Frequently Asked Questions

The following is a list of questions that Aluminum Supply Company's staff frequently encounters. If you have a question and cannot find an adequate answer here, please contact ASCO via or and your concern will be addressed in a timely manner.

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General Material Questions
Alloys | Delivery, Inventory and Pricing

Finishing
Anodizing | Brushing and Polishing | Painting

Fabrication
Technical Specifications | Ordering and Service

General Material

What are the differences between aluminum alloys?

NON-HEAT-TREATABLE (COMMON) ALLOYS

This is commercially pure aluminum (99% minimum). It has excellent corrosion resistance, weldability, and workability, as well as high thermal conductivity.

This is the most commonly used commercial aluminum alloy. It is alloyed with a small percentage of manganese and has slightly higher strength than . It is very workable and can be easily sheared and brake-formed. This alloy offers good corrosion resistance, but does not always provide the most consistent finish in anodized applications.

This alloy is very similar in properties to and , and is preferred where anodizing is required. All of ASCO's pre-finished anodized sheets are -H34. It matches architectural alloy when anodized.

This is one of the highest-strength common aluminum alloys. Any bends tighter than 90˚ may crack or craze on the corners. It offers very good corrosion resistance, and is our second choice (after ) for anodizing.

Many other "common" (non-heat treatable) alloys are available with characteristics making them especially suitable for specific applications. Please inquire should you have such requirements.

HEAT-TREATABLE (STRONG) ALLOYS

While limited in formability and workability, this alloy has high tensile strength &#; in the 30 to 63 KSI range. It is used in high-strength structural and aircraft applications.

This is one of the strongest aluminum alloys. Formability is quite limited. Applications are similar to alloy, with chosen when higher mechanical properties are required.

This is the most common structural alloy. It offers affordability, while maintaining strength and good corrosion resistance. It is commonly used in framing and structural applications where weldability and strength are important. Since it is harder in the T6/T651 condition than and , it is not as formable; therefore, sheet may crack if brake-formed. ASCO stocks a wide variety of extrusions, sheets and plates in this alloy.

This is an architectural alloy. It is highly resistant to corrosion and can be anodized with very good results. It is utilized in exterior and interior storefront, window, door, and trim applications. ASCO offers a wide variety of stock extrusions in this alloy in both mill and anodized finishes.

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How long does it typically take to obtain sheet or plate that is currently out of stock?

Most standard sheet and plates sizes and thicknesses are readily available from ASCO stock. In the event of a stock shortage, standard sheet or plate can be obtained in 3-5 working days in most cases. Specialty sheet, or items that are cut to a non-standard size may take longer based on quantity and/or configuration.

How long does it typically take to obtain extruded material that is currently out of stock?

If stock shortages occur, most standard extrusions can be obtained directly from the mill within 3-4 weeks. ASCO rigorously monitors stock and tries to ensure that shortages occur minimally. If there is an urgent need to replenish stock, ASCO can obtain extrusions from other sources more quickly.

Why aren't standard price lists available for your products?

Costs of materials are subject to frequent changes due to fluctuations in the market, costs of raw materials, and other factors. These changes could affect selling prices.

For sheets and extrusions, ASCO offers pricing based upon the requested quantity. For example, the cost for one or two pieces of a particular extrusion would be significantly different than the cost for 100 pieces of the same item.

How can I order a custom extrusion die and what is the minimum amount of material typically required for a mill run?

If your project requires extruded material that does not fit any currently available standard profile, custom dies can be built. It typically takes 1-2 weeks for the tooling to be manufactured. Extruding the custom shape generally takes 3-4 weeks. For most dies, there is a -pound minimum. In some cases, such as those involving very large shapes, the minimum mill run may be pounds or more.

For more specific information regarding custom dies, please contact ASCO's sales department via this site or by (313-491- or 800-899-).

Can I stop in and browse your warehouse if I am unsure of exactly what I need?

