Options for Traditional Gutters

You have many options for traditional gutters.cleaning gutters image by palms from Fotolia.com

Many homeowners don't find traditional gutters visually appealing. Unfortunately gutters are a necessity for homes. If you find you don't like the way your gutters look on your home or that they aren't working they should be, you can choose some options to use in conjunction with your traditional gutters or to change the look.

Install a Closed System

Many manufacturers offer what is called a closed system. This system goes over the top of traditional gutters. It only allows water and small particles to enter the gutter so they no longer become clogged. Cleaning gutters is one of the main complaints from homeowners, so a closed system will easily solve this dilemma. These systems have filters which are usually self-cleaning so that they don't become clogged with debris.

Vinyl gutters, sometimes referred to as plastic gutters, are stronger than they appear and can withstand extreme temperatures. One concern some homeowners have is that they may weather faster than aluminum gutters, fading over time or turning a yellowish color. These gutters may also be more costly than traditional aluminum gutters and it may be difficult to find an installer who likes to work with them, but if you're handy, you can install them yourself.

Aluminum gutters have been around the longest. These gutters are traditionally strong and are known to last many years. Though they are made out of a tough material, they can become worn and bent over time. They are also paintable and you can recondition them by painting or touching them up. Most gutter installers will have no problem installing aluminum gutters on your home and this may be the most inexpensive way to go if you're trying to save money.