What are seamless gutters? They are rain gutters that we create on-site with a gutter machine mounted to a service truck. The simple answer to the question, is they have no seams. They get custom measurements and they’re installed on-site in one continuous run.
The Brothers that just do Gutters offer seamless gutter installation in various materials including copper, aluminum, and galvalume. We also offer them in both half-round and k-style.
When we refer to DIY gutters, we are talking about sectional gutters. To manufacture gutters that are seamless, you need a professional-grade gutter machine. DIY gutters (sectional) differ because sectional gutters are installed in pieces and have seams.
When comparing seamless gutters vs. DIY gutters, there are some big differences between them in these four major categories:
The biggest difference is installation. Seamless gutter installation means that gutters are made on-site by rolling a metal sheet through a gutter-forming machine. Then the installer secures it to the side of the home in a continuous run.
Sectional gutters are much more difficult and time-consuming to install. Sectional gutters are most commonly made of vinyl or plastic. These types of materials are not available as a seamless gutter since these materials cannot be made into a roll form. As a sectional gutter system is installed, each section must be mitered and sealed together making the installation process much longer.
Seamless gutters are typically stronger simply because they do not have miters joining pieces together. The more seams a gutter system has, the higher the potential is for leaks.
Repairing a seamless system is more difficult since the entire system will typically be in need of a replacement. This tends to happen in the process of repair. However, in the event the gutter system comes off the house, a repair can address this issue.
You may assume that sectional gutters are less expensive than the cost of seamless gutters. But, the cost is actually nearly identical because of all the the extra pieces, caulking, and tools needing to complete a sectional gutter install. Also, because sectional gutters may be less sturdy and are often a DIY installation, they are not likely to last as long as a seamless gutter installation. This may mean more costs in the future.
A 5-inch seamless aluminum gutter is widely used in some areas of the country however, 6-inch gutters and 7-inch gutters are becoming increasingly popular. Seamless aluminum gutters also come in even larger sizes, which are typically industrial or commercial-style gutters.
The differences between 5-inch, 6-inch, and 7-inch gutters are their size, and the capacity of water they can hold. In cases where you often experience heavy rainfall and/or rainwater is continually overshooting your gutter system, a 6” gutter or 7″ gutter system may be the best for your home.
In addition to climate; the roofline, surface area, and pitch of your roof are important factors in determining if you should install a 5-inch, 6-inch, or 7-inch gutter system. Interchanging two different sizes of gutter within the same gutter system can also be a cost-effective solution for areas of your home needing higher capacity.
If you are in need of a seamless gutter installation, give The Brothers that just do Gutters a call! We can provide you with a free quote, but most importantly, the peace of mind knowing our experts are here to help you protect your home.