These days, gutters are available in a wide variety of materials. However, when it comes to metal gutters, two materials reign supreme: copper and aluminum.

The question is: which should you choose? What are the pros and cons of each? We're going to dive into that question below, helping you make the perfect choice for your home maintenance efforts.

Without further ado, here's a comparison of copper vs aluminum gutters.

The Pros of Copper Gutters

There are quite a few pros associated with copper gutters. The biggest of these pros is their aesthetics. Copper gutters possess a high-end look that's regarded to be much more luxurious than aluminum.

In addition, copper gutters are rust-free. Because of this, they can last well over 50 years without a replacement. They far outpace aluminum gutters in this department as well.

The Cons of Copper Gutters

One of the biggest cons of copper gutters is their price. Copper gutters generally have to be custom-made, as they need to form fit to their respective homes. Because of this, and because copper is a more expensive material in general, copper gutters end up being much more expensive than aluminum ones.

And you can't cut corners when installing copper gutters. For instance, you can't fasten them with non-copper bolts. Doing so could cause them to corrode.

This only drives up the price of copper gutters more. So, while you will get excellent durability from them, you'll have to pay an increased price for that durability.

The Pros of Aluminum Gutters

Aluminum gutters are the most popular gutters on the market. The reason? They offer good durability and reasonable aesthetics at an affordable price.

Aluminum gutters are available in a wide variety of colors, something you can't say about copper gutters. In addition, they're quite lightweight and therefore work with every home in existence.

Because they're mass-manufactured and pieced together, and because aluminum is a generally affordable material, aluminum gutters cost much less than copper gutters.

The Cons of Aluminum Gutters

Aluminum gutters don't last as long as copper gutters. Whereas copper gutters regularly last for over 50 years, aluminum gutters tend to give in within 30 years. This is because they're much more prone to rusting.

In addition, aluminum gutters don't tend to have that "high-end" aesthetic that copper gutters have. This isn't to say that they look bad (they don't). They just lack some of the luxuriousness of copper gutter systems.

Copper vs Aluminum Gutters: Both Are Great Gutter Options

When it comes to the subject of copper vs aluminum gutters, it's important to note that both are excellent types of gutters. If you want something a little cheaper, aluminum is the way to go. If you want something with a high-end aesthetic, copper has you covered.

Looking to install new gutters in St. Charles, Missouri? If so, Signature Exteriors is the company to call. We've installed new gutters on countless St. Charles area homes and can do the same for your home.