Gutters are an essential part of your home’s drainage system. Without the fixtures, rain runoff from the roof would pour down the sides of the building, saturating siding and deteriorating the foundation. When it comes to gutter installation, copper and aluminum are two popular options. To decide which is better for your property, learn more about both below. 

Copper Is Long-Lasting & Aesthetically Pleasing

Similar to hardwood flooring, copper gutters become more stunning with age. When copper oxidizes, it gains a green patina that protects it from rust. Sealants are also available to prevent oxidation and preserve the original color.

Apart from appearance, copper’s durability makes it ideal for gutter installation. During seasonal storms, it won’t rust when exposed to excessive moisture. The fixtures won’t dent or crack when hit by debris from high-speed winds either.

Since copper is more expensive than aluminum and must be customized for your property, expect to pay more for gutter installation. The fixtures are made to order and often seamless, which reduces the risk of harmful leaks that require expensive repairs to remedy. With routine cleaning and additional maintenance, the investments can last a lifetime, making the initial installation cost worthwhile.

Aluminum Gutters Are Inexpensive & Easy to Install 

Compared to copper, aluminum gutters are less expensive, relatively lightweight, and easy to assemble, which can help cut down on installation costs. With numerous colors available, you can find an option to complement siding, trim, and other elements on the property facade. It can be made seamlessly as well with custom fabrication.

Aluminum doesn’t have the same rust-resistant properties as copper, which is why the fixtures are often covered with enamel paint. The lacquer acts as a moisture barrier to protect the metal underneath. Aluminum is also vulnerable to temperature fluctuations. Heat can expand the material, weakening the joints as a result. Because it’s lightweight, aluminum can dent easily with impact. A gutter contractor should regularly inspect the fixtures to catch and correct minor damage before it becomes irreparable.

To ensure your property can properly drain water during tropical storms in Hawaii, contact the technicians at Waialua-based Gutter King. With over two decades of experience, the fully licensed and insured contractors outfit properties with high-quality seamless and custom rain gutters to ward off water damage. They also provide roof gutter cleaning and repairs to ensure the fixtures always function correctly. Check out their products online, and call (808) 621-5115 to schedule gutter installation on Oahu or the neighbor islands.