Aluminum or vinyl gutters?

Question

Hi all,

I need to have gutters replaced, question is to use either aluminum or vinyl?  I have a handyman who is charging $9.50 material (al) and labor which I'm guessing is closer to the higher end?  Also if anyone can recommend an installer in north Metro Atlanta, I'd greatly appreciate it!

Thanks so much!

Marc M. · Answer

I always use 5" or 6" gutters and large 3"x4" downspouts for the reasons mentioned above.  I also install cleanouts if I'm routing piping underground in the event of a blockage.  PVC or nothing, don't use that cheap flexible stuff since it's darn near impossible to snake if the time ever comes.

Jay Y. · Answer

Thanks everyone for the input!  I've decided to go with the aluminum seamless gutters, although the guy quoted 4 inches which may be a little small?  I'll ask if he can use 5 inches instead.

Dan Perrott · Answer

@jay - Use aluminum seamless gutters.  In the long term, they will outlast the vinyl and are more appealing.  There are always plenty of private installers with reasonable prices.  Try to get the larger trough and downspouts.  Will have far less issues in maintenance (cleanout, clogs, etc).

Pat L. · Answer

We have the seamless Al made on site for about $2/lin ft then have our guys put them up. I prefer the wider troughs. Meanwhile we are tearing down the sagging vinyl junk that was there before.

Larry P. · Answer

No vinyl.  Aluminum seamless. A good gutter company should have the equipment to make them on site to fit the home and should cost less than if you tried buying the materials at the big box store and doing it yourself.