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HOW LONG DO ALUMINUM GUTTERS LAST?
When considering new aluminum gutter installation, one of the most common questions often asked is “how long do aluminum gutters last?”
Whether you’re comparing aluminum gutter pricing to other guttering materials such as copper, or simply curious of what the average cost per year will be, this guide covers everything that you need to know.
Before we get to the answer we’ll discuss factors that contribute to the lifespan of gutters, and signs that gutter systems need to be replaced soon. You are also able to skim ahead to the conclusion to find how long gutters typically last.
1. FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO THE LIFESPAN OF GUTTERS:
Certain factors cause more “wear and tear” on gutters which help speed up the process of aging and eventually the overall failure of the gutter system. Overtime aluminum gutters begin to warp, corrode, rust, or degrade. In addition to the aluminum degrading over time, the sealants also begin to fail due to constant exposure to the elements.
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How Well The Gutters Are Maintained
Gutter maintenance is the number one contributing factor towards gutter life expectancy. Setting a proper gutter cleaning schedule is the most important thing homeowners can do towards helping their gutters last longer. The better the gutters are maintained, the longer they will last. Staying on top of gutter repair issues also help increase the overall lifespan of the gutter system.
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Annual Debris Accumulations
How much leaves and other debris that ends up in the gutters also plays a huge role in how long aluminum gutters last. Homes that are in wooded lots or need to have their gutters cleared out multiple times per year will experience more wear and tear than homes with no trees around.
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Quality Of Materials Used
The quality of aluminum guttering materials used is another top factor. Aluminum coil for gutters comes in different thicknesses or gauges. Heavy duty aluminum gutters (.032) are a lot more durable and last much much longer than gutters made from .027 coil which is cheaper.
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Geographical Location
Certain geographical features, such as homes that are near saltwater or in areas that experience extreme temperature fluctuations, can also help speed up the process of aluminum gutters degrading much faster than average.
2. SIGNS THE GUTTERS NEED TO BE REPLACED:
Below are common signs that indicate the gutters may be approaching replacement soon.
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Gutter Spikes Loose Around The Home
Once gutter spikes start to come loose repeatedly even after nailing them back in, replacement is recommended. Gutter spikes were phased out over twenty years ago. Therefore, any gutter system that still has gutter spikes is likely 20 to 25 years old at minimum.
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Frequent Gutter Issues and/or Repairs
Other constant gutter repair issues such as downspouts coming loose or gutters leaking from seams are also signs that the gutter system is getting old. Sinking more and more money into repairs every couple years will end up being more costly than replacing the gutters when it is time.
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Corrosion and/or Rust On The Gutters
Gutter rust and corrosion on aluminum gutters indicate that the gutters were not installed properly or maintained. Corrosion at the seams prevents sealants from being able to adhere to the aluminum surfaces properly, which prevents sealants from being effective. And gutter rust is irreversible. Once an aluminum gutter begins to rust (or any gutter), it will only get worse and worse.
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Gutters Are Damaged, Bent, Warped, Creased, or Misshapen
Most structural damages to the gutter system are irreversible. The back of the gutter often pulls away from the home when gutters are dented or misshapen, which results in the gutter section needing to be replaced.
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Color Fading, Paint Flaking, Discolorations
The color of aluminum gutters doesn’t typically start to fade or discolor until the gutters are around 15-20 years of age. As they get older they begin to look worse and worse. Therefore, if the gutters look old and dingy, they probably are old and getting close to their time.
3. CONCLUSION:
The average lifespan of modern day aluminum gutters made from .032 aluminum coil is 20-30 years. Well maintained gutters can last even longer in the right conditions. How long aluminum gutters last is directly related to the wear and tear the gutters face. Once they start having repetitive repair issues, it is often more cost efficient to replace the gutters than to sink money into repairing the older gutter system.
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Frederick, MD 21701
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