildew discoloration on older vinyl or aluminum gutters.
In instances where gutters are in poor condition, we often recommend replacement rather than repair. This is because the cost of repairing severely damaged gutters can be as high as replacing them altogether. By opting for a replacement, you'll not only save money in the long run, but you'll also have gutters that function optimally for years to come.
What Materials Are Gutter Made Of?
There are a variety of gutter materials available on the market today, with most being composed of either metal or vinyl. These materials offer different benefits, styles, requirements, and costs.
Aluminium
In the past, gutters were typically made of wood, brick, or stone. However, today's most popular material is aluminum. It is low-cost, lightweight, resilient, weather-resistant, rust-proof, and can be painted. Aluminum gutters are available in seamed or seamless options, with the latter being the preferred choice for contractors during installation. While aluminum gutters are prone to denting, they are easy to maintain and can last up to 25 years with proper upkeep. On average, aluminum gutters cost around $4-$8 per linear foot and $20 per linear foot for installation.
Copper
Copper gutters are a luxurious option, known for their unique beauty, strength, and resistance to corrosion. They are highly weather-resistant, can last up to 100 years, and develop a beautiful green patina over time. Copper gutters are not suitable for DIY installation and should only be installed by a professional. The main drawback to copper gutters is their high cost, averaging between $25-$30 per linear foot for professional installation.
Steel
Steel gutters are more durable than aluminum and even more weather-resistant. They can be a compelling choice due to their resistance to damage and comparatively low cost, with prices ranging from $4-$12 per linear foot. However, they are heavy and should be installed professionally. While most steel gutters are galvanized and will resist rust, oxidization may still occur within approximately 15 years. Proper maintenance and cleaning can help to prolong their lifespan. Stainless steel gutters are the most durable but come with a higher cost.
Vinyl
Vinyl gutters are a budget-friendly and popular choice among DIY enthusiasts due to their lightweight nature, low cost, ease of installation, and corrosion-proof and paintable properties. However, they are not particularly weather-resistant or durable, and extreme temperatures can cause cracking or breakage. Vinyl gutters can last up to 20 years if maintained well and only cost around $1 per linear foot, with professional installation costing up to $5 per linear foot.
Zinc
Zinc gutters are a heavy-duty option that is durable, rust-resistant, and weather-resistant, making them a long-term investment. Zinc gutters combine the corrosion-resistant properties of aluminum with the hardy, almost indestructible nature of steel. With proper installation, these gutters can last for over 50 years and develop an attractive, rustic patina as they age. However, homeowners in coastal areas with salt-laden air or areas with acidic runoff from cedar shingles should avoid zinc gutters, as they are susceptible to staining. Zinc gutters are heavy and require professional installation, with an average cost of around $25 per linear foot.
