5 Reasons To Choose Aluminum Gutters

Gutters are an essential component of a building’s drainage system. Various materials are used to manufacture gutters, and the choice of materials depends on many factors.

Cost, durability, aesthetic preferences, and climate affect how homeowners decide which gutters are suitable for their homes.

Can you name five of the eight common materials used in gutters?

There is PVC, vinyl, fiberglass, wood (though as common today), steel, copper, zinc, and aluminum. Did you get them all?

Read our five reasons to choose aluminum gutters, and if you’re not convinced it’s the way to go, you may want to continue exploring further insights on gutters and research suppliers near you.

Why Aluminum Gutters?

For starters, aluminum gutters are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and durable.

Also, aluminum gutters are an easy choice for homeowners as they are available in various colors, making them a versatile option for different architectural styles.  Plus there are these five reasons too.

1. Affordable, long-lasting, low maintenance

Aluminum gutters are both economical and durable. While they are not as low cost as vinyl, you can get another ten years out of aluminum. Imagine not needing to replace the gutters for up to 30 years!

Being lightweight and strong by nature not only simplifies the installation of aluminum gutters but there’s also the benefit of minimal upkeep.

The advanced coatings reduce the need for frequent cleaning or repainting, saving time and resources for property maintenance saving time and resources for property owners.

2. Stands up to the weather

In areas with heavy rainfall, aluminum gutters excel. For example, in regions like the Pacific Northwest, where annual rainfall averages around 37 inches, aluminum gutters efficiently manage water flow, preventing property damage.

Climate change has seen many areas dealing with torrential downpours and strong winds. Gutters must withstand all weather conditions, including wind, rain, snow, and sun.

For example, modern aluminum gutters often come with protective coatings that further increase their resistance to weather elements. So, these protective layers keep the gutters from losing color or getting scratched up and let them stand up better to sunlight – keeping your gutters looking fresh and working well for longer.

3. Environmentally friendly

Did you know aluminum is a recyclable material?

We’re all more aware of the need to reduce, reuse, and recycle. The production of primary aluminum from bauxite is an energy-intensive process. However, using recycled aluminum requires only about 5% of the energy needed for primary production. This energy efficiency lowers greenhouse gas emissions and reduces the demand for fossil fuels in manufacturing.

Choosing aluminum gutters is helping to boost a circular economy where we repurpose materials and cut down on our environmental impact.

Also relevant is how leveraging aluminum’s reflective traits can boost a property’s thermal efficiency.  You can reduce your energy costs as aluminum reflects heat.

4. Safety features

Aluminum gutters offer several safety features for homeowners, making them a popular choice for rainwater management.

Being lightweight and easier to handle and install, the risk of injuries during the installation process is less compared to heavier materials like steel.

Another safety feature is the low-maintenance nature of aluminum, so homeowners don’t have to engage in frequent cleaning or repairs. Did you know people falling off ladders is one of the most common accidents associated with maintenance tasks?

Aluminum is a non-combustible material, making it resistant to fire. This can be a safety benefit in areas prone to wildfires or for homeowners looking to minimize fire risks.

5. Compliance

Modern aluminum gutters are designed to meet rigorous building codes and standards to meet safety, durability, and performance requirements.
Building codes vary by region, and it’s important to consult the specific codes applicable to your location.

The areas of interest to meet building code standards include:

• The thickness and quality of aluminum
• Installation for proper function and durability
• Size and capacity to handle the volume of water
• Local climate conditions, e.g., weight of snow, corrosion, wind

Ensuring your property is up to code with modern aluminum gutters isn’t just about dodging legal headaches but keeping everything safe and sound.

To ensure compliance with building codes, working with a qualified professional familiar with the local regulations is crucial. They can assess your needs and make recommendations based on your area’s applicable building codes and standards.

Additionally, obtaining the necessary permits and inspections during installation is typically required to ensure that the work meets all relevant codes and regulations.

Last Words

Choosing aluminum gutters over other materials often comes down to a combination of factors, and the decision depends on your specific needs and preferences.

The five top reasons above should help you understand why aluminum is a good material for gutters.