6 Things to Consider When Purchasing Gutters

Shopping for new gutters but unsure where to begin? Choosing the right system for your home can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Here are six key things to keep in mind when selecting gutters for your property.

1. Dimensions

Gutters are typically categorized by the width of their upper opening. The most common size is 5 inches (12.7 cm)—perfect for most residential properties.

For buildings that need to handle larger volumes of water, like commercial facilities, agricultural structures, or homes with steep roofs, 6-inch (15.2 cm) gutters are more suitable.

2. Materials

Each material offers distinct advantages depending on your climate, budget, and aesthetic preferences:

• Aluminum: A popular and versatile option available in many colors and profiles. Aluminum resists rust and performs well in most weather conditions.
• Copper: Ideal for heritage homes or buildings with copper roofing, copper gutters are both durable and visually striking. While rust-proof, they develop a greenish patina over time.
• Galvanized Steel: Durable and well-suited to snowy regions, galvanized steel offers a rugged appearance. However, it is prone to rust over time.
• Vinyl: Often the most budget-friendly, vinyl gutters are lightweight and rust-proof. That said, they don’t perform well in extreme cold and may fade with prolonged sun exposure.

3. Shapes

Gutter shape impacts both aesthetics and performance. Here are the three most common types:

• Fascia: Common in Western Canada. Taller in height, with a smaller base and a molded appearance.
• K-style: The standard option for most homes in North America.
• Half-round: Traditional in style and still widely used in Europe.

4. Sectional vs. Seamless Gutters

Seamless gutters are custom-cut on-site by professionals using specialized equipment. Most aluminum gutters are seamless, providing a sleek, leak-resistant finish.

Sectional gutters are sold in pre-cut lengths and can be purchased at hardware stores. They’re a good option for DIY installations, but the seams between sections may increase the risk of leaks over time.

5. Gutter Protection

Protecting your gutters helps extend their life and reduces maintenance. Alu-Rex offers two high-performance options:

• Gutter Clean System®: Installed over existing gutters, this leaf guard prevents clogs caused by leaves, snow, ice, and debris.
• T-Rex® Continuous Hanger™: Built directly into new gutters, this patented hanger reinforces and protects your gutter system while keeping it securely closed.

6. Installation

As mentioned above, seamless gutters should always be installed by professionals to ensure proper fit and performance. Sectional systems can be installed as a DIY project if you're comfortable with basic tools and measurements. However, for the best results and lasting durability, it’s wise to hire experienced installers.