Rain gutters may not be something you think about often, but they are essential for protecting the foundation of your home by diverting water away from it. But as is true with most products, not all gutters are created equal. Let’s take a look at the differences between plastic and metal gutters to see why metal gutters are the clear choice.
Seamless is Better
Would you rather have plastic gutters made up of pieced-together sections with seams that will inevitably leak over time, or smooth, seamless metal guttering that’s far less likely to leak? The answer is obvious: metal gutters in Columbus, OH, are the smarter solution.
Metal Lasts Longer
While plastic gutters have the potential to last up to 20 years, they frequently end up wearing out in half that time. In areas where extremes in temperatures are common, plastic gutters have been known to crack and break. They can also bend and distort under a load of wet leaves or heavy rain. Metal gutters of the correct gauge are much more durable, lasting at least 20 years, if not more. A gutter gauge that is too thin, like .019 gauge, can be crushed by a falling branch or a ladder leaning against it. Muth’s standard gauge for residential use is .027 gauge, with the heavier .032 gauge reserved for commercial buildings. Another plus is that if a metal gutter does get dings or dents, it can be repaired easily with a few taps of the hammer.
Hidden Hangers vs. Spikes
Not only are gutter spikes unattractive, the way they are installed gives them poor holding power. A better alternative is to use hidden hangers, which have 2 ½-inch screws that permit the gutters to “float.” This relieves stress on the gutters and allows them to expand and contract without pulling out. Muth & Company Roofing in Delaware, OH, always uses hidden hangers and installs them every two feet. Most other roofing companies install them at three-foot intervals, which will put undue stress on the gutters and could cause them to sag or warp from heat or water.
To find out more about the benefits of seamless gutters and see the options offered by Muth & Company, give us a call today at (614) 682-3060. We’re here to help!