Vinyl gutters are solid, low-cost alternatives to expensive metals like steel and copper. Learn what makes up the total project cost for installing them—and where you can save.
Vinyl vs. Aluminum Gutters: Pros, Cons, and Costs
Rain or shine: which gutter wins?
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Vinyl gutters snap together easily for DIY installation, while aluminum gutters provide superior durability and weather resistance for your home's long-term protection.
Vinyl gutters cost $3 to $7 per linear foot, while aluminum gutters cost $7 to $12 per linear foot for materials.
Aluminum gutters resist cracking and warping better than vinyl, so your gutters maintain their strength through extreme temperatures and heavy rainfall.
Hiring a local gutter installation professional keeps your seamless gutter setup smooth and helps you choose the right material for your climate.
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Choosing durable gutters keeps your home safe from potential water damage. But which material is best? Many homeowners narrow down their options to vinyl gutters or aluminum gutters. Both can be on the lower end of the budget, but each has qualities that are suitable for your needs. Learn which gutter material is best for your home.
What Types of Gutter Problems Do Homeowners Report?
According to data from Angi customers, about 26% of homeowners say their gutters are sagging or coming loose. Some homeowners face other damage, with 6% saying their gutters are dented and more than 3% noticing a hole. Choosing a more durable gutter option up front can help reduce these kinds of issues over time.
Vinyl vs. Aluminum Gutters: Key Differences
Photo: Lex20 / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images, sommersby / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
Vinyl and aluminum gutters are drainage systems installed along roof edges to channel rainwater away from homes. Vinyl gutters are lightweight, affordable, and rust-resistant but are prone to cracking in extreme weather. Aluminum gutters are a more durable option, boasting weather resistance, however, they are prone to dents. Vinyl is a lower-cost option at $3 to $7 per linear foot, while aluminum gutters cost $7 to $12 per linear foot.
What Are Vinyl Gutters?
Photo: Ratchet / iStock / Getty Images
Vinyl gutters are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and are available in various styles and colors to match different architectural designs. Sold in sections, they're assembled using connectors and sealants to form a continuous drainage system.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable | Prone to cracking |
| Easy to install | Prone to warping or fading |
| Rust-proof | Not ideal for extreme weather |
| Wide color and style availability | Joints and seams may weaken |
| Low maintenance | Less durable than aluminum |
Best for:
Budget-conscious homeowners
DIY projects
Homeowners seeking a low-maintenance option
Pros of Vinyl Gutters
Vinyl gutters are a budget-friendly option for homeowners. Their lightweight design makes them easy to handle and install, which is great if you plan to DIY the job. The snap-together design also simplifies installation and ensures a clean, polished look.
Since they're made from PVC, vinyl gutters are naturally resistant to rust and corrosion, making them an excellent choice for homes in humid climates. Vinyl gutters won't rot, rust, or attract pests, which helps preserve their appearance and functionality. Available in various colors and styles, vinyl gutters can complement different home exteriors without repainting.
Cons of Vinyl Gutters
One of the biggest concerns about vinyl gutters is their durability, as the material can become brittle and crack in extremely cold temperatures. Unlike aluminum gutters, vinyl isn't equipped to handle heavy rainfall or extreme weather conditions, so it's less suitable in areas with severe climates. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can also cause warping and fading.
Another downside of vinyl gutters is their structural weakness compared to aluminum. They're prone to sagging if they have heavy debris buildup or aren't installed properly. The seams and joints in vinyl gutter systems are prone to weakening, leading to leaks and frequent repairs. Vinyl gutters have a shorter lifespan than aluminum and require replacement more often.
What Are Aluminum Gutters?
Photo: db_beyer / iStock / Getty Images
Made from corrosion-resistant aluminum, this gutter material is a lightweight, metal drainage system. These gutters come in seamless and sectional options, with different gutter sizes and color options to meet architectural home styles. Aluminum gutters can be coated with a baked-on enamel finish, which helps maintain their appearance and longevity without requiring additional treatments.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable | Prone to dents |
| Weather-resistant | More expensive than vinyl |
| Lightweight but maintain strength | Requires professional installation |
| Customizable | Potential for corrosion |
| Available in seamless designs | Can expand and contract |
Best for:
Homeowners seeking a durable option
Areas with heavy rainfall and extreme hot or cold temperatures
Customizing specific home designs
Pros of Aluminum Gutters
Aluminum gutters are a durable option for homeowners due to their natural resistance to rust and corrosion. While lightweight, aluminum gutters are strong enough to handle heavy rainfall without sagging or breaking. Their weather-resistant properties make them suitable for both hot and cold climates, as they won’t warp, crack, or become brittle.
The material is available in seamless designs, which reduce the risk of leaks and provide a cleaner, more polished look for your home’s exterior. Another major advantage of aluminum gutters is their versatility and customization options to achieve a cohesive exterior design.
Cons of Aluminum Gutters
While aluminum gutters boast durability, the material is susceptible to dents. Unlike heavier metals, aluminum can be easily damaged by falling branches, ladders, or other heavy impact.
