Metal Guttering vs Plastic (PVC) Guttering

Having an efficient guttering system in the home is crucial. However, choosing which one to have can be rather confusing. The two most common types of guttering systems are metal and plastic (PVC), so lets take a more in-depth look at the pros and cons to each one, so you are well placed to make an informed decision.

Metal guttering

• Metal gutters have a low heat expansion/contraction coefficient. Additionally, they can expand or contract in relation to the weather conditions much better than plastic that tends to deform permanently with the strain of extreme weather changes.
• Metal gutters take less damage as plastic ones due to ultraviolet light exposure. UV light causes plastic gutters to become brittle, weakening the brackets and rubber seals found at the joints. The result of such UV exposure and thermal movement is a parting of the joints and unavoidable leakages.
• Traditional iron-cast metal guttering systems had the compounded disadvantages of being heavy, prone to rust and had a semi-cylindrical shape that was ineffective in holding or redirecting water. Better metal alternatives, namely copper, aluminium, lead, zinc and stainless steel have a superior tolerance to the elements, are much lighter and are moulded into better water retention profiles.
• Metal gutters are incredibly strong and able to withstand the most extreme elements. Improved moulding technology allows metal gutters to be designed to last. Some metal gutters are made of alloys that are very durable.
• Metal gutters these days employ seamless technology; this means that the likelihood of joints breaking down and splitting, or of screws and bolts eroding and snapping is eliminated. Therefore, there are no leakages to speak of either.
• Zinc, stainless steel and copper rainwater systems also have the benefit of unassembling, so as to clean if required. The downpipes can easily be taken off and also have rodding points built in.

Plastic (PVC) guttering

• It is strong. pvc gutters come in one continuous unit as they are made from moulded plastic. They have no seams and need no paint, hence a lesser chance of corrosion with time. There is also a smaller chance of dents as well as blemishes and scratches on their surface as compared with the metallic ones.
• Plastic is flexible. Compared to some metal gutters, plastic does not easily lose its shape when it bows. In fact, they are made with this fact in mind. Metal gutters, although flexible, tend to distort after a considerable bit of pressure is applied. They bend, twist and dent much easier than the plastic variants.
• PVC gutters are less costly and more convenient to install than metal guttering systems. Plastic systems are less expensive on face value, and because they are lighter, you can install or replace them without needing to hire a professional.
• Plastic is easy to modify. This is because PVC is essentially moulded plastic, making its shape and colour highly adaptable to the design of your home. You can make a custom order to suit the dimensions of their home, although that will be slightly pricier than standard versions.
• Sectional plastic guttering in black does tend to also creak when warming up and cooling down, with the effects of weather.

Considering making the choice for a metal guttering system? Get in touch with JTC Roofing Contractors Ltd today. Your questions are highly welcome and we will listen to your requirements to make sure you end up with a metal guttering system that is right for you and your property.