Due to company policy, ASCO cannot allow customers into the warehouse areas. To assist you in making your selections, we can offer the assistance of our experienced sales staff. At the service counter, samples of common sheet thicknesses and finishes are available for your reference. If an ASCO representative is available, we can also try to show you extruded products from the warehouse prior to purchase.

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Finishing

Anodizing

What is anodizing and what are the benefits?

Anodizing is a multi-step finishing process. The first stages include deep cleaning, rinsing, and chemical etching. Finally, a cathode is connected to a negative current source, and an aluminum part is connected to a positive current source, and both are placed in a conductive medium. When the electrical current is activated, the oxygen in the solution reacts with the aluminum part, causing aluminum oxide to be formed on the surface. This is basically single/one-step anodizing. Two-step anodizing adds color. Deposition of various metals into the anodized finish gives color to the finish, from the bronze range to black. Specialty finishers can even provide red, blue, green, or white anodized finishes.

There are many benefits to an anodized finish. Not only does it offer greatly enhanced protection against corrosion, it also provides an increased resistance to normal wear and tear. Cleaning and maintenance is much easier with an anodized finish. Anodized surfaces are an excellent base for secondary coatings.

I recently ordered some anodized material that does not match the same material with the same finish that I ordered previously. Why is that?

There are many variables that may lead to color inconsistencies in anodized finishes.

Any variation in alloy or temper of aluminum being finished can result in color variation. For example, an aluminum bar run at one mill may anodize differently than the same bar run at another mill due to only a very small difference in magnesium content.

In addition, length of time spent in the anodizing "bath" can affect the final color. In the bronze range, for example, the longer the part is left in the bath, the darker the resultant color will be. Bronze colors are generally considered acceptable if they fall into an appropriate specified range.

Our finishers are cognizant of these factors, and continually monitor their systems to maintain the best possible color consistency from batch-to-batch and order-to-order.

For a premium, it is possible to obtain material that all comes from the same "lot," which means it was all produced in the same run. This is one way to improve the odds of a consistent finish throughout all of the material.

What are rack marks/clamp marks and how will they affect my material?

Clamp marks on fabricated materials are inherent in the post-anodizing process and are essentially unavoidable. In order to maintain the proper flow of current, material is typically clamped in from the ends. This will leave marks on both sides of the material, usually about the size of a nickel or dime. When anodizing pre-formed parts, it is often possible to specify which area is the least exposed after installation and clamp accordingly. Sheets are typically clamped in the two adjacent corners of the length of the sheet. Material that is not excessively heavy may be racked using a pin clamp, resulting in marks that are considerably smaller than those caused by a normal clamping situation.

All pre-finished anodized sheet under .125" thick will have no exposed rack or clamp marks whatsoever. This is due to the fact that the material was anodized in coil form, rather than as individual sheets.

Rack marks are also unavoidable on anodized extrusions, but on some shapes we can choose which surfaces are affected.

What standard anodized finishes are readily available and how can I obtain a sample?

Many of ASCO's sheets and extrusions are stocked in both clear and dark bronze anodized finishes. Sheet stock is available in a variety of other anodized finishes, including light bronze, medium bronze, and champagne. If your required finish is not available, ASCO can always have the material post-anodized.

To obtain a sample of any anodized finish, please contact ASCO via this site or by (313-491- or 800-899-).

I noticed that an extrusion in your catalog is listed as mill finish only but a similar size is available in all anodized finishes. Is it possible to obtain the size I need in an anodized finish as well?

Most of the standard and popular extrusion and sheet sizes are available in both dark bronze and clear anodized. In the event that a particular size or shape is not available in the finish your job requires, ASCO can send the desired quantity out to be anodized. This process is a bit more time-intensive, averaging approximately 10-15 working days.

What happens to welded material during the anodizing process? Why is it suggested that welded material is painted rather than anodized?

