Nothing lasts forever, and while rain gutters may serve you for many years, they do eventually need to be replaced. How long your gutters will last depends on the material they are made out of and how often you get them cleaned and maintained. This quick guide will tell you how long your rain gutters will last and also help you choose the right material for your replacement gutters.
Vinyl Gutters Last 10 Years
Vinyl is the most common gutter material, as it is cost-effective and simple to install. Vinyl gutters can be painted to match your roof or siding. However, they have the shortest lifespan of gutter types.
In wet or salty climates, like along the coast of California, vinyl gutters may need to be replaced every 10 years. Further from the coast, in drier parts of California, vinyl gutters may last longer, even up to 20 years.
Aluminum Gutters Last 20 Years
Aluminum has great rust resistance. Plus, aluminum gutters can match aluminum siding, so they are a great choice to enhance the curb appeal of your home. They are only slightly more expensive than vinyl shingles and just as easy to install.
However, aluminum is only a bit stronger than vinyl and weaker than the other materials on the list. They also have a major drawback in that they can’t be used with algae-resistant shingles, as the copper in those shingles can damage them. Assuming they don’t get dented or damaged, aluminum shingles can last 20 years.
Galvanized Steel Gutters Last 20 Years
Galvanized steel gutters work with any kind of shingle, and they are great for our climate because they resist heat well. Plus, galvanized steel is a stronger material than vinyl and aluminum and is much less likely to be dented and cracked.
However, galvanized steel is a more expensive material than vinyl and aluminum and may require more maintenance due to its tendency to shrink and expand when the temperature changes. Galvanized steel gutters last 20 years.
Copper Gutters Last 50 Years
Copper is the least common gutter material, but don’t write it off just for that reason. Copper is the most durable material,and it can be used with any kind of shingle. Copper elevates a roof, adding style, especially when you have copper flashing to match.
However, copper is the most expensive gutter material by far. It is also more challenging to install than other kinds of gutter material. The copper itself is harder to work with, and your roofer will also have to use copper for your other roof fasteners, or the two metals will negatively affect one another and wear out faster.
Copper gutters last the longest, at 50 years, or even more.
How to Make Your Gutters Last Longer
To ensure that your gutters reach their maximum lifespan, you should follow these steps:
- Do not lean ladders or other things against the gutters, especially gutters made out of softer materials.
- Have gutter clogs fixed right away, don’t let water spill over the sides of your gutters.
- Get your gutters cleaned out regularly, at least once per year.