Gutters are not just nice to have, they are imperative to the structural integrity of your house. They help to steer water away from the exterior of your home to prevent any type of water damage. If you’re considering having new gutters installed on your home, you may be wondering exactly how long do gutters last.
The good news is that gutters can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years, or even up to 100 years in some cases. Here’s a closer look at the answer to this question and how to know if it’s time to invest in replacing gutters on your home.
The exact length of time gutters last depends on several factors, such as the following:
Gutters come in a variety of materials, including copper, aluminum, galvanized steel, and vinyl. According to the National Association of Home Builders, the lifespan of gutters depends on the type of materials they’re made with.
It’s important to discuss your gutter options with a contractor to ensure you select the right materials for your home.
There are plenty of home improvement projects, such as landscaping and painting, that you can tackle on your own, but replacing gutters isn’t one of them. When installed incorrectly, gutters can crack or pull away from the home, making them ineffective at protecting the structure of your house. It’s always best to let the professionals handle the job.
When it comes to answering the question “How long do gutters last?,” professionally installed gutters typically last years longer than DIY projects. Working with experienced gutter installers can help you save both time and money in the long run.
Proper maintenance is also a crucial element in ensuring your gutters last longer. Most roofing experts recommend cleaning your gutters at least two to four times a year, depending on how many trees you have in your yard. Fortunately, there are effective gutter guard systems available today that can eliminate the need for seasonal cleaning.
One of the easiest ways to tell if it’s time to replace your gutters is to take a walk around your home in the rain. If you notice any cracks or leaks, or if your gutters are overflowing or not flowing at all, it’s likely time to replace your gutters. Sagging gutters, nearby watermarks, and chipping paint around the gutters also point to the need for gutter replacement.
You may also want to invest in replacing gutters to complete an exterior home remodeling project, improve the property value, or eliminate the need for regular gutter cleaning.
In addition to different types of gutter materials, there are two basic styles of gutters: seamed and seamless. Today, seamless gutters are by far the most popular option. The lack of seams in these gutters reduces the risk of leaf and debris buildup.
You can also opt for a gutter guard system. These gutter systems include a hood over the gutter that filters out leaves and other types of debris known to cause blockages or clogs.
Additionally, you can select from a wide range of colors for your new gutters. This allows you to find a color that matches or complements your home’s exterior.
Thompson Creek Window Company is a family-owned business that has been replacing gutters in the Mid-Atlantic region since 1980. Not only are our gutter installers factory-trained, but we also offer premium color options. We guarantee that your newly installed gutters will never pull away from your home or clog. Contact us today to learn more about replacing your gutters.
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