Basic Types of Gutters
Let’s start with shapes. There are two basic types, and they’re referred to by the shape of their cross section. Both types come 5-6-and 7-inch widths.
1. K-style gutters have flat bottoms and backs, and the front side of the gutter usually has a decorative shape, such as a curve or ogee, that mimics crown molding. Many styles are available.
2. Half-round gutters are exactly what the name suggests: half-round tubes. Half-round gutters often are found on older, historic homes.
In general, K-style gutters have twice the capacity of their half-round cousins of the same width, and cost up to 50% more per linear foot.
Gutter Materials
Residential gutters are made from various metals, including:
Aluminum
-Most widely used material
-Won’t rust
Seamless Aluminum
Seamless (or continuous) gutters are made at the job site. A truck with a spool of flat aluminum pulls up to your home, and the fabricator uses a gutter-forming machine to custom make whatever gutter length is required. There’s no hauling of long gutters. About 70% of all gutter installations are the seamless type.
Installing seamless gutters:
-Eliminates many seams and reduces chances of leaks
-Costs slightly more than regular aluminum gutters
Copper
-Exceptional beauty
-Won’t rust
-No need to paint; will develop a patina over time
-Needs pro installation; seams and joints must be welded
-Used primarily on high-end residences and historic restorations
-Pricey
Steel
-Strong
-Galvanized steel resists rust but longevity is an issue; may start to rust after 5 to 10 years
-Many color options; can be painted
-Can be pricey
Vinyl
-Lightweight and inexpensive
-Not many colors to choose from
-Color susceptible to fading from UV sunlight
-May crack in severe cold
-Won’t support ladders placed against them
Zinc
-Durable and long-lasting
-No need to paint; will develop a patina over time
-Needs pro installation; seams and joints must be welded
-Used primarily on high-end residences and historic restorations
-Expensive
