FAQ
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What are the benefits of seamless gutters?
Seamless gutters reduce leaks and require less maintenance because they have fewer joints compared to traditional gutters.
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How often should gutters be cleaned?
Gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year to prevent clogs and water damage, especially in areas with many trees.
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Do you offer gutter repairs or only installation?
We provide only new gutter installation. We will replace rotted fascia and leaf guard installation to keep your gutters functioning well.
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Is there a certain time of year to install gutters?
Late summer and early fall are ideal, especially before the heavy leaf fall and winter snow. Installing now ensures your home is protected through the wetter seasons. We also install gutters during the winter, weather permitting.
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What are some types of gutter systems and how do you select the best one?
Most residential homes use either K-style or half-round gutters. K-style gutters are more common due to their larger capacity and clean look. Half-round gutters are typically used on higher end or historic homes for their aesthetic appeal. The choice depends on both function and home style.
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What are different kinds of gutter materials?
The most common gutter materials are aluminum, copper, steel, and vinyl (plastic). We typically recommend aluminum for most homeowners—it’s durable, rust-resistant, lightweight, and available in a wide range of colors.
Copper gutters, while significantly more expensive, offer unmatched longevity and aesthetic appeal, especially for high-end or historic homes.
Steel gutters are strong but prone to rust without proper coating, so they’re less common for residential use today.
Overall, aluminum—along with copper—offers the best balance of durability, performance, and value for most homes. That’s why these are the majority types of gutters we install, as we're constantly replacing vinyl (plastic) and steel gutters that fail over time.
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Are leaf guards needed?
These are mesh or cover-style add-ons that prevent leaves, pine needles, and other debris from clogging your gutters. While they add to the upfront cost, they can significantly reduce the need for frequent cleanings and help your gutter system function properly year-round. Not all guards are created equal—some can even make clogs worse if poorly installed or cheaply made—so it's important to choose a system recommended by a professional based on your home’s surroundings and tree coverage. At Neathawk Seamless Gutters, we typically recommend aluminum and stainless steel mesh-style leaf guards over hooded systems, as they offer excellent debris protection without restricting water flow and are easier to maintain in the long run.
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Are vinyl (plastic) gutters good?
Vinyl (plastic) gutters are often seen as a budget-friendly option, but they come with notable drawbacks. While they’re lightweight and easy to install, vinyl tends to become brittle over time—especially in the Northeast where freezing temperatures and UV exposure are common. This can lead to cracking, warping, and eventual failure. They also don’t expand and contract well with temperature changes, which can loosen joints and cause leaks. In our experience, vinyl gutters have a much shorter lifespan and may cost homeowners more in the long run due to frequent repairs or premature replacement.

