One of the more frequently asked questions we get are how seamless gutters differ from regular gutters. Here’s a simple breakdown of the differences, benefits, and what to consider before making the call.
Seamless vs. Sectional Gutters: Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Seamless Gutters | Sectional (Regular) Gutters |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | A single, continuous piece of metal custom-cut to your home’s dimensions. | Made from precut sections (typically 10-20 ft.) joined with couplings or connectors and then soldered together. |
| Joints | Only at corners and downspouts. Significantly fewer leak points. | Many joints, couplings, and seams along the gutter run. More prone to leaks. |
| Installation | Requires professional installation with specialized equipment. | Can be a weekend DIY project; sections are readily available at home improvement stores. |
| Cost | Higher initial cost due to materials and professional labor. Costs typically range between $9 and $25 per linear foot and can cost between $1000 and $5000, depending on the size of your house. | Lower initial cost, making it a budget-friendly option. Costs $3 to $20 per linear foot. |
| Durability | More durable and resilient. It’s not uncommon for seamless gutters to last for 30 years. | Less durable. Joints are weak points, leading to a shorter lifespan (up to 20 years). |
| Maintenance | Lower maintenance needs. Fewer joints mean less debris build-up. | Higher maintenance needs. Joints must be routinely checked and resealed. If you need to repair a regular gutter system, you only have to replace a single gutter section.Types of Regular Gutter Materials |
Types of Regular Gutter Materials
Regular gutters come in a variety of materials.
Vinyl Regular Gutters
Vinyl gutters are quickly becoming popular for their affordability. They do not rust, and require no painting to maintain their looks.
There are some downsides to Vinyl gutters. Vinyl gutters wear down in the presence of the sun. If you live anywhere like Texas and have vinyl gutters, they are breaking down now. As they brittle, the joints of vinyl gutters cause leaks potentially spreading water down into the foundation and crevices where mold can build up.
Steel Regular Gutters
In the event that you need to withstand harsh weather conditions like snow, rain, and extreme temperatures, steel is a great choice. However, it does have its drawbacks like rusting when in contact with moisture and being heavy which makes installation more difficult than other materials such as vinyl.
Copper and Aluminum Gutters
With proper care, copper and aluminum gutters can last decades with proper care. Their strong and won’t rust. Copper and aluminum gutters come in various colors allowing homeowners to match the siding of their homes.
What’s the Best Type of Rain Gutter for You Home?
Gutters are an important part of your home that can affect the value of your home and curb appeal. Seamless gutters last longer than regular ones, require less maintenance overall with their seamless design and are less likely to leak which could cause damage to your home. Lastly, while they cost more than regular gutters their benefits will out weight those of regular gutters in the long term.
For homeowners living in Amarillo get in touch with us today for seamless gutter installations. We’ll walk you through our gutter color options along with the best points to put the downspouts around your home so water doesn’t build up.