What to Know When Buying Copper Gutters
Copper gutters are a great choice for newly-built homes, especially those with an elegant exterior aesthetic. Copper is generally more expensive than typical aluminum gutters, but they’re also better quality and have a longer lifespan. If you’re thinking of going with copper for your gutter system, there are a few things to think about before you make the leap. Here’s what to know when buying copper gutters.
Manufacturer
Getting the best copper gutters means going to a high-quality manufacturer. Low-cost copper gutters usually use thinner material; it takes less time to fabricate the gutters and costs less, but the durability and functionality are lacking. Instead of a strong and long-lasting gutter system, you will end up with an inferior system. If you’re going with copper, it’s best to spend a bit of extra time and money to get a great product.
Style
There are two main styles of gutter to choose from when selecting your copper system. Which one you choose will come down to cost and preference.
- K-style gutters are named for the profile of this style, which slightly resembles the letter “k.” From the front, it looks almost like crown molding, so it’s a great way to add curb appeal to a modern home. In addition, they have a flat side that makes installation a bit easier.
- Half-round style guttering has a round U-shape that works well on historic homes. Without a flat side, they’re a little harder to install, but they’re also lower-maintenance and have a longer lifespan.
A less common style option is Euro-style copper gutters. They’re larger and can drain much more water, so they’re great for coastal homes that see a lot of rainfall. However, they’re also quite heavy, so you need to make sure to invest in professional installation to ensure safety for your home and family.
Parts and Accessories
Along with the guttering, you’ll need to think about other parts and accessories to go with your gutter system. Downspouts are a necessary component to making sure that your copper gutters properly drain water off the roof and away from the home.
Downspouts come in seamless and seamed varieties. Seamless downspouts are stronger and will stand against harsh weather and extreme temperatures. However, hot and cold temperatures can cause seamed spouts to expand and contract, leading to potential cracking and leaks.
Other accessories you might look into are leader heads, mounting brackets, and downspout straps. Your professional copper gutter installer will be able to help you choose the accessories that will complement your system both in function and style.
If you’d like to know more about copper gutters, or if you’re ready to make a purchase, Driscoll Contracting can help. Our professionals will help you select the right copper gutters for your home and install them for you. Give us a call today!
