Seamless Gutters vs. Traditional: Which Should You Choose?
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Written by: FTC Oury Group
When you hire a contractor to install gutters on your home, one of the first decisions you'll have to make is whether to install seamless gutters or traditional gutters with seams. This part of gutter installation doesn't always get a lot of attention, but it's important to consider whether seamless gutters are right for your home.
In this article, we'll discuss seamless gutters vs traditional gutters and what to know about these two products. Seamless gutters and traditional gutters each have advantages as well as disadvantages. Understanding the differences can help you make a decision. Here's what you need to know.
What are Traditional Gutters?
Traditional gutters are prefabricated products available in standard lengths of 10 feet and 20 feet. Also known as "sectional gutters," traditional gutters are assembled on-site and attached to each other using connectors and caps that are soldered or sealed together.
Traditional gutters are sometimes installed by homeowners, although they are also installed by professional contractors. Traditional gutters come in a range of styles and can be made from many materials. Traditional gutters can be an effective gutter system, although they do require proper installation and can be more susceptible to leaks over time.
Popular Types of Traditional Gutters
There are many gutter styles and materials to be aware of.
- Materials: Traditional gutters can be made from a range of materials including aluminum, vinyl, and galvanized steel. Aluminum is the most popular option because it's lightweight, affordable, eco-friendly, and resistant to corrosion.
- Different shapes: Traditional gutters installed on residential structures come in K-style and half-round shapes. K-style is the most common. Some homeowners prefer half-round gutters because they flush debris more easily.
Not sure which type of gutter is best for your home? It depends on your home's style and budget. Talk to a consultant from FTC Oury Group to find out more about the options and which gutter type is right for your home. We can help you decide by discussing costs and your budget. We'll listen to your priorities and goals and, ultimately, can help you find a product you can be happy with.
What are Seamless Gutters?
Seamless gutters are gutters that are manufactured on-site and installed on your house in one piece. This is made possible by special equipment brought to the job site. The gutter material comes in a roll and is shaped accordingly by special machinery. Any seams on seamless gutters are located at the corners where they wrap around the roof.
Options for Seamless Gutters
Seamless gutters can be made from aluminum, steel, copper, and zinc. Like sectional gutters, aluminum is the most popular option for seamless gutters. Like sectional (traditional) gutters, seamless gutters come in half-round and K-style shapes.
Which Gutter System Should You Pick?
Whether you choose seamless gutters or sectional gutters, it's important to know how your gutters will be installed and maintained, and how long they'll last. Save up your questions for your on-site consultation with someone from FTC Oury Group, or call us to find out more about sectional and seamless gutters.
Installation Requirements
Traditional gutters are sold in prefabricated lengths and do not need to be cut to the exact size of your house. This makes installation relatively easy for an experienced contractor and can mean significant savings for you.
Seamless gutters require special equipment because the gutters are essentially made on-site. Exact measures are required to get the job done. The installation process can be slower and more labor-intensive, so you'll pay more. You'll also need to hire a contractor with seamless gutter installation experience, and the right equipment.
Maintenance & Upkeep Needs
Traditional gutters can start to leak over time, especially if debris gets caught in the seams between sections. If you're a homeowner with traditional gutters, plan to inspect your gutters periodically and make repairs to seams and leaking gutters as needed.
Seamless gutters rarely leak as they have very few seams and are specially made for your house. This translates to less work and maintenance over time. Seamless gutters are less likely to clog because they don't have seams that can catch debris. Your seamless gutters should require fewer repairs as they begin to age.
Durability: Which Lasts Longer?
Sectional gutters typically last no longer than 20 years and may last less time if they're not properly maintained. Seamless gutters can last longer than 20 years, even with little maintenance, because they're a perfect fit for your house. They're less likely to break, less likely to pull away from your house, and they can last longer overall.
Risk of Leaks
Seamless gutters rarely ever leak because they're made from one continuous piece of metal, whereas sectional gutters start to develop leaks as they age. Take care to inspect your sectional gutters regularly and watch for signs of leaks. Get them repaired as soon as you notice a problem to help prolong their service life.
Price Comparison
Seamless gutters cost more to install than sectional gutters. However, seamless gutters may cost less to maintain because they require less repair, and homeowners can get away with slightly fewer cleanings. You can get the most out of your seamless gutters by installing gutter guards on your seamless gutters because they'll need even less cleaning and maintenance.
Get Expert Help Choosing the Right Gutters for Your Home
Having a hard time deciding between seamless gutters vs traditional? We can help. At FTC Oury Group, we install both types of gutters on homes in the Chicago area. We're known for performing quality construction work and can help you install high-quality gutters, roofing, siding, and more. Whether you're installing seamless or traditional gutters, it's important to work with a contractor you can trust. This is why so many homeowners turn to FTC Oury Group. Contact us today to schedule your in-home consultation.
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