Things to consider when choosing gutters & downspouts:

1. Custom made. An advantage of aluminum gutters is that they can be made to an exact size to fit your house. The gutter-making machine is right on the truck, ready to transform aluminum sheet material into a finished gutter profile. Because older gutters & downspouts can be difficult and costly to repair, many homeowners elect to replace old with new. Gutter and downspout choices are more varied today than ever before. The major decisions are explained below:
2. Materials: Historically, gutters have been made from many different materials, including wood, steel, copper and seamless aluminum gutters. Aluminum gutters are most popular today because of their affordability, durability and color variety. However, some historic homes may deserve steel, copper gutters or even wood gutters to maintain their authentic appearance.
3. Color: If you want gutters in a color that matches your house, aluminum is your best choice. Most gutter specialists have access to aluminum gutter stock that can be ordered with factory-applied finishes of different hues.
4. Style: Different gutter “profiles” are available. Aluminum gutters are often formed in a “K” profile that includes a flat back section and a curved front. Half-round gutters can sometimes be found on older houses.
5. Size: K-style gutters come in 5-in. and 6-in. sizes. The larger size is usually specified when the roof area being drained is especially large and/or steep. An experienced gutter installer will be able to determine which size is best for your house.
6. Gutter guards: This popular gutter add-on prevents gutters from clogging and overflowing – a smart addition to any gutter installation.