Like Superman, steel gutters can withstand impact from heavy objects. Durable, rust-resistant, and long-lasting, they can protect your home from water damage. However, their initial costs and maintenance needs may be their kryptonite.
Steel gutters can be made of galvanized steel or stainless steel, which affects their cost, rust-resistance, and lifespan. In this article, we’ll cover the pros and cons of steel gutters, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your home.
Types of Steel Gutters
| Cost | Lifespan | |
| Galvanized Steel | Mid-priced | 15 to 20 years |
| Stainless Steel | Expensive | More than 50 years |
There are two types of steel gutters: stainless steel and galvanized steel. Stainless steel gutters are made with chromium to protect them from rust and corrosion. On the other hand, galvanized steel gutters are coated with a layer of zinc to achieve the same result.
Stainless steel gutters are less popular than galvanized steel ones because they are expensive. Despite their lower cost, galvanized steel gutters are less rust-resistant than stainless steel gutters and require more maintenance.
Benefits of Steel Gutters
Steel gutters are naturally rust-resistant, paintable, and durable, which makes them an attractive choice for homeowners who want reliable and visually appealing gutters. They offer many benefits to a home at a reasonable price.
Durable
Galvanized steel and stainless steel gutters are less prone to dents than aluminum gutters, which are the most popular type of metal gutters. Additionally, steel gutters can withstand impact from heavy objects, falling debris, and strong winds.
Both types of steel gutters are durable and can hold the weight of rainwater, snow, and ice without sagging. However, galvanized steel and stainless steel gutters don’t naturally form protective patina, which Corten steel does.
Rust-resistant
The chromium in stainless steel gutters makes them rust-resistant throughout their lifespan. However, the zinc layer on galvanized steel gutters fades over time, especially with prolonged exposure to wet conditions.
Despite this, galvanized steel is still a great choice for a rust-resistant gutter material. Regular inspections and maintenance can help homeowners repair their galvanized steel gutters to prevent rust.
Long Lifespan
With proper maintenance, stainless steel gutters have a lifespan of at least 50 years. On the other hand, galvanized steel gutters typically last around 15 to 20 years.
Seamless steel gutters, which are installed as a single, continuous piece, are longer-lasting than their sectional counterparts because they are less prone to leaks between the seams. Additionally, seamless steel gutters are custom-fit to your home’s needs, so you won’t have to worry about frequent repairs.
Learn More: How Long Do Gutters Last?
Appearance
Galvanized steel can be painted to match your home’s exterior and boost your curb appeal. On the other hand, stainless steel gutters have a chrome-like sheen, which complements modern homes well.
Bonderized galvanized steel is known as “Paint Grip Steel” because it is paint-ready. It is manufactured to make painting your steel gutters easier because its surface enables paint to adhere to the galvanized steel more effectively, similar to a primer.
Unlike copper and zinc, galvanized steel and stainless steel don’t naturally form a protective patina layer with a distinct rustic appearance. However, Corten steel is a special type of steel that develops into a warm brown color as it is exposed to the elements.
Reasonably Priced
While aluminum is the most affordable metal gutter material, galvanized steel is a popular mid-priced choice, which typically costs $8 to $14 per linear foot. According to the Freedonia Group’s research, steel gutters have the second-highest demand among homeowners in the United States.
Read More: Steel vs. Aluminum Gutters: Which Are Best for Your Home?
However, stainless steel gutters are more expensive than galvanized steel ones. They cost around $11 to $33 per linear foot, which makes them less common in homes today. Installation costs vary depending on the number of downspouts, gutter guards, end caps, and hangers your home requires.
Sustainable
Stainless steel and galvanized steel are 100% recyclable, making them suitable for homeowners seeking a sustainable gutter material. Additionally, steel gutters in the market today already contain around recycled steel, so you can reduce your carbon footprint while protecting your home from water damage.
Ideal for Extreme Climates
Stainless steel and galvanized steel are suitable for areas with extreme weather conditions because they won’t crack or warp due to temperature fluctuations, like aluminum gutters. Steel gutters can hold the weight of ice, snow, and rain, but water buildup can cause rust in galvanized steel gutters.
You can install heat cables on them because they won’t get damaged from the hot temperatures. Additionally, they are suitable for wildfire-prone areas because they won’t burn or melt.
Downsides of Steel Gutters
While steel gutters offer many advantages, understanding their drawbacks helps you make a fully informed decision before installing them. Aside from initial installation costs, the maintenance needs of steel gutters should also be considered.
Requires Professional Installation
Unlike lightweight materials such as vinyl or aluminum gutters, steel gutters are heavier and more time-consuming to install. Seamless steel gutters require professional installation due to the specialized expertise and equipment needed, which increases their initial cost.
Needs to be Recoated
Galvanized steel gutters are susceptible to rust, unlike stainless steel gutters. The zinc coating on galvanized steel gutters eventually fades. In addition to regular maintenance and inspections, their protective coating typically needs to be reapplied every 10 years.
Inspections and Maintenance
While stainless steel gutters are low maintenance, galvanized steel gutters require regular cleaning and inspections to prevent rust. As mentioned above, their zinc coating fades over time, so detecting the early signs of rust and recoating the zinc layer helps prevent rust.
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What to read next:
- Pros and Cons of Aluminum Gutters
- Pros and Cons of Copper Gutters
- Vinyl vs. Aluminum Gutters: Which Is Right for You?
Main Image: Stainless steel roof gutter on a house. Image Credit: sutichak / Adobe Stock
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