So, you’ve decided that you need new gutters on your home. But what kind of gutters do you need? If you’ve never had to replace your gutters before, you may not have a clear idea about your choices or how you should think about them. A good gutter contractor will guide you through the gutter selection process, but it’s still a good idea for you to have some knowledge about gutter replacements and the process of choosing new gutters.

What Gutter Shape Do You Need?

One of the important decisions you’ll need to make is the shape of the gutters. There are two basic shapes to choose from: the half-round gutter and the K-style gutter. Both styles’ names are pretty descriptive about what they look like. The half-round gutter looks like a half-round tube. K-style gutters have flat bottoms and backs and a front with a curved shape to them.

Half-round gutters are most commonly seen on older homes. However, k-style gutters can hold more rainwater, so this shape may be a more appropriate choice in places with more rainfall. K-style gutters may also be seen as more attractive, as their front side shape tends to mimic crown molding.

What Gutter Material Do You Need?

Gutters come in a variety of different materials. Some of the most common include vinyl, aluminum, stainless steel, and copper. Aluminum and vinyl are among the least expensive options. However, copper and stainless steel have benefits like longevity and aesthetics.

When deciding on a gutter material, you may want to consider the material of the gutters you’re replacing. If those worked for you, you may want to stick with the same material. However, you don’t have to. If you’re interested in having a variety of colors to choose from, aluminum or vinyl may be good choices. However, homeowners in cold climates should remember that vinyl may crack in low temperatures.

Will You Need Extra Downspouts or Other Add-ons?

The actual gutters aren’t the end of the gutter system. At a minimum, you’ll need downspouts to direct the water down the roof and away from the sides of your house. The placement of these downspouts matters – you want to avoid water damage to your walls, foundation, basement, and landscaping. Depending on your home and property, you may need more downspouts than the number that comes with the gutter system.

There are other add-ons worth considering as well. Gutter heaters melt ice that forms in the winter, preventing ice dams on the roof. Gutter guards prevent debris from getting into the gutter system, saving you the hassle of cleaning your gutters a few times a year or the expense of paying a service to do it. Make sure you explore all your options to make the best choice for your home.

If you’re ready for a new gutter system, Lednor Home Solutions is a trustworthy company that’s been working with roofs and gutters like yours for decades. They have the knowledge, experience, and skills to help you get the gutter system you need when you need it. Schedule a free estimate.