Having the right type of guttering installed on your home is an important consideration, particularly if you live in a place that goes through all four seasons. If you’re having new guttering put in, there are several things to consider, including the material it’s made of, the features it includes, and various other, more aesthetic considerations.

What Material Should it Be?

Aluminium is one of the most popular choices for guttering, as it is a very light material that doesn’t rust at all, and is available in different colours and finishes. It’s quite a durable material, as long as it doesn’t suffer any hard knocks which can cause it to become damaged – this is something to think about if you live in a windy area with many big trees around. Aluminium guttering is available in various thicknesses, and it’s best to opt for a thicker type if you live in a place that gets very cold in the winter, as thin aluminium can warp if it gets filled with heavy snow and ice.

Steel is a much heavier material than aluminium, but it’s also a lot more resistant to harsh weather, such as storms and wind, although it is possible for it to rust if it’s not finished correctly. Steel is also cheaper than aluminium and available in more colours, but you must be careful to get it rust-proofed if you live in a particularly wet area.

Vinyl is similar to aluminium in its functionality, although it’s quicker and easier to install, and easier to cut to shape. It’s also more resistant to denting, and is just as rust resistant, although it can warp in extremely high temperatures.

Copper is quite a rare choice for guttering, although it is often considered the most attractive, it is also the most expensive. Copper guttering is rust and rot resistant, and incredibly durable, although it can oxidise and so turn green if not finished correctly.

What Features Should it Have?

A Leaf Screen or Mesh is placed over the top of guttering to prevent it from becoming clogged up with leaves. However, it needs cleaning out quite often, especially in the autumn and winter, as leaves can build up quickly and prevent any water from entering the gutter.

Gutter Slots

Slots in guttering work similarly to leaf screens and mesh, but are much less likely to get clogged up. They work by having a solid, angular “roof” surface, with small slots cut into it, which allows water to enter, but causes leaves and other debris to slide off instead of getting stuck, thus making it easier to clean.

Gutter Guards

Gutter guards also prevent guttering from becoming clogged, but once again they feature a different design; A completely solid roof covers the gutter, but with a lip that curves underneath, allowing water to filter into the gutter, while debris falls away.

What Else is There to Consider?

Range of colours, shapes and styles, price, and the climate of the area you live in are all important considerations when having new guttering installed.

Attached Images:

•  License: Creative Commons image source
•  License: Creative Commons image source
•  License: Creative Commons image source

Patricia Thompson is a home improvement expert. She says that Gutters Sunshine are really good in performance and are not too expensive even.