How to Compare Gauges of Aluminum Gutters

Aluminum’s resistance the effects of weathering make it an ideal material for gutters. Aluminum is strong, even at lower temperatures. The thickness of aluminum transforms as it passes between pressurized rollers. The resulting thickness defines the aluminum’s gauge number. Manufactures make four gauges of aluminum for gutters: .019, .025, .027 and .032 inch. These gauges are also known as light, medium or heavy weight. Factors such as quality, durability and your area’s weather establish which aluminum gauge, or thickness, is most suitable.

Instructions

1. Compare your interest in quality to your budget. Light gauge gutters are an option for those working within tight budgets. Higher gauge aluminum is more costly. The highest gauge of aluminum is also referred to as “primary aluminum.” If you are looking for a quality gauge of aluminum, avoid pre-fabricated sections of recycled materials that are “plagued” with inconsistencies.

2. Determine if the gutter protects a small or large residence. Heavier gauges of aluminum protect large structures from rain or snow damage. A heavy gauge aluminum gutter also increases your protection from runoff dripping into your home’s crawlspaces. Light or medium gauges can be considered for smaller structures.

3. Examine the strength of your home's structure. Its exterior can be damaged if your home is not strong enough in the critical areas that will support the gutter. Heavy gauge aluminum gutters are lighter than steel. Although heavy gauge aluminum is inherently light, lesser aluminum gauges may present less of a threat to weak structures.

4. Establish durability requirements. If trees surround your home, an important factor to consider when comparing and selecting the appropriate aluminum gutter is its gauge. For maximum durability, and protection from falling branch damage, consider a gauge of no less than .032, the optimal thickness for aluminum gutters.

5. Access the potential for the unexpected. If gutter damage due to high winds, children’s play or ladder usage is likely, avoid light or medium weight aluminum gutters. Light gauge aluminum gutters tend to dent easily. Also, leaf build-up can cause light and medium gauge gutters to fail.

6. Identify your region’s rain and snowfall averages. Areas that endure the greatest amounts of rainfall may call for heavy gauge aluminum gutters. The weight of piling snow on light or medium gauge aluminum gutters may tearing at its anchors.

References

• US Rain Gutter Institute: Gauge or Thickness of the Gutter Material is Important
• Living Water Seamless Gutters, Co.: Buying Advice
• The Aluminum Association: Properties of Aluminum and Resulting End Uses

Resources

• Buying Guide Central: What You Need To Know About Gutters