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7 Different Types of Roof Rain Gutters

Roof rain gutters come in many different styles, colours, and shapes. Whether you’re looking to have your existing gutter changed due to damage, or you just want to freshen up your home’s appearance, there are many different types of rain gutters to choose from.

One of the most important distinguishing features of rain gutters is the material that they are made of. This ranges from copper, aluminum, zinc, vinyl, and steel. There are many different benefits to each material, and some are more expensive than others.

Below are seven types of roof rain gutters described in more detail, so you can appropriately install the type of eavestrough that best suits your needs.

Type #1: Seamless Aluminium Roof Rain Gutters

A gutter made from seamless aluminum is a great option to choose when shopping for a new gutter. Since the aluminum is seamless, it reduces the chances of your gutter leaking. These types of gutters are easy to install, are lightweight, and can even be painted a certain colour to match the aesthetic of your home.

These types of roof rain gutters cost slightly more than regular aluminum gutters, but should still be affordable enough for most homeowners.

Type #2: Copper Roof Rain Gutters

There are many benefits to installing a copper gutter on your home. Copper won’t rust, is quite beautiful, and doesn’t require any painting. This type of rain gutter is typically used on historic buildings and high-end residences.

Copper gutters can get quite pricey. If you’re looking for more affordable types of roof rain gutters, this may not be the gutter for you.

Type #3: Vinyl Roof Rain Gutters

Vinyl gutters are very lightweight compared to other types of gutters, are easy to install as they just snap together, and are an inexpensive option since they are so easy to install. These types of gutters are very durable and will be able to withstand many years of wear and tear.

These types of roof rain gutters also won’t rust and corrode like other materials since they are made from PVC plastic. This material is also hard to ding or dent. Vinyl is also the same colour both inside and outside, making it difficult to notice scratches on the material.

Type #4: Galvanized Steel Roof Rain Gutters

These types of roof rain gutters are even stronger than aluminum is galvanized steel. This material makes for a very effective and durable rain gutter. For example, if you live in an environment that has extreme weather, this material can stand up to the expansions and contractions that happen when the weather changes from one extreme to the next.

Galvanized steel also resists rusting for a number of years and is available in a wide variety of colours. Since this material is so durable it does cost a little bit extra but is definitely worth the investment.

Type #5: Zinc Roof Rain Gutters

Another durable material for rain gutters is zinc. Gutters made from zinc last twice as long as more common materials like aluminum. Added to the zinc are small amounts of copper and titanium.

These types of roof rain gutters are traditionally left unpainted. If you want something that is going to last for a long time, zinc is the rain gutter to opt for.

Type #6: Wood Roof Rain Gutters

Believe it or not, rain gutters also come made out of wood. Some common types of wood used in gutters are fir and redwood. This option is especially aesthetically pleasing for the eyes. Wood is also very strong, making it a durable option for a rain gutter on your home.

Keep in mind that there are a few drawbacks to using wood for your gutters. Since the surface of the wood is rougher than some of these other materials, they carry less water and there is more resistance to the flow of water. Unlike other types of rain gutters, this option will need more maintenance since it will need periodic oiling and sealing.

However, if you care for these gutters properly, these types of roof rain gutters could last longer than gutters made from other materials.

Type #7: K-Style Profile Roof Rain Gutters

The K-Style profile is a popular option when it comes to rain gutters, making up about 80% of rain gutter styles. Where does this gutter get its unique name from? Its name is derived from the national association that lists it as option “K” in its available types of gutters.

Traditionally made from copper and aluminum, K-Style profiles are visually appealing and very decorative, which is one of the reasons why it’s one of the most popular types of roof rain gutters. Similar to seamless aluminum, K-Style gutters are also seamless which helps in reducing leaks. They are able to hold more rainwater than gutters that are rounder in shape, making them a viable often if you live in a particularly rainy location.

Since your rain gutters will be on your home for some time, it’s important to choose one that meets your style. Use this list to determine which type of material you would like to have your rain gutter made out of and then call in the professionals to have it installed.