Are Aluminum Gutters Better Than Steel Gutters?

When it comes to protecting your home from water damage, gutters play a crucial role in directing rainwater away from your siding, landscaping and foundation. Not every gutter material offers the same durability, longevity and performance. Two of the most popular gutter materials are aluminum and steel – but which is better?

Durability and Strength

One of the primary things to think about when choosing gutters is their durability and strength. This is especially true if you reside in an area prone to heavy rainfall, strong winds and extreme weather conditions.

Steel gutters are known for their exceptional strength and resistance to damage, which means they can be better for withstanding heavy accumulations of ice or snow. They’re also heavier, meaning they put more stress on fasteners and fascia – especially if they’re loaded with snow, ice or water.

Steel gutters, even galvanized steel gutters treated for rust, are still susceptible to rust and corrosion over time, especially if not properly maintained.



Aluminum gutters are lightweight yet durable, offering excellent resistance to rust and corrosion. From a damage resistance standpoint, any superiority steel gutters may have is marginal at best. In Seattle, where the high volume of rain is a much greater concern than infrequent snow, aluminum has the advantage. 

Cost and Affordability

Another factor to consider when selecting gutters is the cost and affordability of the materials. Steel gutters are typically more expensive than aluminum gutters, but steel gutters (allegedly) offer a longer lifespan and require less frequent replacement compared to aluminum gutters.

Aluminum gutters are more budget-friendly upfront and easier to install. They also require less maintenance, which further reduces long-term costs associated with any upkeep and repairs. Well-constructed and properly installed aluminum K-line gutters should last for decades, so any theoretical longevity advantages steel gutters offer are negligible.

Aesthetics and Appearance

The appearance of your gutters can significantly impact the overall curb appeal of your home. Both steel and aluminum gutters are available in a variety of finishes and colors, which allows homeowners to customize their gutter system based on their unique aesthetic to complement their home.

At Chet’s Roofing, we believe our aluminum K-line gutters with their OGEE double-curve shape add an air of sophistication to home exteriors. It’s also important to remember that aluminum gutters can be easily painted using acrylic exterior paints to ensure they match the exterior color of your home.

Environmental Considerations

Since aluminum is a highly recyclable material, it is an environmentally friendly choice for eco-conscious homeowners. Although steel gutters can also be recycled, aluminum gutters have the edge because they require less energy to manufacture and transport compared to steel gutters, which reduces their environmental impact.

Maintenance Requirements

Another important factor to consider when comparing aluminum and steel gutters is their maintenance requirements. Steel gutters may require more frequent maintenance like cleanings and inspections to prevent rust and corrosion. Steel gutters may also need to be repainted or coated with a protective finish periodically to keep their attractive appearance and durability.

Aluminum gutters are usually maintenance-free and don’t need much upkeep to keep them in their prime condition. This gives homeowners peace of mind, knowing that their gutter system will remain functional and attractive with minimal maintenance efforts.

Weight and Installation

The weight of your gutter material also plays a role in your home’s installation and structural integrity. Since steel gutters are heavier than aluminum gutters, they may naturally require more support during installation. This may make the installation process more labor-intensive and time-consuming compared to aluminum gutter installations.

The lightweight nature of aluminum gutters also reduces the strain on your home's fascia boards and support structure, which minimizes the risk of damage during and after installation.

Get High-Quality Aluminum Gutter Installations at Chet’s Roofing

At Chet’s Roofing & Construction, we believe the advantages of aluminum outweigh those of steel and regularly install custom-fitted K-line seamless aluminum gutters on homes in the Seattle area.

Contact us today at (877) 611-1514 to schedule a consultation and discover the best gutter solution for your home.