Seamless gutters are very popular. Why? And what are seamless gutters in the first place? We answer these questions and more! Keep reading to learn more about the following:

1. What are seamless gutters?
2. Materials of seamless gutters
3. Seamless vs. sectional gutters
4. Pros of seamless gutters
5. Cons of seamless gutters
6. Are seamless gutters worth it?

What Are Seamless Gutters?

Are you tired of looking at your old, worn-out gutters? It might be time to consider switching to seamless gutters. Seamless gutters are different from a traditional gutter system, as they do not have any cuts or visible seams. Seamless gutters are easier to clean than traditional gutter systems because it is more difficult for leaves and other materials to build up in a seamless gutter system. This lessens the chance of obstructed water flow, which means you can expect less leaking.

Seamless gutters are custom-fit, made from coiled metal. Typically, seamless gutters are made from either aluminum, galvanized steel, or copper. The majority of seamless gutters installed are made of aluminum because of their weight, flexibility, resistance to corrosion, and overall great value. There are many colors available for aluminum and steel coatings.

Materials of Seamless Gutters

Aluminum

The reason why over 80% of all seamless gutters are made of aluminum is because aluminum resists corrosion, is lightweight, durable, and available in many finish colors. It can also be easily painted. Aluminum gutters typically last 20+ years in harsh, snowy climates, and 30 years in most other places. The downside is that aluminum can dent and ding more easily than steel. And while aluminum is good looking, it doesn’t have the wow-factor of copper.

Steel

The two things steel has going for it is that it costs less than aluminum, and it doesn’t dent as easily. Negatives of choosing steel for gutters include being heavier than aluminum, so there’s greater risk of gutters pulling off the house, especially when filled with wet leaves or ice. When the coating is scratched and steel is exposed, will begin to rust quickly. Coated steel gutters are a 12 to 20-year solution.

Copper

This material is a visually impressive upgrade and is typically reserved for homes with brick, stone, or genuine wood siding. Copper lasts 50-100 years, so its lifetime cost compared with aluminum and steel is competitive. Upfront cost is the biggest negative. Also, keeping a shine on copper requires a semi-annual investment of time to polish it or money to hire someone to do it. If not cleaned and polished, copper will develop patina that many homeowners find quite appealing.

Seamless vs. Sectional Gutters

Should you choose seamless or sectional gutters? The long-term performance and the durability of seamless gutters is an investment worthwhile. You’ll pay more for seamless gutters, but they’ll last you longer. If you are on a tight budget, however, sectional gutters will work just fine. If you are able to install sectional gutters on your own, and you’re willing to do regular maintenance, sectional gutters will work well. If you do not want to install your own gutters, though, make sure to hire an experienced company to get the job done right. Here’s more information about these two types of gutters:

Seamless Gutters

As compared to sectional gutters, seamless gutters are another popular option. “Sheet metal,” “continuous,” or “soldered” gutters are other names for seamless gutters. They have no potential for leaks or points of failure, because seamless gutters are made from a single coil of aluminum. That aluminum has been treated and coated to prevent rot and erosion. Seamless gutters need to be installed by a professional.

Another great benefit of seamless gutters is that they’re easy to install (by a professional). Seamless gutters cost around the same to have fitted as good sectional gutters, so you’ll get a much better product for around the same cost. Seamless gutters also increase the overall value of your home, while they also reduce your risk of internal water damage, mold, and rot.

Sectional Gutters

Sectional gutters are popular for people who want to install their gutters by themselves. They come in small sections, and you fit the sections together to form a large section of gutter. Usually, they’re made of vinyl, aluminum, or steel. Non-steel gutters are typically a better choice since they won’t rust.

One downside to sectional gutters is that there’s more potential for leaks and points of failure. Leaks can happen even if sectional gutters are professionally installed. If one section of your gutter system becomes blocked, your water overflow will be dramatic and can cause major damage. Or, it is possible that entire sections can collapse under the weight of gallons of rainwater that can’t escape.

Pros of Seamless Gutters

There are many advantages to installing seamless gutters. Here are a few:

• The one-piece gutters are less prone to leaking than their sectional gutter counterparts, although leaks are still possible around downspouts, corners and end caps when not fitted properly or with age.
• They’re a perfect fit when properly measured.
• You’ve got 12 to 24 colors to chooses from, so it’s easy to find one that complements your home.
• Powder-coated gutters can be painted.
• Aluminum, steel, and copper are long-lasting choices compared to sectional vinyl gutters that warp and become brittle with age and weather.

Cons of Seamless Gutters

Is there a downside to switching to seamless gutters? Of course there are disadvantages. Here are a few:

• The cost of material is higher than vinyl sectional gutters since the cost of material is higher.
• They are not DIY-friendly since they require coils of material and a $10,000 extruding gutter machine. Thus, hiring a professional is essential.
• If part of the gutter is damaged, the entire run must be replaced, not just the bad section.

Are Seamless Gutters Worth It?

Seamless gutters are more expensive than traditional gutters – typically a few hundred dollars more. You’re probably wondering why seamless gutters are so popular if they’re that much more expensive. Are seamless gutters actually worth it? Many homeowners would answer “yes” emphatically. Seamless gutters are easier to maintain. Investing in seamless gutters can also increase the value of your home if and when you choose to sell: your roof will be more ventilated because of seamless gutters, which will guard your roof from shingle damage and rot.

Depending on your specific needs as a homeowner, and of course your budget, seamless rain gutters may be the best choice for you. Traditional gutters might be better for you if you don’t mind more maintenance and if you’d rather keep things simple (and cheaper). But if you’re a busy homeowner who would rather not spend your time with gutter maintenance, you can’t go wrong with seamless gutters.

At Alamance Insulation, we know how important it is to maintain your gutters. Serving Greensboro, NC and High Point, NC for over 20 years, you can trust Alamance with your every gutter installation and gutter repair service need. Whether you’re looking to replace, repair, or clean your gutters in the Triad area, give us a call at Alamance Insulation. We’re here to help!