If you’re like most home owners, the topic of gutters is probably the furthest thing from your mind. Yet, without the proper material, installation and maintenance, gutters can cause all kinds of problems for you, including costly leaks and other damage to your home. You want to make sure that the gutters you have installed are of good quality, are installed properly and are cleaned on a regular basis. Below, an experienced Nashville roofing professional shares some helpful information about choosing the right gutters for your home.

Types of Gutters

Similar to other external fixtures for your home, gutters come in many different materials and styles. Determining which one Nashville Guiterswould be right for your home depends on a number of factors, such as price, maintenance, climate and cosmetic appeal. The five basic types of gutters are as follows:

Aluminum – The durability and affordability of this type of gutter make it one of the more popular choices among home owners. The downside to aluminum gutters, however, is that they require a great deal of maintenance and upkeep.

Vinyl – Another popular choice, vinyl gutters are lightweight and require very little maintenance. They also come in a variety of colors, making them a great choice for those who care about the cosmetic appearance of their gutters. Unfortunately, this material is not extremely durable and can crack under extreme temperatures.

Stainless Steel – If durability and low-maintenance are your top priorities, stainless steel gutters are a great choice. They come at a much higher price, however, than other types of gutters so make sure it’s in your budget.

Copper – Copper gutters are often used to maintain the look of older homes. While the material offers durability and a nice look, over time it has the tendency to discolor and turn brown or green. Sealants can be used to maintain the copper color, but such maintenance requires a lot of time and money.

Wood – Another material that is primarily used to restore the look of older properties, wood is among the least used type of gutter. This is because although it provides great curb appeal, it’s very expensive and difficult to maintain.

Installation of Gutters

Gutters can most certainly be installed by the homeowner, but it’s no simple task. DIY gutters typically come in sections which must be precisely cut to size and properly fitted. The downside to these types of gutters are that the seams where each section is attached can eventually leak, causing more headaches down the road. Seamless gutters, on the other hand, provide an alternative to this; however, they must be installed by a qualified contractor or professional roofer.

Choosing the right type of gutters for your home is no easy decision. You must consider many factors, such as what your budget will allow, the climate in your area, and how much time and effort you’re willing to put in to maintaining the gutter system once it’s installed. Your best bet is to sit down with a local roofing specialist who can go over your options, answer your questions and help you make the most informed decision.