Due to the inherent nature of the welding process, it is extremely difficult to obtain color consistency in welded areas when anodizing.

The main issue lies in the differing alloys of the welding rod and the aluminum. With most standard applications, the difference in alloy will result in the weld anodizing as an inconsistent dark or dull silver-gray while the part itself would have a clean and uniform warm gray finish. This difference in color is extremely noticeable when the welds are exposed, and our customers generally deem this as unacceptable. There are some welding rod alloys that are supposed to accept the anodizing process, but past experience has shown that even these will still result in a non-uniform finish. In the rare case that a close color match is obtained, there is still one problem that is essentially unavoidable.

The heat generated while welding changes the temper of the aluminum that has come in contact with the welding rod. After the material is anodized, a light gray or white halo will appear around the weld, resulting in additional inconsistencies and causing the weld to appear much larger than it actually is. In some cases, white fissures may also develop throughout the body of the weld itself. Grinding the weld further increases the inconsistency of the finish, as it often alters the grain of the material, which will be greatly exaggerated during the anodizing process.

ASCO generally recommends that welded material is post-painted to match the required anodized finish. While it is a bit more costly, it eliminates most of the variables and allows much greater control over the finishing process. Ultimately, it will result in a completely uniform appearance.

What is the typical lead time for anodizing material?

All required post-anodizing is outsourced to experienced anodizing facilities. Lead time mostly depends on the size, shape, and quantity of the material. Typically, it takes 10-15 business days from the time the material leaves the ASCO facility to the time it will return. Please note that with orders requiring fabrication, the total lead time will be longer.

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Brushing/Polishing

What materials are available in a brushed or polished finish, and how can I obtain a sample?

Our standard sheet stock items include #4 brushed (strong directional grain) and #8 polished (mirror finish) stainless steel. It is also possible to obtain brushed or polished aluminum and brass, but these are not standard stock items.

To obtain a sample of our brushed or polished stainless steel or to check the availability of other materials, please contact ASCO via this site or by (313-491- or 800-899-).

How are the sheets protected from damage while handling? Can brushed and polished materials be used in fabrication without excess damage?

All brushed and polished sheets are protected with a thin vinyl masking that is to be removed at the time of installation. This typically protects the finished surface from most scratching and gouging during the fabrication and handling processes.

What problems arise when handling brushed aluminum?

Brushed aluminum is extremely prone to wear and tear without further finishing after the brushing. The finish is very susceptible to oils commonly found on human skin, for example, causing fingerprints and other markings to be quite evident. Removing these marks is difficult and in some cases nearly impossible. On an exterior application, it is impossible to properly maintain the cleanliness and overall appearance of the brushed aluminum. ASCO typically recommends using a brushed stainless steel or clear anodized material as a substitute for brushed aluminum products.

What is the typical lead time for brushing/polishing unfinished material?

Depending on the quantity and size of parts requiring finishing, it can take approximately 10 to 25 working days to obtain the proper brushed or polished finish.

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Painting

What colors of paint are available and how can I obtain a sample?

ASCO stocks Petersen Aluminum's PAC-CLAD® pre-finished steel and aluminum sheet. Please see our color chart (link to Petersen Color Chart) for available finishes and thicknesses. These colors are a very economical choice when seeking a painted finish.

If your project requires a custom finish or another manufacturer's standard color, ASCO will outsource the finishing to an experienced local painter. Nearly any color imaginable can be matched. Material may be painted in sheet form, or to avoid the possibility of fabrication-related marring, after brake forming.

If your project requires painted extruded material, it must be sent out for finishing. None of ASCO's extruded material is stocked in a painted finish.

To obtain a sample of any of our pre-finished painted colors, please contact ASCO via this site or by (313-491- or 800-899-).

What is the standard type of painted finish for interior and exterior architectural applications?

