Guide to Gutters: How Long Do Gutters Last & How Can I Increase Gutter Lifespan?

If you have been living in your home for several years and are noticing that the gutters are starting to look worn down, you may be asking yourself, “How long do gutters last?” For the most part, there are a number of factors that can determine how long your gutters will last. And there are several steps you can take to increase the lifespan of your gutters.

At Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning of Long Island, we are the leading provider of gutter cleaning, gutter installation, gutter repair, and related services. Since 1965, we have been helping homeowners throughout Long Island and surrounding areas extend the life of their gutters in the most cost-effective and efficient manner possible.

We recently created this helpful guide to gutters to answer FAQs like "how long do gutters last", "how can I increase gutter lifespan," and others. Continue reading to learn more and don't hesitate to reach out to the team at Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning of Long Island for expert assistance.

How Long Do Gutters Last?

When it comes to determining how long your gutters will last, it rests heavily on the type of material used to manufacture the system. Let's look at some of the most popular and common materials.

How Long Do Aluminum Gutters Last?

Most modern homes today have aluminum gutters installed due to their dependable durability, low maintenance, fewer leaks, and fair pricing. Overall, aluminum gutter systems have an average life expectancy of 20 years; while their downspouts tend to last up to 30 years. Keep in mind factors such as climate, weather patterns, and maintenance are driving factors for gutter systems lasting longer (or shorter) than their average lifespan.

How Long Do Steel Gutters Last?

Another popular option is steel gutters, which cost a little bit more than aluminum but are better able to withstand objects falling on them (such as falling branches). On the downside, their excess weight can lead to sagging gutters more often and they are prone to rust. Even though they have roughly the same lifespan as aluminum gutters, they may need more upkeep over the years.

How Long Do Copper Gutters Last?

Homeowners with older homes or who are looking to add a rustic look to the property will sometimes opt for copper gutters. With an average lifespan of 50 years and 100 years for downspouts, copper gutters are the premium choice when compared to aluminum and steel gutters.

Unfortunately, the cost of copper is significantly greater. On average, aluminum gutters cost between $6 - $9 per foot, steel gutters cost $9 - $11 per foot, and copper gutters cost $35 - $45 per foot.

How Can I Increase Gutter Lifespan and Prevent Deterioration?

Carpenter ants and termites love wet environments with decaying leaves, so don’t give them a reason to make your gutters their home. To prevent decay, insect infestations, and increase the gutter lifespan of your home, try the following strategies.

Hire professionals to clean your gutters 2-4 times per year. Not only is doing it yourself dangerous, but ladders are one of the biggest culprits of homeowners damaging their own gutters by accident.
Install gutter guards to prevent large debris from clogging downspouts.
Ensure downspouts are extending 3 - 10 feet from the foundation (at minimum). When water accumulates too close to your home, it can be a slip-and-fall hazard, or possibly worse, water can seep into your home’s foundation over time (causing other problems).
Steel gutters should be inspected several times per year to prevent rust from occurring and spreading.
Hire professionals to apply sealant in the corners and at the endcaps every five years.
Trim trees around your home to prevent their leaves from entering your gutter system.

How Do I Know My Gutters Need Repair?

Usually, damaged gutters need to be repaired rather than be completely replaced altogether. Before you make any decisions on fixing your gutters, look for these tell-tale signs of possible needed repairs and speak to a professional about the best course of action:

Any visible holes or cracks
Evidence of rust or discoloration
Sagging gutters
Peeling or bubbling paint in or around the gutters
Pools of water near the home’s foundation
Gutters are starting to separate from the home or have broken fasteners
Gutters are not seamed together properly (at corners)
Standing water in the gutters
Dripping gutters
Ice dams or icicles forming along the roof

Contact Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning of Long Island

When it comes to protecting your home and wallet, your gutters are the first line of defense. And the team at Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning of Long Island offers a range of solutions designed to help extend the life of your gutters and increase your return on investment.

Contact Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning of Long Island today.

Erika Cruz

Erika began her career at Ned Stevens in September 2009 after 4 years of managing investment portfolios for banks and credit unions. She graduated with her business degree in Management in May of 2016 while working Full-time at Ned Stevens. With 11 years of gutter expertise, as office manager she is in charge of the day to day operation and is fully dedicated to her staff and customers.