Gutter systems are an essential line of defense against water damage. That is why it’s crucial to pick the right material for your gutters. Premium materials like zinc and copper come highly recommended due to their superior performance and durability. But of course, these two types of gutter materials have qualities that set them apart from each other.
Appearance
Copper features a rustic finish that goes perfectly with historic homes. It’s also a great option for homeowners who want to add a luxurious touch to their homes. Copper gutters can also complement wood and brick exteriors. And, with the blue-green patina that copper gets over time due to oxidation, you can add an old-world charm to your home. Zinc gutters, on the other hand, have a more flexible style. They are available in various colors as well, so they fit more easily into different homes.
Longevity
Zinc and copper are generally longer lasting than other gutter materials like aluminum. However, copper may have an edge over zinc since the former is not affected by salt water. High salt content in the air can cause zinc to permanently stain. So, if your home is in the vicinity of the coast, experts recommend power washing your gutters on a regular basis. If you fail to rinse salt water off your zinc gutters, the material will prematurely break down, slashing 20 to 40 years off the gutter system’s life expectancy.
Cost
Both zinc and copper are considered premium gutter materials. However, copper gutters usually cost more. They can be 10% to 100% more expensive than zinc gutters depending on the extent of installation, the shape of the molds and the soldering required.
Gutter Helmet® of Piedmont is a locally owned and operated business that provides excellent gutter protection products and services. With our gutter guards, you can rest assured that your gutter system will be completely protected. Call us at (844) 204-1015, or fill out our contact form to request a free quote. We serve customers in Charlotte, NC, and the surrounding areas.
