How Long Should a New Set of Gutters Last?
Having to purchase new gutters is certainly not ideal. No one wants to have to fork out a ton of money for new gutters. Unfortunately, gutters are one of those things you have to have for your home and one of those things that must be maintained. But how long does a fresh set of gutters last?
We know that buying new gutters in Central Kentucky is a pretty decent sized expense for most. We all want to make sure we are getting the most bang for our buck. We don’t want to buy new gutters now and then need to replace them in 5 years or less.
Today we are going to share how long gutters last and ways to make your gutters last even longer.
Life Expectancy of Gutters
On average, gutters are expected to last anywhere from 20 to 50 years. Of course, that number depends on how the gutters are maintained, the type of gutters, and much more. No one can be certain how long your gutters will last at installation, but we can give you tips and tricks to help your gutters last longer and serve you better in the long run.
Type of Material
There are several types of materials from which gutters can be made. The type of material used for your gutters can make a huge difference on the lifespan of your gutters.
- Gutters made from copper typically last 50 years or more. These gutters are very expensive and uncommon.
- Gutters made from vinyl last about 25 years.
- Gutters made from aluminum last an average of 20 years.
- Gutters made from galvanized steel last about 20 years.
When you are buying new gutters, it is essential that you discuss your options with your contractor and ask them what type of material they use.
Professional Installation
Believe it or not, having your gutters installed by a professional increases the lifespan of your gutters. Gutters that are installed incorrectly can easily pull away from the home and cause both short-term and long-term damage to your home. Gutter installation is one of those things you want a professional to handle. On average, professionally installed gutters last years longer than gutters you installed yourself. While installing your gutters yourself might save you money in the short term, in the long run, it pays to have your gutters professionally installed.
Regular Maintenance
Regular gutter cleaning and maintenance plays a critical role in the overall health of your gutters. With proper, regular maintenance, your gutters will last much longer than if left alone. During a gutter cleaning, we not only clean your gutters, but we check for any leaks that may need to be resealed or repaired and present those to you and take care of them for you if requested. We recommend you clean your gutters twice a year: in the spring and fall. Of course, if you have a lot of trees in your yard, it may be necessary to clean your gutters more often.
If you don’t want to clean your gutters that often, there are some other options which can preserve the life of your gutters. For example, leaf guards are installed to protect your gutters and prevent debris from getting into your gutters. Leaf guards are highly effective, prevent the need for regular cleanings, and protect your gutters from damage.
When to Replace Your Gutters
The best (and easiest!) way to know if your gutters need replaced is to take a look at your gutters while it is raining. As you walk around your home, look for any place where there are cracks or leaks in your gutters. Take notice if your gutters are overflowing or not flowing at all. Sagging gutters, nearby watermarks, and chipped paint around the gutters are also tell-tale signs that your gutters need replaced.
In conclusion, it is difficult to tell exactly how long a fresh set of gutters should last. While most gutters last anywhere from 20-50 years, the life of your gutters can be prolonged by routine cleaning and making sure to have them professionally installed.
For more information on gutter cleaning or to get a free estimate for a cleaning, call 502-503-7204 today.
