As a general rule of thumb, guttering that has been installed within the past decade can last for up to 30 years due to advanced formulations during the manufacturing process. Plastic gutters that have been in place for more than 20 years could very well require an upgrade.
The answer is Copper. Properly maintained copper gutters can last from 50-150 years. That's longer than any other gutter material on the market. Most other materials last between 10-30 years.
Obviously if you just want a job finished quickly and at a low cost, plastic gutters will do the job perfectly but if you want a job that will last through all the bad weather Mother Nature as to throw at us and still be left with a stylish looking drainage system that works, there is no competition, aluminium ...
Gutters are an essential part of any home. They ensure water properly drains off of your roof, helping to protect the roof, siding, landscaping, and foundation from water damage. On average, gutters need to be replaced every 20 years. However, they can last longer if you care for them properly.
Problem #1: Clogged Gutters and Downspouts
Perhaps the most common gutter problem of all, clogging occurs when debris accumulates in the gutter and downspouts, blocking the flow of water and causing it to get backed up. This can result in leaks and damage to attic insulation, as well as your home's foundation.
Zinc – Zinc rain gutters may be expensive but they are very durable. These gutters can last up to 50 years and won't rust or fade. Steel– Steel gutters are very strong and can hold up to all weather types. These gutters can also be painted and customized in many different styles.
Aluminium guttering
It is also highly durable and weatherproof. For these reasons, it will maintain optimal performance over its lifetime, providing great value for money. Aluminium guttering can also provide great visual appeal.
The main advantage of aluminium gutters is their low maintenance requirements. Unlike other guttering materials, such as plastic or steel, aluminium gutters do not require regular painting or sealing to maintain their appearance and performance.
To prevent clogs from forming, regular cleaning of your gutters is essential. Installing gutter guards is a great way to keep debris out, which will reduce the amount of maintenance needed and increase the lifespan of your gutters. Gutters must be properly installed for them to last and function over time.
White is by far the most popular gutter color currently preferred by homeowners and contractors alike. The majority of the homes in the U.S. have white gutters installed. White gutters are a classic choice for their clean and modern look, but they still have a homey feel to them.
Quad gutters
The slotted varieties are especially favoured because they are constructed to handle water overflow in areas with heavy rainfall. Quad gutters are generally made from galvanised, ZINCALUME® or COLORBOND® steel.
When it comes to gutter styles, K-style gutters are undoubtedly the most effective for environments with heavy rain. They can hold exceptionally more water than half-round gutters, especially when they are 6” wide!
One area in which plastic guttering cannot match cast iron and aluminium systems is on longevity, as uPVC house gutters can sometimes become brittle from years of UV light exposure. uPVC is, though, highly resistant to water and will not freeze or corrode over time.
Vinyl gutters become brittle in sub-zero temperatures and may warp or sag in high temperatures. Structural weakness – Vinyl, which is made from PVC plastic, can't support heavy weight loads over a prolonged period, making vinyl gutters unsuitable for areas that frequently experience heavy rainfall.
PVC gutters are durable and robust.
This material can stand up well even in the harshest of weather. It is water and moisture resistant and PVC can never freeze, rust or corrode.
Plastic gutters are by far the cheapest at an average cost of £45 per metre including fitting. It's no surprise that most people opt for plastic for their gutters. If you want metal guttering then you'll pay more. For example, cast iron guttering costs about £80 per metre and aluminium will cost around £55 per metre.
Ground gutters are gutter alternatives too
To install ground gutters, dig a small trench around your home in the spot where rainwater falls off the roof. Then, fill the trench with a waterproof lining and a pipe, and fill the rest in with gravel or pebbles making a clean border around your home.
Black gutters absorb more UV rays than white gutters, which may make them prone to sun fading over time. Even if the gutters are coated to resist UV rays, there is only so much that coating can do. If your house receives constant sunlight, you may want to look into lighter guttering.
Aluminum Gutters Have a Lifespan of Around 20 years
Seamless aluminum gutters have a warranty lasting for 20 years, while downspouts typically carry a 30-year warranty. Unlike other materials for gutters, aluminum can be manufactured to create one seamless gutter for an entire building.
The best quality gutters are made from copper. Properly installed and well-maintained copper gutters can last 50–100 years or longer. However, aluminum gutters may be a more cost-effective option. Many people find that aluminum gutters strike the right balance between price and performance.
It is important to note that some types of roofing may not need gutters. Roofs that have significant overhang will direct water away from the house regardless, which means your home is less likely to need gutters. A significant overhang also means that installing gutters could potentially be a more complex operation.
When water doesn't flow through your gutter properly, it can leak or overflow onto other parts of your property. If it gathers around your house, it can flood into the basement and cause damage to the foundation. Water exposure to siding can result in a costly replacement or unsightly appearance.
If the gutter run doesn't have enough space to accommodate the flow of water, that water will spill over. Many residential homes have 5-inch K-style gutters, which are typically wide enough for normal amounts of rain. But, these gutters may not provide enough space to prevent an overflow in torrential downpours.