Are Seamless Gutters Worth It?

For most homes, yes. Seamless gutters are formed on site in one continuous length per run, so the only joints are at corners and downspouts, which means fewer places to leak, sag or collect debris. They cost more than snap-together sectional gutters but usually need less upkeep.

Seamless vs. sectional

Sectional gutters come in pre-cut lengths that are joined every so often with connectors and sealant. Every joint is a spot that can drip, separate or catch leaves as the sealant ages through hot summers and freeze-thaw winters. Seamless gutters are rolled from a coil of aluminum on a machine at your house and cut to the exact length of each run. Joints only exist at the corners and downspout outlets.

The real advantages

• Fewer leaks. Fewer seams means fewer failure points.
• A cleaner look. One smooth line along the roof edge, in a color that matches or contrasts with your trim.
• Custom fit. Made to measure on site, so long runs don't need patching together.
• Durability. InterNACHI's life-expectancy chart lists aluminum gutters, downspouts, soffit and fascia at 20 to 40+ years.

The trade-offs

• They cost more than DIY sectional gutters from a home center.
• They're not a DIY project; they need a roll-forming machine and an installer.
• Repairing a damaged run sometimes means replacing the whole length rather than one section.

Getting the size right

Size matters as much as style. According to Thompson Creek's sizing guide, 5-inch K-style gutters are the standard on most homes, and 6-inch K-style gutters are best for larger homes or steep roofs. A big, steep roof valley dumping into one corner, or a long run with only one downspout, are classic causes of overflow. Downspout size and placement matter too: more or larger downspouts move water faster, and they should drain away from the foundation.

What to ask your installer

• What gauge of aluminum will you use?
• What hangers, and how far apart? Hidden hangers screwed into the fascia hold up better than old spike-and-ferrule systems.
• Is the fascia behind the gutters sound, or does any need replacing first?
• Where will downspouts go, and where will the water end up?
• Will the gutters be pitched toward the downspouts and water-tested?

Are they worth it for you?

If you plan to stay in your home, have mature trees, or have had leaks at gutter seams, seamless is usually the right spend. Pair new gutters with a roof replacement and the drip edge, fascia and gutters can all be done in one coordinated job. All In Roofing installs gutters across Ocean, Monmouth and Middlesex counties, and gutter cleaning is free with any job of $500 or more.