Gutters are an essential part of any home's exterior, especially in Vancouver, Washington. They protect your foundation, walls, and landscape from water damage by directing rainwater away from your home. While most gutters are made of aluminum, steel, or vinyl, some homeowners opt for the more expensive copper gutters. But are they worth the investment? In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of copper gutters to help you make an informed decision.
Pros of Copper Gutters
Durability: Copper is a highly durable material that can last for decades without needing replacement. Unlike other materials that may rust, corrode or degrade over time, copper is resistant to weathering and holds up well against harsh outdoor conditions.
Aesthetics: Copper gutters have a distinct look that adds elegance and sophistication to your home's exterior. The natural patina that develops over time gives them a unique and attractive appearance. Some disagree with that statement as beauty is purely subjective.
Low Maintenance: Due to their durability, copper gutters require minimal maintenance compared to other materials. They do not need regular cleaning or painting and only require occasional inspection to ensure they are functioning correctly and to clean them of all their debris.
Cons of Copper Gutters
Cost: Copper gutters are significantly more expensive than other gutter materials such as aluminum or steel. On average, copper gutters cost five times more than their counterparts.
Installation: Installing copper gutters requires specialized skills due to their weight and fragility. This means that installation costs can be higher than those for other types of gutters.
Theft Risk: Copper has high resale value making it an attractive target for thieves who may steal your gutter system or parts thereof.
Matching: For the same reason a lot of people in suburban neighborhoods decide to install standard roofing products instead of something fancy like a metal roof is because your house will stand out like a sore thumb. While you may enjoy that, your neighbors most likely won't. Many HOA's or CC&R's prevent installing copper gutters.
Conclusion
While copper gutters offer several benefits such as durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance requirements, they come at a steep price tag that may not be justifiable for most homeowners. Unless you have a specific desire for the unique look of copper gutters and don't mind paying 4 times more than other materials' average cost - it's probably best to stick with less expensive options like aluminum.
In conclusion, before making any significant investment in gutter systems, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully while keeping in mind your budget constraints and needs as a homeowner. If you're still interested in copper gutters in Vancouver, WA, give Matador Exteriors a call.