Vinyl vs. Aluminum Gutters: Pros, Cons, and Costs

Choosing durable gutters keeps your home safe from potential water damage. But which material is best? Many homeowners narrow down their options to vinyl gutters or aluminum gutters. Both can be on the lower end of the budget, but each has qualities that are suitable for your needs. Learn which gutter material is best for your home.

Vinyl vs. Aluminum Gutters: Key Differences

Vinyl and aluminum gutters are drainage systems installed along roof edges to channel rainwater away from homes. Vinyl gutters are lightweight, affordable, and rust-resistant but are prone to cracking in extreme weather. Aluminum gutters are a more durable option, boasting weather resistance, however, they are prone to dents. Vinyl is a lower-cost option at $3 to $7 per linear foot, while aluminum gutters cost $7 to $12 per linear foot.

What Are Vinyl Gutters?

Vinyl gutters are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and are available in various styles and colors to match different architectural designs. Sold in sections, they're assembled using connectors and sealants to form a continuous drainage system.

Best for:

• Budget-conscious homeowners

• DIY projects

• Homeowners seeking a low-maintenance option

Pros of Vinyl Gutters

Vinyl gutters are a budget-friendly option for homeowners. Their lightweight design makes them easy to handle and install, which is great if you plan to DIY the job. The snap-together design also simplifies installation and ensures a clean, polished look.

Since they're made from PVC, vinyl gutters are naturally resistant to rust and corrosion, making them an excellent choice for homes in humid climates. Vinyl gutters won't rot, rust, or attract pests, which helps preserve their appearance and functionality. Available in various colors and styles, vinyl gutters can complement different home exteriors without repainting.

Cons of Vinyl Gutters

One of the biggest concerns about vinyl gutters is their durability, as the material can become brittle and crack in extremely cold temperatures. Unlike aluminum gutters, vinyl isn't equipped to handle heavy rainfall or extreme weather conditions, so it's less suitable in areas with severe climates. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can also cause warping and fading.

Another downside of vinyl gutters is their structural weakness compared to aluminum. They're prone to sagging if they have heavy debris buildup or aren't installed properly. The seams and joints in vinyl gutter systems are prone to weakening, leading to leaks and frequent repairs. Vinyl gutters have a shorter lifespan than aluminum and require replacement more often.

What Are Aluminum Gutters?

Made from corrosion-resistant aluminum, this gutter material is a lightweight, metal drainage system. These gutters come in seamless and sectional options, with different gutter sizes and color options to meet architectural home styles. Aluminum gutters can be coated with a baked-on enamel finish, which helps maintain their appearance and longevity without requiring additional treatments.

Best for:

• Homeowners seeking a durable option

• Areas with heavy rainfall and extreme hot or cold temperatures

• Customizing specific home designs

Pros of Aluminum Gutters

Aluminum gutters are a durable option for homeowners due to their natural resistance to rust and corrosion. While lightweight, aluminum gutters are strong enough to handle heavy rainfall without sagging or breaking. Their weather-resistant properties make them suitable for both hot and cold climates, as they won’t warp, crack, or become brittle.

The material is available in seamless designs, which reduce the risk of leaks and provide a cleaner, more polished look for your home’s exterior. Another major advantage of aluminum gutters is their versatility and customization options to achieve a cohesive exterior design.

Cons of Aluminum Gutters

While aluminum gutters boast durability, the material is susceptible to dents. Unlike heavier metals, aluminum can be easily damaged by falling branches, ladders, or other heavy impact. 

While aluminum gutters are more affordable than premium options like copper or wood, they're more expensive than vinyl. The average aluminum gutter installation cost ranges between $7 and $12 per linear foot. Another cost factor is installation, as aluminum gutters require professional installation by a gutter pro near you.

Aluminum gutters can react negatively to temperature fluctuations, expanding and contracting with extreme temperature changes. This can cause fasteners to loosen, leading to possible leaks or misalignment. While aluminum is rust-resistant, it can still corrode if the protective coating is damaged, especially in coastal areas with high salt exposure.

Aluminum vs. Vinyl Gutters

Here’s how these two gutter materials compare in terms of appearance, customization, price, and more.

Appearance​: Aluminum

Aluminum gutters have a more polished and professional look. They come with a baked-on enamel finish that resists fading and wear, whereas vinyl gutters can become discolored or warped over time, diminishing their appearance.

Options and Customizations​​: Aluminum

Aluminum gutters offer more customization options for size, style, and color. They can even be painted to match a home’s exterior. Vinyl gutters, while available in various colors, aren’t as aesthetically versatile, and their sectioned design limits customization compared to seamless aluminum gutters.

Durability​​: Aluminum

Aluminum gutters are more durable than vinyl gutters because they withstand extreme temperatures without cracking or warping. They can handle heavy rainfall and last longer with proper maintenance. Vinyl gutters can become brittle in cold weather and warp under prolonged sun exposure, requiring replacement.

Price​: Vinyl

Vinyl gutters are a more budget-friendly option than aluminum. Gutter replacement cost for vinyl ranges between $3 and $7 per linear foot while aluminum gutters cost between $7 and $12 per linear foot. While aluminum gutters provide better longevity, their higher upfront cost may not fit every budget.

Ease of DIYability​: Vinyl

Vinyl gutters are the easier option for DIYers, as they're lightweight and designed for simple snap-together installation. Repairs are also more manageable since damaged sections can be easily replaced. Aluminum gutters, especially seamless gutters versus regular gutters, require professional installation and can be harder to repair if dented or bent. 

Maintenance​: Aluminum

Aluminum gutters require less maintenance because they do not crack or warp like vinyl. They resist weather damage better and maintain their structural integrity longer. While rust-proof, vinyl gutters can weaken at the joints and become brittle.

Resale Value​: Aluminum

Aluminum gutters provide better long-term value and curb appeal for a smarter investment. Their durability, customization options, and ability to maintain appearance contribute to higher resale value. Vinyl gutters, while affordable upfront, have a shorter lifespan and may not enhance a home’s value.