Most standard gutter systems have sufficient functionality, but for a longer term investment that will keep your home looking beautiful for many years to come, there is no better choice than copper gutters.
Copper gutters have an eye-catching finish that adds flair and overall beauty to the exterior of a home. And if maintained properly, copper gutters can last up to 80 years without needing to be replaced or repaired. Copper gutters are an excellent choice for many reasons. Here are the best attributes:
Copper Gutters are Extremely Durable
Copper is resistant to corrosion in most types of weather, and it can also endure extreme temperature changes. Copper gutters typically last from 50 to 80 years. The use of copper can be traced back to Roman times BC, when it was used as a roofing material on the Pantheon.
Copper is an extremely long-lasting metal. A copper gutter system will likely last for the life of your home and might be the last gutter system you will ever need to install. Most other materials rust or corrode much more quickly.
Copper Gutters are Low-Maintenance
Cleaning gutters of collected debris is always necessary. However, copper has naturally-occurring algaecide and fungicide properties, making it resistant to moss, fungus, and other growth. In addition to being visually pleasing, the patina finish that naturally occurs over time on copper acts as a protectant. Copper gutters may collect loose debris like leaves and sticks brought in by wind, but they will not be subject to mold, fungus, or plant growth.
Also, unlike other gutter materials, copper is not susceptible to underside corrosion. It is easily the most trouble-free material to use for gutters and downspouts. This also makes copper a desirable choice.
With copper, you can install and enjoy low maintenance for many years to come. You will still need to do some basic maintenance to ensure drainpipes do not clog, but copper gutters do not need the kind of maintenance that many other gutter systems require.
Copper Gutters are Beautiful
Gutters are mostly utilitarian. Copper gutters, however, add classic beauty to a home. Copper gutters weather to an attractive patina over time, but they do not rust, crack or wear nearly as fast as other gutter materials do.
Weathering gives copper an interesting patina look over time, lending rustic charm to vintage and upscale homes. However, if you prefer the look of copper, you can opt to protect your copper gutters with a sealant that will prevent a patina from developing. Either way, copper adds sophistication and elegance to a home, as well as increasing its curb appeal.
Copper Gutters are Sustainable
Copper is produced naturally, making it one of the few fully sustainable metals. You can safely use copper without detriment to the environment. It is also not a depleting precious resource. To date, it is estimated that only a little more than 10 percent of the world’s copper reserves have been mined.
Copper is a recyclable material that can be recycled repeatedly, which is another advantage to the use of copper. Other metal materials break down and weaken over time. Compared to other metals, the recycling value of copper is much higher These days, many copper gutters are made from copper that has been partially recycled, making the material eco-friendly and safe to use in almost any climate.
Copper Gutters are Long-Lasting
Copper gutters have a life expectancy of over 80 years and can be fitted using continuous straight runs, without the need for expansion joints. The thermal expansion of copper does not cause buckling or cracking issues that can occur with aluminum gutters. This means that the life span of copper gutters is much higher and the maintenance they will require is greatly reduced. This makes copper a very cost-effective choice after the initial investment.
Copper Gutters Can Increase Your Home’s Value
The gutter system you choose for your home has a significant impact on its value and appearance. Because copper gutters last from 80 to 100 years, they will likely be servicing your home’s structure long after you have moved from the home. The new homeowner will likely not have to deal with gutter replacement, making copper gutters a very desirable feature at resale.
Copper gutters cost more to install, but the benefits outlined above, along with the fact that they likely will never need to be replaced again as long as you live in the home (they can last up to 80 years) make them well worth the investment.
If you are considering copper gutters, please call The Gutter Specialist at (860) 876-2227. We have extensive experience in copper gutter installations.
