How Long Do Copper Gutters Last?

Gutters are an essential part of any home design. They drain water from the roof and direct it away from the foundation of the building, preventing costly water damage.

The most common materials used for gutters are vinyl, aluminum, steel, and copper. The material and gutter style that you choose depends upon your home design, location, and your aesthetic preferences. However, there are certain advantages to choosing copper, such as superior durability and longevity. Find out more about the costs and benefits of copper gutters for your home.

Longevity of Copper Gutters

When copper gutters are installed and maintained properly, they can last for 60 to 90 years, or even longer. Your copper gutters will likely last your entire lifetime. In comparison, vinyl gutters normally need to be replaced every 10 years. Steel or aluminum generally lasts for around 20 years.

Part of the reason that copper gutters last for so long is because of the naturally-occurring blue-green patina they develop over time. Your copper gutters may tarnish, but they will never rust. Many homeowners love the look of aged copper and believe that it just gets more beautiful over time. Copper will begin to develop a darker brown hue that further develops into the blue-green tone that many associate with copper. This is caused by the copper’s exposure to oxygen and pollutants in the air. The patina essentially protects the copper from corrosion and helps it to last for decades longer than other gutter materials.

Additional Benefits

Copper gutters are great for traditional and historic homes. They match any type of roofing, although they look exceptionally gorgeous when paired with slate. These gutters are gorgeous whether they are new or aged, and can increase the curb appeal of your home.

Another great reason to choose copper gutters is that they are very eco-friendly. Copper is a coveted material. It is rarely discarded. Instead, it is generally repurposed and salvaged from landfills. If you are concerned about your environmental impact, then copper is a wonderful choice.

Types and Styles

There are several types of copper gutters that you can choose from. First, you can choose from half-round or K-style. Half-round gutters are simple and usually don’t contain any elaborations. K-style has more details and decorative elements.
There are both seamed or seamless gutters. While seamless gutters still have seams, they are nearly invisible to the eye. Clarksville seamless gutters cost a little more to purchase but require less work to install. The cost of seamed gutters is lower, but they are much more labor-intensive to install and care for. Speak with your contractor to get advice on the best styles to suit your home and your needs.

Care and Maintenance

You must hire a skilled and experienced contractor to install your copper gutters. Improper installation can drastically shorten the lifespan of your gutters. Copper is known to expand and contract when it is exposed to extreme heat or cold. A knowledgeable contractor will understand how to work with the material and install expansion joints to compensate for this occurrence.

Once the gutters are installed, there are certain things you should do to take care of them and expand their longevity:

• Clean your gutters twice per year to prevent clogs and leaks.
• Use plastic tools instead of metal to avoid scratching the gutters.
• Never lean a ladder against the gutters as this can cause damage.
• Avoid using bleach or abrasive chemicals if your power wash your home.
• You may choose to apply a sealant and polish your copper gutters each year to keep the shine and original color.

The copper material generally requires less maintenance than other types of gutters, so the time and energy you will need to spend on maintenance are minimal.

Cost of Clarksville Copper Gutters

Tennessee and Kentucky homeowners spend between $20 to $30 per foot for most installations. Complex and difficult installs run upwards of $45 per linear foot. The average home uses 200 linear feet of gutter, translating into a total cost of $4,000 to $9,000.

While it’s true that copper gutters cost more than other materials, you can save money over time due to their longevity and low cost of maintenance.

If you have noticed that your old gutters are looking worse for wear and require an upgrade, or you would like to add some unique style to your home, consider choosing copper gutters. Your home will have a timeless look that will look gorgeous for decades.