Copper gutters have adorned homes and buildings for centuries because they’re among the most elegant and long-lasting gutter types money can buy. They can last 50 years or more and add an element to curb appeal no other material can match.
As one of the oldest gutter types available, homeowners appreciate copper’s old-world appeal, longevity, and ability to patina as the copper oxidizes. Copper gutters are also considered an upgrade to standard aluminum, vinyl, or galvanized steel gutters, so their return on investment tends to be high.
However, copper gutters can be more expensive than other options and require special cleaning techniques to avoid damage. They are generally considered an investment in a home, just like the roof or HVAC system, so it’s essential to understand their benefits and drawbacks before adding them to your home.
We’ll dive deeper into what copper gutters are, their cost, and how they compare to other gutter materials. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of owning copper gutters and offer tips for choosing and installing them on your home.
What Are Copper Gutters?
A copper gutter is a water collection channel made from copper or a copper alloy, along with the accessories and fasteners used to assemble the system. A copper gutter system facilitates water runoff away from the roofing system and home to help prevent overflowing and water damage.
All components used in a copper guttering system will be made from the same materials, such as the downspouts and mounting straps, making the materials recyclable.
The cost of copper gutters can be an obstacle for those on a limited budget. Copper gutters will often cost at least two times more than an aluminum gutter system of the same size. Copper also requires special care, especially for installation and cleaning.
Copper gutters differ from other metal gutters in that they are incredibly resistant to water damage, beautiful, and eco-friendly. They are also recyclable, and since they last so long, they prevent worn-out gutters from ending up in a landfill.
However, copper gutters are less prevalent in modern construction due to the emergence of aluminum, their higher cost, and their reliance on quality installation for maximum performance. Today, you’ll most often find copper gutters on historic properties, churches, and luxury homes.
Pros and Cons of Copper Gutters
If we compare copper gutters vs. aluminum gutters on elements like uniqueness and elegance, copper gutters will usually win. But, if you compare copper gutters vs. steel gutters on strength and ability to carry lots of water, steel gutters will come out ahead.
One reason why copper gutters are considered an upgrade is that no two systems are identical if the copper is allowed to oxidize. The resulting patina color is not a degradation of the copper but a protective coating that prevents additional wear to the surface over time.
Before choosing copper gutters, first ask yourself, “What is a copper gutter going to bring to my home?” Looking at some of the pros and cons of owning copper gutters should help you discover the answers:
Pros:
- More durable and long-lasting than aluminum or steel
- Withstands harsh weather conditions, resists corrosion and rust, and lasts for up to 100 years with proper care
- More elegant and unique, as you can retain the natural shine, or patina, that enhances the curb appeal and value of the home
- Eco-friendly and recyclable, as they are made of natural materials that can be reused or repurposed
Cons:
- More expensive than other types of gutters to both purchase and install
- More complex maintenance, as they require special tools, skills, and care to prevent damage during cleaning
- May be more prone to expansion and contraction, as temperature changes may cause gaps, and trapped water may freeze and expand, potentially causing a crack or overflow
Comparing Copper Gutters with Other Types of Gutters
Four common gutter materials include copper, galvanized steel, aluminum, and vinyl. Here’s a look at how they compare against each other:
- Copper vs. Galvanized Steel:
- Copper is more expensive than steel but also more durable and elegant. Galvanized steel can be welded for strength, while copper must be soldered, which is less durable than welding. Steel is more prone to rust and corrosion, while copper can naturally weather.
- Copper vs. Aluminum:
- Copper is more durable and attractive than aluminum but is more expensive. Aluminum is lighter and easier to install than copper, but also less sturdy and less friendly to the environment.
- Copper vs. Vinyl:
- Copper lasts exponentially longer than vinyl but costs more and is heavy. Vinyl is lighter and easier to work with than copper but less resistant to weathering and fading.
Tips for Choosing and Installing Copper Gutters
Choosing your copper gutters carefully and correctly installing them are the keys to your satisfaction with your gutter system.
Here are a few practical tips for choosing and installing your new copper gutters:
- Choose a style that matches the design of your home. Homes with natural stone exteriors are a great fit for copper gutter patina.
- Consider the environment the gutters will be designed for. Are large, deciduous trees nearby? Is the home subject to regular severe weather? If so, enlarging the size of the gutter and downspout width can help alleviate overflows.
- You can add copper gutter guards to your system if needed to reduce maintenance.
- Will the copper gutters be a focal point of the exterior or play a supporting role? These decisions might impact your landscaping plans, such as climbing vines and flowers.
- Will you allow the copper to oxidize and patina to a brown or green color, or does the shine of copper draw your attention? You can use sealers to preserve either the original glow or the patina. You can even purchase kits to change the patina color from green to blue.
- Installing copper gutters should only be performed by those with the proper experience and training. So, it’s wise to have a local gutter installer put your copper gutters on your home rather than DIY. Improper installation often results in wasted money, damaged gutters, and unsatisfactory performance.
- Copper gutters require their share of regular maintenance to maintain your investment. Consider entering a maintenance contract with a local guttering pro to handle the semi-annual cleaning and repairs.
Thinking of Copper Gutters For Your Home? Contact Our Gutter Pros
Hopefully, we’ve helped you answer our primary question, “What are copper gutters?” If you’re still wondering why they’re popular, we have answers.
Copper gutters are considered by many as the ultimate upgrade to a necessary function to keep your home and property free of water overflows.
Gutters can blend into the exterior design or become a focal point of interest. Copper gutters fall into the latter category, so expect many curious and admiring neighbors after installing yours if you choose to get them.
Copper gutters can beautify your home’s curb appeal, improve drainage, avoid erosion, and add value if you resell your home.
While they initially cost more, copper gutters are a worthwhile investment because you won’t have to replace them as often, if at all. They might outlive your time in your home.
Consider copper gutters’ pros and cons and compare them to other gutter types before purchasing.
If you would like to learn more about what copper gutters can do for the look and health of your home, request a free estimate. Our gutter experts are the best at what they do and will ensure your satisfaction.
