Comparing Vinyl vs. Aluminum Gutters
Gutter Type Comparisons in Salt Lake City Metro Area
Whether you’re upgrading the existing gutter system on your home or business, or installing gutters and downspouts during new construction, it’s important to choose the right system for your needs and budget. Aluminum gutters and vinyl gutters are two of the most popular types of gutter systems, but each has its advantages and disadvantages, so Gutters Premier is here to help with a gutter type comparison. Let’s compare vinyl and aluminum gutters in the Salt Lake City metro area.
Aluminum Gutters: Pros & Cons
Aluminum gutters are manufactured from lightweight, durable aluminum. They can be customized in different colors and sizes, and are coated with weather-resistant sealants that prevent rust and corrosion. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons:
Pros
- Lightweight and can be installed on almost any type of roofing system
- Less expensive than copper gutters
- Available as traditional or seamless gutter systems
- Available in a wide range of colors and styles that complement any architecture or aesthetic
- Durable even in cold climates
- Can handle heavy downpours and snowfall
- Easy to install and maintain
- Recyclable
Cons
- Vulnerable to denting by hail, falling branches, and other impacts
- Expands and contracts with temperature changes, which can lead to added wear and tear over time
- More prone to corrosion in coastal areas
- Has a shorter lifespan than copper gutters
Vinyl Gutters: Pros & Cons
Vinyl gutters are manufactured from polyvinyl chloride. This affordable and durable material is resistant to rust and insects. These gutters can be designed to perfectly integrate with your home’s exterior siding for a seamless, flawless aesthetic. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons:
Pros
- Incredibly affordable, and often the most budget-friendly option
- Lightweight and can be installed on any type of roofing system
- Highly modular and can be customized to accommodate unusual designs or layouts
- Resistant to rust and pests
- Low-maintenance and do not require painting or sealing
- Eco-friendly and recyclable
Cons
- Can become brittle and crack in extreme temperatures or due to temperature fluctuations
- Have a shorter lifespan than metal gutters
- May sag under heavy pressure or weight
- Joints can separate or leak over time
- Color can fade due to prolonged UV exposure
- May only be available in standard sizes
Aesthetics & Customizability of Gutter Systems
Vinyl gutter systems may have limited customizability compared to aluminum gutters. They are available in a range of standard colors, and the color, texture, and design can be chosen to match your home’s exterior siding. However, they cannot be painted to match your home’s color. The most common option is the K-style gutter.
Aluminum gutters are highly customizable. You can choose the color, style, and shape, and your gutters can be custom-manufactured to the size and design of your roof. They can be painted or coated to match your property’s exterior, and you can add finishes that enhance their beauty, durability, and lifespan. Available in seamless or traditional designs, you can choose the style and profile that works for your property.
Installation of Vinyl vs Aluminum Gutters
Aluminum gutters are usually installed in seamless, custom-cut sections. This means the process is faster but requires professional gutter installation. However, the result is a system that is less likely to leak and highly durable and resilient, especially in extreme temperatures and weather conditions.
Vinyl gutters are sectional and are installed in separate pieces that snap together. This makes them easier to install as a DIY project; however, the multiple seams can create weak points that lead to leaks. Gutter installation also takes longer and is more labor-intensive.
Care & Maintenance of Each Gutter Type
Because vinyl gutters have seams, they require more maintenance and may not last as long. They require frequent inspections due to their vulnerability to cracks, leaks, and sagging. You will also need to check for signs of brittleness, cracking, and breaking from sun, heat, wind, and cold. They also require regular cleaning. If your gutters need to be repaired, you may need to replace an entire section.
Aluminum gutters are treated to be resistant to moisture, humidity, and corrosion. They are fairly low-maintenance, especially if they are seamless. However, you should regularly inspect them for loose fasteners or hangers, dents, sagging, and other damage. They also must be cleaned regularly. They can withstand extreme weather, including extremely hot and cold temperatures, high winds, and heavy snow and rain. They are easy to repair, and minor dents and scratches can be fixed without replacing the whole gutter system.
Longevity & Value of Vinyl & Aluminum Gutters
Vinyl gutters can last up to 20 years with proper care and maintenance. In extreme temperatures, they may degrade faster and need replacement after 10 years.
With proper care, aluminum gutters can last 20 years or more. They are stronger and more resilient in harsh weather conditions and are often seamless, reducing the risk of leaks and sagging.
Which Is the More Affordable Gutter Option?
The cost of your gutters will depend on the size and layout of your property. Vinyl gutters may be cheaper to install upfront, but will require more care and maintenance and may need to be repaired or replaced sooner than aluminum gutters. While aluminum gutter installation may be more expensive, it can last longer and offer a greater return on investment.
Call to Schedule a Consultation With Gutters Premier
Our experts at Gutters Premier can walk you through a simple gutter type comparison to help you decide which option is right for your home. We’ll help you compare installation time, cost, appearance and aesthetics, and care and maintenance of aluminum vs vinyl gutter systems. We have decades of experience in gutter design, installation, and repair, and provide services for homes and businesses in our community. Our team can handle large-scale commercial projects and small residential installations, as well as gutter upgrades and replacements, and new construction installations. Call us now or reach out to us online to schedule a consultation and explore our affordable gutter options in the Salt Lake City metro area.