The industry standard for high-performance painted finishes is a 70% fluoropolymer, also known as Kynar 500® or Hylar ®. This class of finish is easy to maintain and is extremely resistant to wear and fading. All Kynar 500® and Hylar ® finishes meet or exceed the standards outlined in the AAMA specification. This type of finish is acceptable in both interior and exterior applications.

For interior applications, a more economical 50% fluoropolymer or baked enamel is available. These finishes do not perform to the level of the 70% fluoropolymer and are not recommended for exterior architectural applications.

All pre-finished PAC-CLAD® painted sheet stocked at ASCO utilizes the 70% Kynar 500® and Hylar ® finishes. Typically, all post-coated painted material is finished with a 70% fluoropolymer unless otherwise specified.

My project specifications require matching a manufacturer's standard color or a custom color as selected by the architect. Will this pose any problems?

If your project requires a custom finish or another manufacturer's standard color, ASCO will outsource the finishing to an experienced local painter. When utilizing a custom color, a sample paint chip must be supplied to ensure an accurate match. If the color is a standard of another paint or product manufacturer, the paint color code can often be used to obtain a sample of the finish. When requesting a quote for custom painted material, please provide as much information regarding the finish as possible.

What are the minimum material thickness requirements for post-painting? Will there be any visible rack marks, such as those inherent to anodizing?

The standard minimum material thickness for custom painting is .040. After a part runs through the paint line, it is then run through an oven in order to cure and set the paint. If thinner material than .040 is used, it is very likely to twist, warp, or otherwise deform during the baking process. This sometimes occurs with .040 material as well. ASCO suggests using a minimum of .050 when painting pre-formed aluminum.

For painting flat sheets, or alloy aluminum is recommended if material is to be fabricated after finishing.

When specifying a custom paint, it is vital that a non-exposed surface is clearly identified. There must be some area on the part that can be placed on a wire rack or have holes placed in it to hang from the paint line. When painting pre-formed material, it will be racked on the non-exposed side. In some cases, holes must be drilled in the non-exposed area to allow for hanging. The customer must specify the locations that are acceptable for these marks. Similar to anodizing, flat sheet will have two holes drilled in the corners to allow for hanging on the paint line. This is essentially unavoidable when painting flat sheet.

Is it more efficient and economical to custom paint material in sheet form or after all fabrication is complete?

ASCO has approached fabrication jobs in both fashions. For a multitude of reasons, it is typically recommended that material is painted after all fabrication is completed.

For more oem painted aluminum coil for gutters supplierinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

Additional resources:
The Advantages of Employing Aluminium Profile for Windows

Cracking and crazing on the corners is somewhat common to bending aluminum of heavier gauges. While fluropolymer finishes do have elastic characteristics, paint on the corner of thicker material may have noticeable crazing.

Painting after fabrication helps to mask a bit of the crazing on the corners of the product. It also ensures that the paint will not crack or chip. ASCO has continually obtained much more favorable results when finishing after fabrication.

Is it possible to obtain painted material that is finished on all sides?

A majority of our standard pre-finished material is finished on one side only. There are a few items, including white baked enamel and dark bronze/black painted, that are finished on both sides. On these items, masking is typically available on one side only. The cut edges of the material will be unfinished.

With custom painted orders, it is possible to get close to full coverage in some cases. This is considerably more costly and labor intensive. No matter what, the painter will have to rack the material somehow. It is critical that an exact location for racking holes/rack marks is provided in order to ensure accuracy. On all architectural metals, there is typically some point on the part that will need to be fastened to something else, resulting in a condition in which some of the material is not exposed. These locations must be specified in order to provide some sort of anchoring point for the paint line. 100% full coverage on all exposed faces and edges of a part without rack marks or holes is essentially impossible to obtain.

What is the typical lead time for custom painted material?

Depending on the painter's schedule and the size, quantity, and shape of the material, it can take from 5-10 days for finishing. In cases where there is an excessive amount of material or extremely large finished surfaces, it may take 10-15 days for painting. It is very helpful to get as much advanced notice as possible when ordering custom painted material, as paint often has to be ordered from various locations throughout the country.

