When it comes to looking for your next rainwater and guttering system, you may be relieved to find there a wide range of materials available to choose from.
The problem however, arises when specifiers realise there are too many options, making it hard to find the right fit for your commercial or residential project.
Over recent years, the market for guttering systems has changed. In this blog we will cover the most commonly used types of materials, so you can find the right type for your property.
Commonly Used Materials for Guttering Systems
The market is changing and specifiers are more frequently looking for a system that will be hard-wearing, aesthetic and not worsen the environment.
Despite this, there are some materials that have been commonly used for decades to create guttering systems, so let’s look at a few of these and the pros and cons of each.
Plastic / UPVC
A mainstay of the guttering world, plastic guttering systems are often chosen because of their apparent low-cost and investment. It also provides good versatility in design, with many colours and profiles available to match a range of buildings.
Despite being the seemingly cheaper option though, specifiers are finding more and more, that UPVC/Plastic guttering systems can cost them more in the long run. They require a lot of maintenance and have to be replaced quite frequently.
Still undecided? We will leave you with this: it is estimated that nearly 5 million tonnes of plastic is used every year in the UK alone. The effect this has on the planet is devastating, to say the least.
Copper Guttering
For those looking for a more aesthetic-forward approach to guttering systems; copper can elevate the look of any building. As well as looking good, copper is tough and will withstand heavy usage.
The issue here for many specifiers is the premium price tag on copper, and therefore is used sparingly and to achieve very specific design aims.
Steel Guttering
Low-maintenance, easy-to-install and erosion resistant. Steel guttering systems are ideal for coastal environments, due to their resistance to corrosion and hard-wearing composition.
Whilst being a solid choice for your guttering systems, in recent years, Aluminium Guttering has proven it can achieve near the same benefits of its steel counterpart, whilst offering even more advantages.
Aluminium for your Guttering Systems
Aluminium is going through a resurgence the last few years. The wide range of benefits it provides are further helped by the lack of any major negatives to consider.
Aluminium guttering systems are lightweight and incredibly durable. This makes it easier to install and ensures minimal maintenance long after it has been installed. Specifiers are attracted to this prospect and have begun to see aluminium as the go-to for commercial projects.
So how do aluminium guttering systems hold up in bad weather?
Its composition allows for high-levels of durability and a resistance to wear and tear, meaning you don’t need to worry about the all-too-common British storms.
Aluminium is also naturally impervious to rust and doesn’t fall prey to brittleness like its aforementioned counterparts.
The aesthetic of aluminium
Fundamentally, guttering systems are not considered aesthetically pleasing. By design, they are intended to work invisibly without detracting too much from the design of the building.
Materials like UPVC / Plastic guttering are probably the worst culprit for worsening the look of a building. These plastic guttering systems are often seen as tacky and an eyesore and are one the main reasons they are being used less and less – especially in commercial projects.
Aluminium, on the other hand, is sleek and easy-on-the-eye. Not only that, but aluminium guttering can be custom made to suit almost any building.
HJA’s aluminium guttering systems come ready with an array of finishes, helped by the unique powder coating techniques used during manufacturing. The powder coating finishes can range from RAL to BS colouring options (or even heritage textured features).
Aluminium’s green credentials
As one of the most recyclable materials on the market, aluminium is the definition of ‘green’. It has the ability to be infinitely recycled into itself over and over again, ensuring zero waste.
As the world forces us to be more aware of the effect out businesses have on the environment, you can rest assured that aluminium isn’t only the smart choice but the conscientious choice too.
Conclusion
So what material should you choose for your rainwater or guttering systems? Well, all of the materials we have mentioned have a place in the market and can be the right choice for specific building specifications.
The best all-round choice, however, seems to be aluminium guttering systems. They offer the best advantages of it’s counterparts, whilst doing away with the cons such as high cost or negative effects on the planet.
About Us
For any of your rainwater and guttering systems needs; we can provide trusted help and advice along the way – especially with design and material choices. The key benefit to using HJA for your roofing and guttering needs is that we can provide a complete system from bespoke fabrications to soffits and louvres.
We pride ourselves on our unrivalled technical experience in the aluminium trade and the understanding and care we provide for our customers. Our business principles are the foundation of our company – reliability, consistency and quality.
We understand the quality and efficiency that is required by our customers and we deliver every time. Get in touch with an expert today.
