Most people don’t give much thought to their gutters. They’re just those things on the edge of your roof that collect rainwater and funnel it away from your home, right? Well, yes – but they can also be so much more than that. If you’re in the market for new gutters you may want to consider upgrading to zinc material. Here’s what you need to know about this increasingly popular gutter material.
What are Zinc Gutters?
They are made of a material called zinc alloy, which is a combination of other metals like aluminum, copper, and magnesium. They are incredibly strong and durable – much more so than traditional aluminum gutters. In fact the material can last up to 4 times longer than aluminum gutters.
The use of lead for manufacturing gutters continued throughout Europe until the early 20th century when it was replaced by zinc due to concerns about lead poisoning. Zinc is similar to lead in that it is corrosion-resistant and easy to work with. However, zinc is stronger than lead and does not leach toxins into the environment, making it a safer choice for both manufacturers and consumers.
What are the Benefits?
In addition to being more durable, the material is also more attractive than traditional aluminum gutters. Zinc alloy gutters come in a variety of colors, so you can find an option that complements your home’s exterior perfectly. And because they’re made of metal, they won’t sag or warp over time like vinyl or plastic gutters can.
Worth the Extra Cost?
Zinc alloy gutters cost more than traditional aluminum gutters, but they’re definitely worth the extra investment. Not only will they last much longer, but they’ll also add to the curb appeal of your home. If you’re planning on selling your home in the future, zinc gutters can be a great selling point.
How Much More Expensive?
Zinc alloy gutters typically cost between $20 and $30 per linear foot installed, compared to $5 to $15 per linear foot for aluminum material. So for a 2,000 square foot home with 150 feet of gutter installed, you can expect to pay between $6,000 and $9,000 for zinc gutters – about double the cost of traditional aluminum material.
Upgrading your home is definitely an investment – but it’s one that will pay off in the long run thanks to their increased durability and curb appeal. If you’re thinking about selling your home in the future, zinc alloys can also be a big selling point for prospective buyers. So if you’re in the market for new gutters, don’t write off zinc alloys without considering them first!
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