Many homeowners do not know how important it is to have a good gutter system. After all, damaged rain gutters can create a lot of damage, too! If you think your rain gutters need a replacement and you don’t know where to begin, one of the best gutter companies in Virginia, Sentry Exteriors, is here to lend you a hand.
What Type of Gutter Do You Want?
The first thing you need to do is to decide whether you want a seamless gutter or a sectional gutter. As any expert will tell you, a seamless one is your best option, as it is customized for your home’s roof and it’s unlikely that you’ll experience any leaks with this one.
However, if you are on a tight budget and you can’t postpone a gutter replacement any longer, sectional gutters are an inexpensive option. Just remember that this type of gutter is prone to getting leaks, especially at the joints.
Half-Round or K-Style
There are also two shapes for you to consider when getting new gutters. If you have a traditional-looking home, you might want to consider a half-round or U-shaped gutter. For more modern architectures, K-style gutters might be more suitable. This is a purely aesthetic choice and won’t affect the performance of the gutters.
Options for Material
Rain gutters are made from different materials. There a few considerations to make when choosing one, like durability, strength and cost.
Most roofing contractors will tell you that copper is among the best gutter materials you can get. It is rust-proof and when installation is done properly, copper gutters should last you about 75 and even up to 100 years!
Galvanized steel is also a good option, especially if you live in an area where your home has to endure extremely harsh weather elements. This material should be able to last you for about 20 years or so.
Among the most popular options for gutter is aluminum. Homeowners like how it is readily available in different colors so they can easily match it with their roofing system. It is also rust-proof, lightweight and inexpensive.
Other Elements of a Gutter System
Your gutter system would also include a downspout to drain water away from your home and keep your exterior safe from any damage. You can choose between a circular and a rectangular downspout. You might want to consider getting a splash block to avoid splatter from the downspout as well.
Gutter guards also play an important part in your gutter system as it keeps it from getting clogged by twigs, leaves and other debris.
Your gutter system plays too big of a role in your home’s form and function for you to risk installing it incorrectly. If you want superior quality gutter materials and proper installation, you can contact Sentry Exteriors at (434) 333-7753. We install roofing, gutters and more in Roanoke, VA and the neighboring areas.