When it comes to copper gutters and downspouts, there are a lot of reasons why homeowners should consider them as an accent for their roofs. Not only are they functional and durable, but they can also add visual appeal, improving the curb appeal of your home.
In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of copper gutters and downspouts, and we will also provide some tips on how to choose the right accents for your roof.
What Are Gutters?
Gutters are essential to a well-functioning home. They are installed along the edges of your roof and they serve to collect rainwater as it falls, directing it away from your home and foundation. This is important because if water is allowed to pool around your foundation, it can cause serious damage to your home over time.
What Are the Benefits of Copper Gutters?
Copper gutters are simply a type of gutter made from copper. However, copper gutters have many benefits over traditional gutters. They are more durable, they resist corrosion, and they are also low maintenance.
In fact, copper gutters can last 50 years -or more- with proper maintenance, while most traditional (aluminum) gutters only last about 15 to 20 years. That’s why you may have noticed beautiful copper gutters on historic homes; it’s not uncommon for copper gutters to last as long as 80 to 100 years!
But perhaps the biggest differentiator is that copper gutters will also add to the curb appeal of your home. They are visually appealing and eye-catching in a way that traditional gutters just are not. Copper gutters are often found in high-end, custom homes. They create a picture frame around your home, emphasizing beauty and design.
But the option is more affordable than you may think! While there’s more of an up-front cost, the durability makes it well worth the investment. Copper gutters never need to be repainted. Instead of painted gutters, which bubble, chip, or rust as they age, copper gutters age gracefully with a rich patina.
How to Select Copper Roof Accents
While gutters are typically functional, you can elevate them by installing copper gutters and downspouts. These act as accents to your roof, increasing the overall visual appeal.
When selecting copper gutters and downspouts, it is important to consider the style of your home. You want the gutters and downspouts to complement the overall look of your home, not clash with it.
You also want to make sure that the copper gutters and downspouts you select are the right sizes for your home. If they are too small, they will not be effective at collecting and directing water away from your home. If you are unsure of what size or style of copper gutters and downspouts to select, you can always consult with a professional.
Here are some popular copper gutter styles to consider:
K-Style Copper Gutters
Also known as Ogee gutter, K-style gutters are the most popular gutter design in the U.S. Most homes use K-style gutters, with the flat, vertical side attaching directly to the fascia boards, making installation fast and economical.
Half Round Copper Gutters
This gutter style is a bit more intricate and labor-intensive to install. Thus they are often seen on custom homes and historical home styles. Half-round copper gutters come in sizes ranging from four inches to more than seven inches across, capable of diverting small or large amounts of water away from your structure.
Eclipse Millennium Copper Gutters
This gutter system is like crown molding for the exterior of your home! It’s also highly functional, as it is designed so should the gutter ever become clogged, water would flow over the front of the gutter and not back onto the roof. Ideally suited for tile roof systems, this design handles high-velocity water flows and requires virtually no maintenance.
Takeaways on Copper Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts are an important functional part of any home, but they can also add to the curb appeal of your house. If you’re looking for a way to improve both the functionality and look of your home, copper gutters and downspouts may be the solution you’re looking for.
Interested in learning more? Reach out to our experienced roofing team at Bristlewood today to learn more about copper gutters and downspouts. We would be happy to answer any questions you have or provide you with a consultation and estimate. Visit our website or give us a call today!