Gutters are some of the ignored parts of any house’s maintenance check. This ignored home structure offers a lot of benefits as its simple structural design allows for the easy flow of water from the roof to the nearest water outlet. The flow of water helps protect your house from severe water damage that can get into certain rooms and cause substantial damage to your expensive appliances and properties.
During rain, water flows down from the roof slope to the gutters. As the water puddles, it travels through the gutter system to the downspout, a structure that transports water from the gutters to the bottom of the house.
Like other home structures, gutters also get damaged once they get old and work out. Millions of homeowners have little knowledge of how gutters work, how long they last, and when they should be replaced. Luckily, this article will provide detailed and applicable information on gutters.
How long does a gutter last?
The average gutter can last for at least 25 years and at most 100 years before it needs to be replaced. This varying length of time can be confusing for homeowners as it can be difficult to ascertain the functionality of your gutter. To properly determine how long your butter lasts, some factors need to be considered, and they include:
The gutter material
Gutters can be made from a wide range of materials, and the type of material plays a major role in how long the gutter will last. Gutters can be created with different materials such as copper, aluminum, galvanized steel, and vinyl.
- Aluminum gutters: Gutters made from aluminum can last for 20 years, while the downspouts can last for 40 years (which is double the gutter’s lifespan)
- Galvanized steel gutters: Galvanized steel gutters have a lifespan of20 years
- Vinyl gutters: Unlike the aforementioned materials, vinyl gutters has an edge and can last for up to25 years.
- Copper gutter: Most gutters are made from copper, and it’s no doubt it’s a favorite for many homeowners as it can last for 50 years or more, and the downspouts can last for up to 100 years.
Level of professionalism during the gutter’s installation
Unlike various home maintenance projects that can be done by yourself, installing a gutter is an exception as it requires skills. An improperly installed gutter can easily crack or pull out once it gets flooded with water or debris. According to the National Association of Homebuilders, homeowners are advised to patronize registered professionals for their gutter installation as proper gutter installation contributes actively to your gutter lifespan.
Conclusion
Is water pouring out of your gutters instead of your downspouts? Are there noticeable cracks in your home’s foundation? Is your gutter saggy, hanging loose, bent, or cracked? Then you are in dire need of an exterior home improvement gutter expert like Reynolds Gutters.
Reynolds Gutters is an exterior home improvement agency that helps homeowners repair, maintain, and replace their gutters for an affordable price. With Reynolds Gutters, you no longer have to suffer leakages in your home as our expert can provide immediate relief to your gutter problems.