Find out what the best type of gutter is for your home or business.

Your home is an investment. Every decision you make regarding your house needs should be considered, including choosing the gutter to use.

Gutters come in many shapes, colors, and prices. There’s no one “best” gutter, but there is a best gutter for your specific situation.

With many options available for you, it may be overwhelming to pick gutters for your home. Don’t worry; we prepared a guide to help you make the right decision for your roof. 

Common Types of Gutters

There are three common shapes of gutters available today that come in 5 to 10 inches in width. The three most common gutter shapes are K-style, half-round, and box-style. 

K-style gutters have flat backs and bottoms. Often, its front side comes with decorative shapes to make your gutter look like crown molding. K-style gutters are the most common type used in homes today. They’re easy to install, durable, can handle a lot of rainwater, and improve your curb appeal.

Half-round gutters are half-circle tubes and are typically used in old homes. They have a rustic look, and they’re easier to clean as well. While they are more expensive, they’re also less likely to corrode.

Box-style gutters are the third most popular type of gutter and are usually used for commercial and industrial buildings. Box styles are designed for large roofs and more water output. They come in different sizes, from 7″ to 10″. As the name suggests, they look like long boxes.

Gutter Materials to Choose From

Gutters are typically made using one of a few materials: aluminum, copper, galvanized steel, or vinyl.

• Aluminum. Aluminum gutters are the most common material used, and they come in different thicknesses. A thin aluminum gutter is a good choice for places with no heavy rain or snow. However, if you live in an area with frequent and heavy snow, it’s better to invest in thicker aluminum gutters. They come in many different colors so it’s easy to find some that match the rest of your house. Aluminum gutters are less expensive, but they’re also prone to damage during extreme fluctuations in temperature.

• Copper. Copper gutters off a “patina” look that many homeowners like. These are strong, heavy-duty gutters. However, that strength comes at a price because their weight causes them to come loose more easily.

• Galvanized steel. These gutters are very strong so they can handle a lot of rainwater or snow. However, their strength makes them heavy, so they’ll come loose more easily. On top of that, galvanized steel rusts very easily.

• Vinyl. Vinyl is also an affordable choice that’s easy to install yourself. However, it’s not the best option if your home is in a cold area. The cold causes crack over time and may result in water pooling. Vinyl isn’t as sturdy as metal gutters are, but it also won’t rust like metal gutters do.

Gutter installation in London, KY | Kirby Contracting

Now you know which type of gutter is best for your situation. But picking out your gutters is only half the problem. Now you need to get them installed! Call us today for your free estimate. If you’re still not sure what kind of gutters would be best for your home or business, let us use our expertise to help you decide.