Types of Rain Gutters to Consider for Your Home
There are many types of rain gutters to choose from. Theyy come in a variety of styles and materials, which affect their functionality, durability and overall price. If it is time to replace the gutters on your home, or if you are installing gutters on a new house, it’s important to select the best type to suit your home style, climate and budget.
What are the different types of rain gutters?
There are 3 main types of gutters: K-Style, Half-Round, and Box gutters. We like to add a 4th: Custom Fascia Gutters. Each of these styles are available in a variety of materials, such as Aluminum, Copper, Vinyl, and Steel. Let’s take a look at each of these styles and what they are primarily used for.
1) K-style rain gutters
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K-style gutters are the most popular gutter style among American homeowners for a reason. This style of gutter, which looks like the K (from a side view) typically holds more water than other gutter types. It is their unique shape that helps them hold more water. This flat bottom shape also makes them less likely to spring leaks or to bend or break under the weight of the water in the gutter. These gutters have an additional bonus. They have the appearance of crown molding, where the gutter meets your roof, which enhances the style of your home.
There are a few reasons that make k-style gutters so popular today.
- They have a higher capacity for water. The flat bottom and outwardly angled front side mean they can carry more water than most other gutter styles.
- These types of rain gutters are easier to install.
- The flat back allows them to be nailed directly to your home’s fascia board without requiring brackets
- This type of rain gutter has flat backs and bottoms with a decorative front side that resembles crown molding.
- These types of gutters are sturdy and will last a very long time.
We offer K-style gutters in a 6-inch width.
2) Box gutters
As suggested by their name, Box Gutters are square-shaped, with a flat back, bottom and side. The popular choice on commercial properties, box gutters are also a great choice for residential homes to provide a clean, modern look. We offer box gutters in a 6-inch width.
3) Half-round gutters
4) Fascia gutters
This type of rain gutter style is common on homes that do not have a fascia board along the lower edge of the roof. They are custom-built for individual homes out of aluminum and must be professionally installed.
Rain Gutter Materials
Just as important as the type of rain gutter is the material they are made from, which impacts their durability and suitability for the climate you live in. Two of the most common materials include:
1) Aluminum
Aluminum gutters are low-cost and low-maintenance. Because they don’t rust, they have a long lifespan, making them the most popular choice on homes today.
2) Steel
Steel gutters are extremely strong and hold up well in extremely hot and extremely cold climates, including the Arizona heat. They should last for multiple decades before showing signs of corrosion.
While copper gutters are another popular choice, especially due to their elegant appearance, they are not suitable for Arizona’s climate, as they expand and contract with the heat. Vinyl gutters are a cost-effective, DIY-friendly option, but they are the least durable and can bend under heavy rain, wind and snow.
We offer K-style and box gutters in both aluminum and steel.
Gutter Installation for Your
Northern Arizona Home
Residential rain gutters are a long-term investment that should last for many years, even in the extreme Arizona heat. So, choose your style and material carefully, and consult with an experienced professional for more insight.
