Most homeowners spend little time thinking about their gutters—until they deteriorate enough to need replacement. Even during a new gutter installation project, homeowners will usually pick the type of gutters offered by their contractors. But it can pay to be choosy about your gutter systems.

If you pick out a gutter system that is strong, resilient, and boasts a long lifespan, you can avoid repairs and replacement in the future. With just a little research, you can find out about the strengths and weaknesses of different gutters, as well as how long you can expect them to last on average. 

How Long Do Different Types of Gutters Last?

The lifespan of your gutter system depends greatly on what type of material it is made of and the varying demands placed on each component. For instance, the average gutter system lasts about 20 years, but gutter downspouts last up to 30 years because they do a little less of the heavy lifting.

So, it’s especially important to consider the material that you want to use for new gutters as it can affect their longevity. We have put together a list of some common gutter materials and their average lifespan:

  • Aluminum: An extremely popular material for gutters because it is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and affordable. Aluminum gutters last about 20 years.
  • Copper: A high-end metal that starts off a bright golden-brown color and slowly develops an attractive green patina, copper gutters can last up to 50 years.
  • Zinc: A gray metal, zinc is highly resilient to corrosion and makes for long-lasting gutters with a lifespan of up to 50 years.
  • Steel: A more affordable metal that is also extraordinarily strong, steel gutters last between 10 and 20 years. They can be prone to rust if damaged or clogged.
  • Wood: You can still find wood gutters, which add a beautiful, traditional look to your home. Well-maintained wood gutters can last up to 25 years.
  • Vinyl: Plastic gutters are another option that’s popular for their light weight, strength, and resistance to insects, corrosion, and freezing. Vinyl gutters can last about 20 years.

Learn More About Our Gutters Replacement Systems

At Gutter Up, we offer a selection of materials for gutter replacement, including seamless aluminum gutters. If you are thinking about getting new gutters installed, reach out to us about setting up a consultation. One of our contractors can go over the options with you and provide a free cost estimate for gutter replacement. 

Just give us a call or fill out our online form to begin today.