Life span is one of the key considerations when planning on getting new gutters. While more durable gutters tend to have a higher upfront cost, they can actually be more cost-effective in the long run. In today’s post, Howard Roofing & Home Improvements takes a look at the typical life spans of different gutter systems, and how you can get more years out of them.
Gutter life spans can vary depending on the material they’re made of. You’re probably most familiar with galvanized steel gutters, which can be considered the median with an average life span of 15 to 20 years. Vinyl gutters are the most affordable, but have a shorter life span at 10 to 15 years. Stainless steel and zinc gutters are among the more durable at 50 years, while the outlier is copper gutters at an impressive 100-year average.
In addition to the inherent durability of the base material, their resistance to corrosion and wear from exposure to the elements play an important factor. Stainless steel and zinc are more resistant to corrosion than galvanized steel, therefore, they don’t deteriorate as fast. Copper even forms a layer of green patina that protects it from corrosion and makes it look even more beautiful.
Workmanship, which includes the build and installation, can also affect the gutters’ long-term performance. Even when made with the best materials, gutters are more likely to fail if poorly-made and/or improperly-installed. Also, consider the number of seams and joints: the fewer there are, the lower the chances of failure. This is why seamless gutters perform better than standard segmented gutters.
As a homeowner, there are a few things that you can do that can help extend your gutters’ life span:
Planning on getting new gutters this season? Contact Howard Roofing & Home Improvements at (636) 296-1057 to get started. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve St. Louis, MO, and the surrounding communities.