Gutters aren’t just nice to have—they’re an imperative home feature that can protect your foundation, prevent flood damage, and keep your siding looking its best. If you’re considering replacing your gutters, you may wonder which ones last the longest and how to extend the lifespan of your investment. Find the answers here before you schedule gutter installation.
How Long Do Gutters Last?
The answer to this question depends on what your gutters are made of, the installation method you choose, and how well you care for your gutters.
Gutter Lifespan by Material
Vinyl gutters have the shortest lifespan of 10 to 15 years. On the other end of the spectrum, copper has the most impressive longevity of up to 100 years. However, copper is quite pricey and has a distinctive look that doesn’t match most contemporary homes.
The perfect alternative is aluminum, which lasts about 25 years and has numerous modern color options to choose from. Since aluminum downspouts experience less wear and tear, they can last up to 40 years.
Installation Affects How Long Gutters Last
While you can tackle plenty of home improvement projects yourself, installing new gutters is not one of them. If installed poorly, gutters may fail to drain properly or pull away from the house after just a few months. That’s why it’s best to let a professional handle the job.
Another benefit of professional installation is having access to a seamless gutter design. Special equipment extrudes seamless gutters onsite, so they fit your home’s dimensions perfectly. Unlike traditional seamed gutters, seamless versions aren’t vulnerable to separating and leaking. This can add years to their lifespan.
Maintenance Habits to Help Gutters Last Longer
No matter what type of gutters you install, you can help them last longer with these tips:
- Clean your gutters at least twice a year.
- Avoid leaning ladders against the gutters when performing home maintenance tasks.
- Reapply gutter sealant to seamed gutters every five to 10 years.
- Hire a gutter company for repairs when you notice anything amiss to prevent the problem from worsening.
When to Consider Gutter Replacement
In summary, the longest-lasting mainstream gutters are made of aluminum, seamless in design, installed professionally, and maintained properly. But even the longest-lasting gutters must be replaced eventually. Here are the signs to watch for:
- Standing water in the gutters
- Overflowing gutters during heavy rain
- Missing screws or fasteners
- Leaky or sagging gutters
- Water stains on the siding
- Rotting fascia
- Basement flooding
For reliable gutter installation in Snohomish or King County, turn to High Point Gutter. We have years of experience installing gutters with performance and longevity in mind. With our help, your gutters will look great and function properly from day one. Keep them in good shape for years to come by relying on us for gutter cleaning and gutter repairs as well. To request a gutter replacement estimate, please call us at (425) 449-6622 or contact us online.
