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  Aluminum, Copper, Stainless Steel-What do they mean? Which one do I choose? Believe it or not, when it comes to gutters, you have many choices to make. Color and style are the easy part, but choosing the material can be daunting. Here is the low-down on the materials, description and a brief explanation of them:
Continuous Aluminum Gutters- Considered the most common product used today, this gutter holds more water than traditional wood gutters. Although this type is generally recommended, one disadvantage of this material is that they may deform when a heavy ladder is leaned up against them. This can be easily avoided by careful use of ladders.
When buying any metal gutter, be sure to choose the thickest that you can afford. Insist on primary aluminum, which is the thickest and consistent. Your other choice is secondary aluminum, which is a recycled product and can have inconsistencies in thickness.
Steel Gutters- Most homeowners choose these types of gutters. Galvanized steel gutters tend to be the most economical. Although steel gutters prove to be more durable and can withstand ladders and fallen branches, even galvanized steel can eventually rust through. Stainless steel gutters are strong, rust-free and can maintain their high sheen for years. As they say, " you get what you pay for" and for this type of gutter, that is definitely true.
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