While aluminum gutters are more affordable than premium options like copper or wood, they're more expensive than vinyl. The average aluminum gutter installation cost ranges between $7 and $12 per linear foot. Another cost factor is installation, as aluminum gutters require professional installation by a gutter pro near you.
Aluminum gutters can react negatively to temperature fluctuations, expanding and contracting with extreme temperature changes. This can cause fasteners to loosen, leading to possible leaks or misalignment. While aluminum is rust-resistant, it can still corrode if the protective coating is damaged, especially in coastal areas with high salt exposure.
Aluminum vs. Vinyl Gutters
Here’s how these two gutter materials compare in terms of appearance, customization, price, and more.
Appearance: Aluminum
Aluminum gutters have a more polished and professional look. They come with a baked-on enamel finish that resists fading and wear, whereas vinyl gutters can become discolored or warped over time, diminishing their appearance.
Options and Customizations: Aluminum
Aluminum gutters offer more customization options for size, style, and color. They can even be painted to match a home’s exterior. Vinyl gutters, while available in various colors, aren’t as aesthetically versatile, and their sectioned design limits customization compared to seamless aluminum gutters.
Durability: Aluminum
Aluminum gutters are more durable than vinyl gutters because they withstand extreme temperatures without cracking or warping. They can handle heavy rainfall and last longer with proper maintenance. Vinyl gutters can become brittle in cold weather and warp under prolonged sun exposure, requiring replacement.
Price: Vinyl
Vinyl gutters are a more budget-friendly option than aluminum. Gutter replacement cost for vinyl ranges between $3 and $7 per linear foot while aluminum gutters cost between $7 and $12 per linear foot. While aluminum gutters provide better longevity, their higher upfront cost may not fit every budget.
Ease of DIYability: Vinyl
Vinyl gutters are the easier option for DIYers, as they're lightweight and designed for simple snap-together installation. Repairs are also more manageable since damaged sections can be easily replaced. Aluminum gutters, especially seamless gutters versus regular gutters, require professional installation and can be harder to repair if dented or bent.
Maintenance: Aluminum
Aluminum gutters require less maintenance because they do not crack or warp like vinyl. They resist weather damage better and maintain their structural integrity longer. While rust-proof, vinyl gutters can weaken at the joints and become brittle.
Resale Value: Aluminum
Aluminum gutters provide better long-term value and curb appeal for a smarter investment. Their durability, customization options, and ability to maintain appearance contribute to higher resale value. Vinyl gutters, while affordable upfront, have a shorter lifespan and may not enhance a home’s value.
Gutter repairs and replacements reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
5.0★ avg. • 19 total reviews
- Julio V.
Positive experience. As previously stated, the replacement/repair could not be completed (no fault of the plumbing tech) b/c misinformation was rec?d by property management maintenance. Thanks to the plumbing tech for your efforts. Appreciate you!
The Waterworks - Brent C.
Carpet repair done well. Scheduling was easy. Showed up on time.
BR Flooring Installation - Adam E.
Cole has been handling plumbing and general contracting for our four properties over the past three years, and he’s always done a great job. Most recently, he installed a sink and countertop in our retail store where none existed before, and it turned out exactly how we needed. He’s...
ANB Renovations LLC - Emily W.
I am highly satisfied with the window replacement service I received; the professionals from Savvy Exteriors were punctual and did an amazing job that exceeded my expectations.
Savvy Exteriors - Austin Y.
I would recommend this company to anyone! He showed up on time, was friendly, completed a very difficult repair on our dryer vent cover, was responsive, and pricing was extremely fair and competitive. I would have him back to do any of our repairs or cleanings without hesitation!
U.S.A. Dryer Vent, LLC - Micki B.
Everything from initial contact to completion was absolutely top notch. We contacted the business during off hours to leave a message, and the owner still reached out to feel out the issue within minutes. We were scheduled and repaired within 48 hours. I cannot say enough about the...
Supreme brick & chimney - Donald L.
Ace Fireplace Services came to the rescue for my chimney repair. They were quick to pinpoint the issue and worked their magic to fix it. My chimney is now in excellent shape, and I'm a satisfied customer.
Ace Fireplace Services - Lisa S.
On Sunday 2/26 I requested quotes via Angi from 4 refrigerator repair businesses. Northwest Appliance responded to me Monday morning (2/27) and my refrigerator was repaired by noon the same day. Great communication, they did everything they said they would. The technician had the parts on...
- Angie M.
When we had the winter freeze, I called Quantum Waterworks Waterline & Drain Cleaning Services and within 1 hour I received an e-mail and he sent someone out the next day and he was on time, he was nice and did the job quickly and cleaned up after himself. We had a leak in our kitchen from...
Quantum Waterworks Waterline & Drain Cleaning Services, LLC - Jessica F.
Window depot replaced all 14 windows in my house, front door and added a new back door. They did a wonderful job with some tricky windows in this old house. They were quick but efficient and cleaned up everything inside and out. I have already passed their contact information on to my...
Window Depot USA of Central Ohio
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