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Fabrication

Can you recommend a specific material/thickness based upon my job requirements?

An ASCO representative can suggest material options based upon your application and previous experience with similar situations. In the event that a suggestion does not produce favorable results, ASCO cannot be held responsible. All advice is given at the request of the buyer and accepted at the buyer's risk.

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for more information regarding technical advice.

What are your standard tolerances for shearing and bending?

The standard tolerance for shearing applications is 1/32".

For typical brake forming applications, the standard tolerance is 1/64".

What is the thinnest and thickest material that can be bent?

The following table illustrates the thickest and thinnest materials that we are capable of bending successfully:

Material Thinnest Thickest Aluminum ( H14) .025 .250 Galvanized Steel 28 GA 7 GA Stainless Steel 28 GA 11 GA

If you would like more information regarding fabrication capabilities, please see our Machinery Information area or please contact ASCO via this site or by (313-491- or 800-899-) to speak with a representative.

What is the thinnest and thickest material that can be sheared?

The following table illustrates the thickest and thinnest materials that we are capable of shearing accurately:

Material Thinnest Thickest Aluminum ( H14) .025 .250 Galvanized Steel 28 GA 3 GA Stainless Steel 28 GA 13 GA

If you would like more information regarding fabrication capabilities, please see our Machinery Information area or please contact ASCO via this site or by (313-491- or 800-899-) to speak with a representative.

What is the smallest leg that can be bent?

The size of the smallest bend depends mostly on the thickness of material and the bending conditions. The following table illustrates the smallest leg that can be bent in a typical 90˚ situation using H14 alloy aluminum.

Material Thickness Smallest Leg .025-.040 5/16" .050-.063 3/8" .080-.090 7/16" .125 1/2" .187 5/8" .250 3/4"

If you would like more information regarding fabrication capabilities, please see our Machinery Information area or please contact ASCO via this site or by (313-491- or 800-899-) to speak with a representative.

What materials are you capable of welding?

Any pre-finished anodized, painted, or brushed material should not be welded. The welding process will cause excessive damage to the finish.

ASCO's fabrication staff is primarily experienced in the welding of aluminum. Typically, the welding of other materials, such as stainless steel, is not done in-house. For more specific information regarding our welding capabilities, please please contact ASCO via this site or by (313-491- or 800-899-) to speak with a fabrication representative.

What happens to thick or hard alloy aluminum when it is bent?

None of the strong or structural alloys can be brake formed unless they are in either the O or the T-4 temper. The common T-6 temper is quite hard, and when bent even minimally may crack.

Thinner material in the series alloys can be bent with relative ease. In most applications, thicker material of the H32 alloy cannot be formed at an angle tighter than 90.˚ After reaching 90˚, severe crazing and cracking will occur on the bent corner. If the material is subjected to further stress while bending, it often breaks entirely.

ASCO has had the most success bending H14 and H34 aluminum. These alloys are recommended for the majority of fabrication applications, as they are extremely workable. They can easily be cut, bent, and welded, and typically achieve the most favorable results.

How will bending affect the anodized or painted finish on a material?

When thinner material is pre-finished, bending generally has little effect. Any slight crazing at the corner is generally imperceptible.

Other than a few standard anodized colors, thicker material (.090+) is not available in pre-finished anodized or paint. In most cases, thicker material needs to be post-anodized or painted, which can help slightly reduce the appearance of crazing along the corners.

I have a very large fabrication job with a very tight schedule. Is ASCO equipped to handle large, complex jobs?

ASCO is experienced in handling fabrication jobs of any size, ranging from architectural panels to coping and gutter systems. Our years of experience allow us to fabricate your products quickly and accurately. For extremely demanding schedules, ASCO relies on a reliable network of industry resources to assist in the fabrication process.

