Whether you're building a new home or making improvements on an existing structure, choosing gutters and downspouts can be an overwhelming task given the different shapes and materials. Here's a look at some of the most common gutter shapes and materials, along with some advantages and disadvantages associated with each type.
1. GUTTER SHAPES
GUTTER MATERIALS
Here’s a look at various gutter materials and shapes,
along with some advantages and disadvantages
associated with each type:
Buyer’s Guide to
GUTTERS &
DOWNSPOUTS
K-STYLE
Features a flat bottom and back.
These gutters often have fronts made
to resemble crown molding. This
shape has been popular since World
War II, because it handles more water
than half-round gutters.
HALF-ROUND
Features a rounded bottom; typically
found on older homes. Some people
prefer them because their rounded
trough shape drains more efficiently
than K-style gutters.
VINYL
PROS
• Inexpensive
• Snap-together assembly makes them
good for do-it-yourselfers
• Will not rust or rot
CONS
• Gets brittle in cold and under sun
• Can bend or bow under heavy loads
• Won’t support ladders placed
against them
• Limited colors available
AVERAGE COST
$1 to $2 per foot
VINYL
PROS
• Inexpensive
• Rustproof
• Easy to install
• Comes in many colors
CONS
• Lightweight construction makes
them easy to bend or dent
• Areas with snowfall require
thicker gauges
AVERAGE COST
$2 to $8 per foot
VINYL
PROS
• Durable
• Won’t rust
• Develops gray patina over time,
no need to paint
• Lasts 30 to 50 years
CONS
• Expensive
• Requires welding of joints by
professional installers
AVERAGE COST
$9 to $10 per foot, plus installation costs
VINYL
PROS
• Won’t rust
• Doesn’t need painting, will develop
patina over time
• Lasts up to 100 years
CONS
• Expensive
• Requires professional installation
to weld joints
AVERAGE COST
$11 to $18 per foot, plus installation costs
VINYL
PROS
• Stronger than aluminum or vinyl
• Many color options available, can be
painted
• Stainless steel won’t rust
CONS
• Heavy
• Costlier than vinyl or aluminum
• Galvanized steel is susceptible to rust
after 5 to 10 years
AVERAGE COST
$2 to $8 per foot (galvanized)
$5 to $12 per foot (stainless)
VINYL
ALUMINUM
ZINC
COPPER
STEEL