Color-Changing Copper Gutters
Friday, March 5th, 2010Custom gutters come in lots of varieties, but you will rarely find a material as beautiful and practical as copper. The pricing of this metal fluctuates with the market, but you can generally get these installed for under $25 per foot.

New Copper Gutters
Do you have a custom roof made from slate, metal, or cedar shakes? You might not want to detract from its stunning appearance by adding cheap vinyl gutters. Using copper for the gutter system in these situations may be ideal.
What To Expect
Copper doesn’t rust because (like aluminum) it develops a very thin oxidized film over its entire surface. This provides some protection for the underlying material. Oxidation causes copper’s first color change from metallic pink/orange to rich, reddish brown.
Sulfur mixed with moisture in the atmosphere creates the gradual change to green patina. This final sulfate coating is highly resistant to corrosion and protects copper over the long term. This finish can take more than a decade to develop depending on the specific atmospheric conditions in your area.
Style Choices
Half round and K-style gutters are the basic choices available for copper gutter systems. The half round style often costs more up front but is easier to clean because of its open profile. Both styles are durable and can be installed on modern and historical homes by using the appropriate hangers or brackets.