It is recommended that all material required is thoroughly reviewed by our fabrication staff prior to issuing an accurate lead time. Please send all available drawings and supplementary information to ASCO via fax or the contact form on this site, and a fabrication representative will respond as soon as possible.

What is the approximate lead time for the typical fabrication order?

If the required material is in stock, the typical lead time is 3-5 working days on most fabrication orders. This is entirely dependant on the current work load, so please contact ASCO via (313-491- or 800-899-) to obtain accurate lead time information. Fabrication representativesare available in the office Monday through Friday from 8 AM until 4:00 PM.

Do you have industry-accepted standards for various types of common architectural products?

ASCO fabricates Factory Mutual approved coping, fascia, and gravel stops. We also have standard configurations for gutters, downspouts, scuppers, reglets, standing seam roofing, and more. The ASCO staff is experienced in designing and fabricating many architectural products ranging anywhere from exterior wall panels to thru-wall flashings.

Most material is fabricated to the customer's exact specifications. All finished dimensions must be supplied or approved by the customer prior to fabrication.

If you are interested in any of our products, please contact ASCO via this site or by (313-491- or 800-899-) for more information.

What does ASCO do to ensure the material is accurately fabricated?

At ASCO, our pride is in our product. We take every measure to ensure all parts are fabricated quickly and accurately. All dimensions are checked and verified to minimize errors, and most issues are corrected before the material ever leaves our facility.

In the event that ASCO fabricates something incorrectly, we will investigate the situation and replace the parts at no charge if it was our mistake.

I encountered a unique and troublesome situation in the field and I am unsure what would be required to remedy the issue. How can ASCO help?

ASCO can send an experienced member of our fabrication team out for an on-site consultation. We can help guide you through the fabrication process and offer some recommendations based upon your existing conditions. To ensure accuracy, cost estimates and lead times will be established by the same representative that was present at the job site. Drawings of the existing conditions and ASCO's potential solution will be provided for approval prior to fabrication.

If you are interested in setting up an on-site consultation, please contact ASCO.

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for information regarding technical advice.

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Aluminum Gutters Buying Guide

Seamless aluminum gutters are the universal choice for homeowners and contractors alike for capturing and diverting rainwater from a building's roof. Available in over 20 pre-finished colors, aluminum rain gutters are effective, durable, and extremely cost effective. 

Widely available and relatively easy to install, they are the ideal guttering system for a successful home improvement project.   

Benefits of Using Aluminum Gutters

• Corrosion resistant - Aluminum is the most popular material used for fabricating gutters because of its corrosion resistance to the elements as it wont rust and decay over time. 
  
  

• Cost-effective - Aluminum is widely available, recyclable, and long lasting and this makes it a great long term investment over time compared to other metals used in gutter systems.
  
  

• Light and easy to work with - Aluminum gutters are relatively lightweight compared to steel gutter systems and are easier to cut, install and fasten to the building. 
   

• Long-lasting - Aluminum gutters have a high tensile strength, are durable, and wont rust and thus can last for many decades.     
  
  

• Can withstand temperature changes - Expansion and contraction of aluminum gutters is a natural property of the material. There will be less volatility with heavier gauge gutters and an important reason to go with a contractor grade product as opposed to what is offered at the box store chains.
  
  

 

Aluminum Gutter Installation

There are different applications depending on the eave construction and the profile of the gutter being installed, but the general concepts for each of these are very similar.  Here we will describe what is needed to install a typical k style aluminum gutter on a standard flat fascia.  

The tools necessary for a seamless gutter installation include: Tape measure, tin snips, drill, nut driver, caulk gun, crimpers (or pliers), and a level or chalk line. Those that want to use rivets in lieu of screws would need an drill bit and a rivet gun. 

The steps for an aluminum gutter installation are as follows:

 

• Measure the eave of the gutter to get the overall length. Be sure to include the outside edge of the shingles in the measurements for gutters that terminate at the gable end of the roof.
  
