When it comes to choosing gutters for your North Carolina home, you have a lot of options to choose from. There are many variations and materials available, including copper, aluminum, and galvalume. Galvalume and aluminum can look similar, but they are not the same. Keep reading to learn more about the differences between galvalume gutters and aluminum gutters to help you decide which is right for your home.
What Are Galvalume Gutters?
Galvalume gutters have an underlying layer of steel that is coated with a mixture of aluminum and zinc. The steel structure gives the gutters strength and durability, while the coating protects the steel from rust. This is similar to galvanized steel, but galvalume is typically thinner and more lightweight, making it a great option for your North Carolina gutter system. Galvalume gutters are also more flexible, allowing them to easily contract and expand during rapid temperature changes. This makes galvalume gutters less likely to crack and break than some other gutter types. If maintained properly, galvalume gutters could potentially last up to 70 or more years.
Pros & Cons of Galvalume Gutters
One of the biggest benefits of galvalume gutters is their strong structural integrity combined with flexibility. As long as it is maintained properly, this type of gutter will last a very long time without losing its functionality or appearance. Galvalume is cheaper than copper and lasts almost as long, making these gutters a great investment that is well worth the money in the long run. The only disadvantage of this type of gutter is that it is not very easy to install. Only a professional can properly seal the seams and joints for optimal performance.
What Are Aluminum Gutters?
Aluminum gutters are one of the most popular types of gutters available. As the name suggests, these gutters are made purely of aluminum. While galvalume gutters have some aluminum in them, aluminum alone is also enough to make a great gutter system. Aluminum gutters are very malleable and easy to install without being structurally weak, and the metal is resistant to rust. Aluminum is also fairly cheap and easy to source. Aluminum gutters will often last around 20 years if properly maintained, and aluminum downspouts can last up to 30 years.
Pros & Cons of Aluminum Gutters
Even though aluminum gutters don’t last as long as galvalume gutters, this type of gutter is very popular. Aluminum is much cheaper than galvalume, so aluminum gutters typically cost less than galvalume gutters. Aluminum gutters are also easy to install and have great structural integrity. These gutters can hold weight from heavy rains and do not often break from clogging. However, aluminum gutters are more easily damaged by impact. If there’s a hailstorm or a tree branch falls on them, they will likely dent or bend. This type of gutter is best for homes in places that do not experience strong winds or hail.
Which Is Right for Your North Carolina Home?
If your home is in North Carolina, galvalume gutters will probably be the best choice. These gutters can withstand all types of weather without becoming damaged. While this type of gutter costs more initially, it is a worthwhile investment long-term. You will not have to repair or replace them as frequently, giving you more value for your money. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, aluminum gutters are much cheaper and will still do the job well.
At GutterPro, we offer copper, aluminum, and galvalume gutters in North Carolina. You can choose from dozens of colors of half-round gutters and seamless gutters to accentuate your home’s aesthetic. Our experienced team of gutter professionals can customize the right gutters for your home and efficiently install them for optimal function and appearance. Reach out to our North Carolina gutter company today to learn more and get started!
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