Having an efficient guttering system is crucial because it protects your home from potential roof damage caused by rainwater. With so many different choices on the market these days however, choosing the right one can be rather confusing.

Metal guttering companies such as Rainclear have become more popular in recent years, so we’ve researched why people are making the changeover.

They’re weather resistant

Metal gutters have a low heat expansion and contraction coefficient. This means that they can expand or contract in relation to the weather conditions far more efficiently than plastic can. Plastic gutters tend to deform permanently under the strain of extreme weather changes whereas metal gutters are much better equipped to cope with the unpredictable weather the UK is often subjected to. Living in the UK our weather is very hard to predict as detailed here by the BBC: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/science-environment-17223307/why-is-british-weather-so-unpredictable

They’re less prone to damage

Metal gutters used to have a bad reputation because traditional iron-cast systems were heavy, prone to rust and had a semi-cylindrical shape which was ineffective at holding or re-directing water. Modern alternatives such as copper, aluminium, zinc, lead and stainless steel have transformed gutter systems however.

They boast a superior tolerance to the elements, they’re much lighter, can be moulded to retain water much more effectively and cast aluminium gutters don’t rust. Another huge benefit of aluminium gutters is that they’re made from one single long piece of aluminium rather than by attaching lots of little pieces together. This creates a seamless system with no joiners which means there’s no chance of leaks occurring.

UV light also causes plastic gutters to become brittle which in time, weakens the brackets and rubber seals which are found at the joints. The result of this UV exposure and thermal movement is a parting of the joints which causes leaks – defeating the entire purpose of gutters. Metal gutters are much stronger than plastic ones and can cope with exposure to UV light far better which means they’re less likely to become damaged.

They’re durable

Metal gutters are incredibly strong and they can withstand even the most extreme elements. Improved moulding technology means that metal gutters are now designed to last and some are made of alloys which are incredibly durable.

Metal gutters these days employ seamless technology which means that the likelihood of joints breaking down and splitting or of screws and bolts eroding and snapping is eliminated. As well as lasting much longer than plastic gutters, it also means that you don’t have to worry about leaks.

When maintained properly, cast iron gutters can last up to 50 years, although some have been known to last over 100. Not only does this mean that you don’t have to worry about their general upkeep, it’s also a far more cost-effective option in the long-run.

They’re easy to maintain

Zinc, stainless steel and copper rainwater systems have the added benefit of un-assembling, which means that you can easily take them apart to clean if necessary. This Youtube video shows how you can do this quickly and easily: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_9WJSzV6fw

What’s more, cast iron gutters require little maintenance, making them a hassle-free option

They can be tailored to your property

Materials such as aluminium can be easily moulded which is ideal for properties which are a bit more awkward. Because this material lends itself to fabrication, it means that you can ensure you have the perfect guttering system for your home.