Gutter Types for Homes in Ogden & Northern UT

Gutters are a part of the house that doesn’t get much attention, and not everyone understands how important they are. In fact, they are one of the most crucial elements for protecting your home from structural damage. How can that be? The gutters are the first line of defense against water getting into your home, and without them, you could end up with foundation damage, rotted fascia and soffit, a flooded basement, and much more. Of course, it’s not enough to choose just any gutter. Finding the right type of gutter for your home makes all the difference in protecting it from harm and damage.

Location Matters: the Best Gutters for Northern Utah Aren’t the Same as for South Florida

If you live in Utah, you know the weather can be extremely unpredictable. We can go from clear skies to snow and hail or a summer thunderstorm very quickly, and having the right gutters can make all the difference for your home. It is important to note, however, that gutters should be chosen based on where they will be used. If you were buying gutters for a home in the Southeast, you’d need them to withstand hurricanes. When you are choosing the best gutters for Northern Utah, you will need to look for gutters that are durable and functional, able to stand up to snow and hail, and capable of holding a large volume of water, directing it properly away from your home. The gutters need to stand up to a wide range of conditions, from snow to heavy rain to intense heat, so it is important to do your research before buying them.

Gutter Materials Comparison

Gutters can be made of a wide range of materials. When they first came into use, gutters were typically made of wood. Obviously, wood’s tendency to rot because of prolonged exposure to water made this a flawed option, and today you will probably only see wood gutters on very old, historic homes. The most common materials used for gutters now are vinyl, aluminum, steel, and copper.

• Vinyl: This is an inexpensive, low maintenance option that comes in many colors and doesn’t rust. Unfortunately, it is not very durable, can crack in extreme heat, and is prone to leaks at the seams.
• Aluminum: Durable, inexpensive, and long lasting, aluminum is rust resistant, leak resistant, and doesn’t need to be painted. However, it is prone to denting, can be damaged in hailstorms, and may expand and contract in extreme heat.
• Steel: These gutters are long lasting and durable enough to stand up to heavy snow, wind, and rain, and are rust resistant. The drawbacks are that steel is fairly expensive and requires ongoing care and maintenance.
• Copper: Durable, with a long lifespan, these gutters develop a gorgeous patina over the years. It requires very little maintenance, prevents mold and mildew, and is rust resistant. It should be noted, though, that copper is the most expensive gutter material.

Common Rain Gutter Options for Homes

There are some other factors to consider, aside from the material from which your gutters are made. There are different shapes, and different sizes, and these play a role in both functionality and the look of the house. For most homes, with standard pitch roofs, five-inch gutters are the right size. However, if your roof has a large surface area or is very steep, you may be better off with six-inch gutters. As far as shape goes, the shape you choose will be based on your personal aesthetic, your home style, and the amount of water that comes from your roof. There are many different styles, but the most common are K style and half round. Most homeowners in Northern Utah prefer K-style, which is decorative and looks a little bit like crown molding. The aesthetics are not the only thing to recommend them, though. They have a flat back and bottom, so they attach more easily to the fascia, and they have a deep trough that can handle heavy water flow. Half round gutters are good for homes with a classical look, and they are very attractive, shaped like a half circle. They are extremely functional, even though they don’t hold as much water as K-style, and their advantage is that they have less backup and corrosion because they are smooth inside.

Choosing Metal Gutters: Aluminum vs Steel Gutters

If you decide on a metal gutter, what kind of metal do you need?  For most people, copper is cost-prohibitive, so it typically comes down to a choice between aluminum and steel. Steel is more durable, but also more expensive. Aluminum is not expensive, but it may dent. Aluminum comes in a variety of colors, and there are not as many options with steel gutters. Essentially, either of these materials is a good option, and it comes down to personal preference and how much you will need them to withstand. The best bet is to talk to a professional installer, have a consultation at your home, and get recommendations for the best material for your particular situation.

Hiring a Pro Means Seamless Gutter Installation

If you are someone who strongly believes in doing work on your home by yourself, we respect that. It should be noted, though, that gutter installation can be complicated. If you are someone who strongly believes in doing work on your home by yourself, we respect that. It should be noted, though, that gutter installation can be complicated. Once you have chosen the right type, size, material, and aesthetic for your gutters, installation can begin. Downspouts and extensions must be precisely placed, in order to direct water safely away from your foundation. Further, the system has to have exactly the right pitch, so that the water flows efficiently through it.

When You Are Seeking the Best Gutter Types for Homes in Layton, UT, Skabelund Can Help

At Skabelund Roofing, we are a business with generations of experience and a commitment to quality craftsmanship. Our founded, Martin Skabelund, learned roofing from his father, and our clients reap the benefit of his vast knowledge. For over 30 years, we’ve provided high-quality roofs to homes and businesses in the Cache Valley, and our team of licensed roofers is one of the best in the industry. Experts in all areas of residential and commercial roofing, we have received an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. We train each new team member to approach roofing as an art, and we help them to master their craft, because we understand that roofing is a trade best learned from practice. For gutter, our affiliate company, Heritage Rain Gutters, delivers the same quality work, adhering to the same high standards you would expect from Skabelund. We’re proud to serve the residents of the Cache Valley, so whether you live in Layton, Nibley, South Jordan, West Jordan, Cottonwood Heights, Washington Terrace, or Logan, UT,  contact us for more information about how we can improve the look and function of your home.