There are many options to choose from when considering new gutters.

Environmental and monetary costs will be kept down by choosing a guttering material suitable for your climate.

Copper and aluminium are the materials of choice, copper being slightly more expensive. Aluminium gutters will not rust, which experts say is an advantage. Copper guttering is sturdy and lasting, too, but they can cost three to four times as much as aluminium.

Plastics such as PVC are not good choices for guttering as they cannot carry heavy loads of snow or rain water and they can become brittle with age. PVC is also not a very green-friendly choice. According to the US government, PVC plastic is one of the most hazardous consumer products ever created being dangerous to human health and the environment throughout its entire life cycle. Harmful synthetic chemicals that can cause cancer and damage the immune and reproductive systems are released during PVC's life cycle.

Replacing your gutters can be an unfortunate expense, but it can provide an environmental opportunity, because the way you handle your roof's water is important. You can capture rainwater in a barrel at the bottom of your gutters and use it to water non-edible plants in your garden and around the house.

Keeping gutters clear will prevent damage to your home through flooding and overspill and proper maintenance will reduce the need for replacements.