While gutters provide vital protection from flooding foundations and landscaping, homeowners rarely spare them much thought. If you want a long-lasting, attractive gutter system, it’s vital that you take some time to think about what type of gutters would be ideal for your property. The right materials and gutter shape will be able to handle the amount of rainfall and snow you get each year, while still contributing to your home's curb appeal.

Choosing the Right Gutter Materials

Gutters are available in a surprising selection of materials, from vinyl to wood. Each offers its own benefits for the average home. Let’s take a look at the popular options:

  • Vinyl Gutters: People who live in a mild climate or one with little rain may prefer vinyl gutters. Unfortunately, vinyl can bend and snap in cold weather.
  • Aluminum Gutters: Lightweight, cold-resistant aluminum gutters are perhaps the most popular option these days. However, aluminum is a thinner metal that can deform when clogged or filled with ice.
  • Steel Gutters: Stainless steel gutters are very strong and can handle heavy weight without deforming, but they are also heavy and can cost a lot more than basic aluminum gutters.
  • Copper Gutters: Commonly found on historic homes, copper gutters develop a green patina over time that many find attractive. However, this can also be an expensive option to have installed.
  • Wood Gutters: While wood isn’t what most people would think of for gutters, it was very popular over a century ago. Wood gutters last about 20 years and are a good fit for historic properties.

Round or Square Gutters: Which is Better?

The shape of your gutters can also have an impact on their longevity and performance. While there are several different styles, the core element to consider is whether your gutters are square or round.

If you are looking for a certain style to match your home’s architecture, you may be interested in round gutters. However, they don’t hold much water and can overflow in heavy rain. Square gutters tend to be deeper—allowing them to hold more water and handle high-volume water flow when necessary.

Find Out More About Our Gutter Services

As an established gutter installation company serving Central Indiana, Gutter Up is available to assist local homeowners with their projects. Whether you want to repair your gutters or install new ones, we have trained experts who work quickly and effectively. 

Give us a call or fill out our quick quote form to ask about a free consultation and estimate today.