Gutters are unsung heroes. Day in and day out, they quietly do their work. A gutter system has one job – water management – and it keeps your home and property protected from rain damage. However, these systems don’t last forever. Today, we’re going to discuss the lifecycle of gutters, as well as ways to extend the life of your gutters.
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How Long Do Gutters Last?
Gutters typically last anywhere from 10-70 years depending on the type of material used as well as factors such as the quality of installation, climate, and regularity of maintenance.
Longevity of Gutters by Material
Let’s take a look at the top 5 most popular gutter types to get a better understanding of the typical lifespan.
Aluminum Gutters
First, on our list, we have aluminum gutters. This material is arguably the most popular for gutters. Along with being durable yet lightweight, aluminum gutters are relatively affordable and come in a variety of colors to complement your home’s aesthetic.
Less expensive than other materials (and a bit more than vinyl variants), aluminum provides a nice balance of affordability and performance. However, it’s still prone to issues as this is a fairly soft material. Routine inspection and maintenance is definitely recommended.
How Long Do Aluminum Gutters Last?
An aluminum gutter system typically lasts for 20 years. This is with the assumption they don’t sustain major dents or damage over their lifetime. When looking at aluminum downspouts, however, these components can last anywhere from 30 to 50 years.
Copper Gutters
Copper is a gorgeous and highly durable material for rain gutters. This elegant, high-end option lends a touch of class to any home. It’s also rust-resistant, so you can enjoy many years of trouble-free performance (granted you also keep up with periodic maintenance).
Though this highly prized gutter material offers a ton of appealing benefits, it still has its downsides. For one, the price tag is hefty. It’s also not DIY-friendly, so you’ll need to enlist the services of a professional copper gutter installer for proper installation.
How Long Do Copper Gutters Last?
Copper gutter sections usually last at least 50 years, while downspouts double that at 100 years! Copper gutters are at the top of the list when it comes to longevity. As you can see, copper gutters are both beautiful and long-lasting. Just be prepared for the premium cost.
Galvanized Steel
Next on our list are galvanized steel gutters. Covered in a protective zinc coating, this material is highly durable. Combining the strength of steel and rust resistance of zinc, this is a great option for those looking for a nice balance of price and performance.
Galvanized gutters are more expensive than vinyl and aluminum, but for many people, the benefits outweigh the cost. For instance, you have the option to go with either a sectional or seamless system. Also, compared to aluminum, galvanized material is much less prone to dents.
How Long Do Galvanized Steel Gutters Last?
When installed properly, galvanized steel gutters can last for approximately 20 years. That’s right up there with aluminum, but with the added benefit of higher durability. Of course, this lifecycle is an estimate, and it’s dictated by factors like installation and maintenance.
Stainless Steel
Another premium material, stainless steel is coveted for its trifecta of properties: its shiny looks, outstanding strength, and longevity. Virtually indestructible, you don’t have to worry about rust issues. A stainless steel gutter system is low maintenance.
Drawbacks? This material is expensive – sometimes 2 or 3 times more costly than other options. It’s also usually limited in availability (including color options) and extremely heavy, which can complicate the installation process.
How Long Do Stainless Steel Gutters Last?
Stainless steel gutters last between 50-70 years. Stainless is a champ when it comes to lifespan. With proper installation and care, this type of gutter system can provide 50 to 70 years of stellar performance. If you’re okay with the higher cost, this is a fantastic pick that will provide decades of good looks and performance.
Vinyl Gutters
Last but not least, let’s take a look at vinyl gutters. As the cheapest option, vinyl is good for those on a budget. It’s cheap, lightweight, and easy to install. This kind of gutter also comes in a wide variety of colors, as well as being rustproof and dent-resistant.
Vinyl gutters work well in areas that don’t have severe weather. However, if you live in a region with an extreme climate, you might want to look at another option. All in all, a vinyl gutter system will provide many years of trouble-free use if properly maintained.
How Long Do Vinyl Gutters Last?
Vinyl gutters typically last for 10 to 20 years. This is highly dependent on the weather. We suggest you research exactly which type of material works best for your area’s climate and so on. This will ensure the right fit for your budget and gutter needs.
How to Extend Life of Gutters
Wondering how to maximize the lifespan of your chose gutter system? Here are a few tips:
1. Ensure Proper Installation
First, you want to have your gutter system installed correctly. Regardless of the material, this is the foundational step to ensuring maximum longevity. So be sure to hire a contractor that is both highly qualified and can provide solid references and reviews.
2. Schedule Routine Cleaning
Along with improper installation, lack of maintenance is the biggest culprit when it comes to gutter longevity. You’ll want to perform routine cleaning, for instance, at least once or twice a year. This mainly involves removing debris from gutter sections and other components.
3. Consider Additional Components
There are a few additional components that can help, especially in an area with inclement weather or four seasons. Gutter splash guards, for example, can help keep water from overflowing. Gutter screens can reduce the amount of debris trapped in gutters, and heated gutter cables can keep your system from icing up during cold winter months.
4. Watch for Warning Signs
You’ll also want to keep an eye out for these common warning signs:
- Rust spots, holes, and cracks
- Loosened or broken fasteners
- Separated gutter joints
- Gutters pulling away from the house
- Sagging gutters
- Improperly pitched gutter sections
- Basement flooding
- Eroding yard or landscaping
- Peeling of exterior paint
- Pooling water or dirt channels
5. Address Repairs Quickly
There are several ways to address the above issues. These include everything from simply tightening fasteners or spikes to replacing gutter sections. The most important thing to keep in mind is not to wait until it gets worse. If left unaddressed, a minor fix that you could do yourself can lead to costly repairs or even the full replacement of your gutter system.
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With this knowledge, you should now have a much better understanding of your gutter system’s longevity and how to preserve it. Remember, once it’s installed, you shouldn’t stop there. Routine inspection and maintenance go a long way in protecting your investment.
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Ready to hire a highly qualified gutter contractor? Get your free quotes today!
