There are different types of materials used to manufacture gutters and downspouts. One of the popular ones is vinyl. While metals like galvanized steel, stainless, aluminum and copper are the better options, many homeowners still choose vinyl. Why?
The Biggest Reasons for Choosing Vinyl
Vinyl gutters are extremely cheap when compared to other types of gutter materials. They’re also available in most home improvement shops. You can buy vinyl gutters for a few bucks.
Vinyl is also very lightweight. This is the main reason it’s also a favorite among DIY enthusiasts. It’s simply easier to install than other materials. Even if you hire pros to install vinyl gutters for you, they’re not likely to charge much because installing your vinyl gutters is quicker.
Once you install vinyl gutters, you can forget about them… Well, almost. They’re low-maintenance. They are not given to dents and dings, unlike metal, and they don’t rust, also unlike some metals.
Before you install vinyl gutters, however, it’s only fair to also learn why they’re not your best option. As a matter of fact, they’re the farthest from being the best, so don’t let the low price and the ease of installation alone convince you.
Why Vinyl Gutters Are Not a Good Option
While all gutter and downspout materials do have their own weaknesses, vinyl has some serious ones. Vinyl is polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic, so there is no way that it can outlast metal. Over time, your vinyl gutters will crack and sag, and develop leaks. This can happen over several years, but vinyl gutters can fail much sooner, as in the first winter, because their worst enemy is freezing cold. So, if you live in an area that receives an abundance of snow and hail, vinyl gutters are not a safe option at all.
One more thing: vinyl gutters cannot be soldered at the joints, which means those seams are going to trap lots of debris and develop leaks.
If you want gutters that last, it’s better to invest in sturdier options. Even better, install gutter caps to prevent debris from causing clogs and leaks. Gutter Helmet® Piedmont can install your gutter covers for longer lasting gutters and downspouts. Call us today at (844) 204-1015, or submit this form to get started on your project in Charlotte, NC.
