A rain gutter system is a valuable investment for all types of residential homes. It’s a vital component of any roofing system. Rain gutters are designed to divert rainwater away from the roof. If it is not installed in place, this water drips down the roof and can be hazardous to the inhabitants of the property.

Thus, it is imperative to install a high quality rain gutter system on your roof. But, finding the right rain gutter entails careful consideration.

Here are a few factors to take into account for selecting the right gutter system:

Material

Gutters are available in a variety of materials. Some of the most popular material choices include aluminum, stainless steel and copper and vinyl. Each of them has its pros and cons.

Stainless steel and copper rain gutters are robust and durable. However, they are more expensive than other materials. Additionally, they may rust over time. Meanwhile, aluminum rain gutter does not rust easily. It is also lightweight, durable and requires little maintenance. Not to mention, aluminum rain gutter is less expensive than steel. You can get aluminum gutters in several colors to find the perfect one for your home.

Furthermore, vinyl is another widely used material that is lightweight, rust proof and durable. Vinyl is more economical than aluminum. And similar to aluminum, it’s available in different colors. The only disadvantage of this rain gutter is that it is not suitable for cold climates. Extreme cold weather conditions can crack vinyl.

Appearance

Choose a gutter that best suits your home’s aesthetic needs. Since rain gutters come in different colors, sizes and shapes, you can pick one that can add to the visual appeal of your roof and property.

Wooden rain gutters are widely used for aesthetic purposes. It adds a warm, authentic touch to homes.

Rain Gutter Size

When it comes to size, most homeowners prefer the 5-inch K style gutters. The best way to determine the size is to take into account rainfall potential and the square footage of the rain gutter’s drainage area. A 5-inch K style gutter, for example, has the capacity to handle 5,500 sq feet of rainwater (a 5-minute downpour).

Sectional vs. seamless

Sectional and seamless are the two types of gutters. Sectional systems are made of aluminum or vinyl segments. They are fairly simple to assemble and install. On the flip side, sectional systems may cause leakages at the joints and seams overtime.

On the other hand, seamless gutters are less likely to cause leaks as they are stronger than sectional gutters. In addition, they are more attractive. However, seamless gutters have higher installation and maintenance costs.

Accessories

Another key element is the gutter accessories. Different types of gutters have varying accessories, which include, but are not limited to, gutter screens, gutter guards, and more. Make sure you buy relevant accessories for your gutter system.

Once you have selected a suitable gutter, be sure to hire a certified professional for its installation. We can help you find a contractor near you and obtain rain gutters installation estimates.