Vinyl vs. Aluminum Gutters
The vinyl gutter is one of the most popular choices among homeowners because it is both affordable and easy to install. However, there are some downsides to choosing vinyl gutters. For example, aluminum gutters are much easier to clean and maintain than vinyl gutters. In addition, aluminum gutters are less expensive than vinyl gutters in the long run even if a bit pricier up front. If you want to know what type of gutter is best for you, read on.
Are Vinyl Gutters or Aluminum Gutters Better?
Aluminum gutters are often considered a better choice over vinyl gutters because they’re lighter weight and easier to handle. They’re also much easier to install, requiring no special tools or skills, unless going with a Seamless Rain Gutter option like we do here at Pacific Coast Gutters. But do aluminum gutters really last longer than vinyl gutters? And what about the cost difference?
Vinyl: Affordable and Easy to Install
Vinyl gutters are inexpensive and easy to install. However, they don’t last nearly as long as metal gutters. They also require professional installation.
Ease of Installation
The installation process for aluminum gutter systems is easier than it is for PVC gutters. You don’t have to worry about cutting holes in the roof; you just cut down the length of the gutter system. And because there aren’t any seams, you won’t have to worry about leaks.
Aluminum gutters are easier to clean than PVC gutters. They’re also less expensive to maintain. If you want to keep your home looking great, aluminum gutters are a smart choice.
Affordability
Vinyl gutters are one of the most affordable ways to improve curb appeal. You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to make your home stand out. Gutters come in many different styles and colors. Some are even designed to match your roofing material. If you’re looking for something simple, vinyl gutter guards are perfect. These products are usually installed along the bottom edge of the gutter. They protect it from damage while keeping leaves and debris off your deck or patio.
Material Cost
You can typically find vinyl at a lower cost than aluminum, but that’s mainly because it’s a less desirable material. It’s prone to cracking, leaking and critical damage that could easily spill over into other areas of your home.
The Disadvantages of Vinyl Gutters
Vinyl gutter systems are one of the most common types of roofing material used today. However, there are some disadvantages to consider when choosing vinyl gutters over traditional metal or wood ones.
Most people don’t realize how damaging vinyl gutters can be if left untreated. They’re susceptible to extreme heat and cold, which causes them to expand and contract. This creates stress points along the seams where the panels meet each other. Over time, these weak spots can lead to leaks and even structural failure.
They’re also vulnerable to water intrusion. Water gets trapped inside the seams of the vinyl gutter system because it doesn’t drain properly. When rainwater accumulates, it eventually finds its way into the home. If you live in a region with heavy rainfall, this could pose a serious problem.
Seams weaken the structure of the vinyl gutter. Because of this, it’s important to install them correctly the first time around. Improper installation can lead to leaks and other problems down the road.
Vinyl gutters aren’t very durable. In fact, they’re not recommended by many experts. Metal and wood gutters tend to last longer than vinyl gutters. They’re also easier to maintain.
If you want to make sure your
Aluminum: An All-Around Practical Choice
The term “aluminum” refers to both the metal and the element. Aluminium is one of the most widely used metals in the world today. In fact, it is the third most abundant metal in Earth’s crust. Aluminum is found in many different forms including foil, wire, sheeting, tubing, and castings.
Primary aluminum is the thinnest and strongest type of aluminum. This is because it contains no impurities. However, secondary aluminum does contain some impurities such as iron, copper, zinc, magnesium, calcium, titanium, silicon, manganese, chromium, nickel, lead, beryllium, cadmium, arsenic, antimony, selenium, tellurium, and vanadium. These impurities are what make secondary aluminum less desirable than primary aluminum.
Durability
Aluminum gutters will last much, much longer than vinyl gutter. They won’t crack, peel, rot, warp or sag like vinyl gutters do. And maintenance is key to keeping aluminum gutters looking great.
Maintenance
Aluminum gutters are easy to install and maintain. They come in many different colors and styles, and you can choose the one that best suits your home. You don’t even have to paint them; just give them a good cleaning once a year. Aluminum gutters are great because they’re long lasting and durable. However, they do require some maintenance. If you want to keep yours looking like new, make sure to check out our tips for maintaining aluminum gutters.