Gutters are an important part of our homes as they help divert water away from our roofs to a safe distance. Gutters are an investment, especially depending on the material you choose. However, only certain materials are built to withstand Canadian weather. With a wide variety of constantly changing weather, our gutters go through a lot in a year. Here are the best gutter materials for Canada that will withstand our four seasons and variety of weather.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel gutters are one of the best options for Canadian homes. This is because they are very durable and sturdy. They are stronger than aluminum which means they can handle more harsh weather as compared to other materials. Be it snow, hail or rain, these gutters will not rust and therefore will last you longer. Longevity is another benefit as stainless steel gutters are the most expensive option. Stainless steel gutters will cost you between $11 and $33 per piece. While this may seem expensive, keep in mind they will last longer in harsh Canadian weather. This means that you will not have to pay to repair or replace them as often as other materials. Stainless steel gutters are a smart investment for your home that will look great and function properly.
Aluminum
If you want a stainless steel look on a vinyl budget, consider going with aluminum gutters. Similar to stainless steel, aluminum gutters are weather-resistant and maintain their integrity in cold climates, making them a go-to choice for Canadian homes. Another benefit is that they’re more affordable, costing you roughly between $6 and $12 per piece. One drawback is that they are more malleable and can be more easily dented. This means you will have to be careful if you rest a ladder against them to string holiday lights. While they may need to be replaced sooner than other materials, they are a popular choice with Canadian homeowners because of their price and cold weather durability.
What about Vinyl?
After reading the price points of other materials, many homeowners look for a cheaper alternative. While vinyl gutters are certainly the least expensive option, costing about $4 to $8 per piece, they are not a good option for Canadian homes. This is because they cannot handle extreme weather conditions. Cold temperatures can cause vinyl to become brittle and crack, requiring replacement sooner than the other more durable materials. In addition to cracking, poor installation can cause problems such as sagging. Save yourself from unattractive gutters that won’t do their job right.
When it comes to choosing gutters for your home, it’s important to invest in a material that can handle all types of weather. Whether you live in Calgary and see hail storms in the summer or rainy Vancouver, it’s important your gutters will last. Whether you go with aluminum or stainless steel, be sure to connect with a pro who can properly install them for you. Remember, there is no sense in investing in quality gutters if they’re not attached to your home right. Connect with a pro today to install one of the best gutter materials for Canada on your home.