  

• Run a bead of sealant along the inside of the back, bottom, and face of the gutter at each end that is receiving an end cap or a miter piece.
  
  

• Attach the end caps and miters to the gutter using zip screws or rivets.
  
  

• Cut a hole in the bottom of the gutter that will allow for the installation of the outlet tube. Insert the outlet tube so that the flange of the outlet tube rests inside the gutter. Attach the outlet tube to the gutter with rivets or screws and apply a bead of sealant on the inside of the gutter.
  
  

• Start by fastening one end of the gutter to the fascia with a 1.5 screw. Typically, you should start at the point furthest away from the downspout. The back, top edge of the gutter should be level (at the same height) with the top of the wood fascia. 
  
  

• Use a level or a chalk line so that the gutter is pitched to drain towards the downspout. A 4 ft. level or chalk line can be used to pitch the gutter per 10 ft.
  
  

• After the gutter is pitched properly, the gutter hangers can be installed. Ideally, hangers get installed into the rafter ends with a 1.5 screw and placed approximately 24 apart. Hangers should be level across the gutter and be fastened through the top of the back of the gutter.
  
  

• Two elbows are often needed to allow the downspout to span the eave and to the house. The top (or higher) elbows should slip inside of the elbows and downspouts below (or lower) so that water is diverted directly to the piece below. Use the crimper (or pliers) on the bottom end of the elbow/downspout to allow it to fit inside the next piece. Use zip screws or rivets to fasten each elbow and downspout together.  
  
  

• Attach pipebands or pipe clips to the wall of the home using the 1.5 screws. We recommend two straps for most one story applications and 3 straps for most 2 story applications.
  
  

• Cut the downspouts and elbows down to the proper size using the tin snips.  
  
  

• Attach the downspout to the downspout straps with the zip screws or rivets.  
  
  

• Install an elbow at the bottom of the downspout (at grade) to divert water away from the foundation.  
  
  

• Install downspout extensions or splash blocks as necessary to get the water further away from the home.  
  
  

 

Types of Aluminum Gutter Styles

Aluminum is the most commonly used material used for installing gutters and thus available in a number of sizes, profiles and colors.

K style aluminum gutters are far and away the most popular and widely available of all of the gutter systems. Available in 5, 6, 7, and 8 sizes and in over 20 colors, K style gutters are made with roll forming machines. The gutter machine mounts in a work truck or pick up truck where the gutters can be made onsite. Making them on the jobsite allows them to be made to the exact measurements of the home. 

Half round aluminum gutters are the preferred system for traditional and historic homes. The round shape is simple yet stylish and blends well with crown moldings, exposed rafter tails, and beadboard soffits. The round shape forces the water to drain out faster and is more effective in washing debris through the system than that of a K style gutter system.

Half round aluminum gutters are available in 5, 6, 7 and 8 sizes and in over 20 pre-finished colors. Plain round and round corrugated downspouts are the profiles of choice when installing a half round gutter system.       

Other Gutter Materials To Consider for Your Home

 

• Vinyl Gutters- Vinyl gutters are typically available in two different colors and sold at the major box stores. They come with several types of fittings for the DIY installer. The installation takes considerably longer than an aluminum installation but requires less industry experience and less tools and equipment.  

• Copper Gutters - Copper gutters are a great long term investment as they will last longer and require less maintenance over the life of the product. Lasting more than 75 years, copper gutters require a crafted tradesperson to properly solder the joints.   

• Galvanized Steel Gutters - Galvanized gutters were the primary material used for guttering before aluminum gutters became the standard. Galvanized is steel that has an aluminum zinc coating that helps protect it from rust and corrosion. They have a higher tensile strength than aluminum and will require painting after they weather the elements.

• Euro Copper Gutters - Our Euro line of copper gutters are imported from Europe and made in metric sizes.  Some of the benefits include seamless downspouts and miters that dont have a lock seam and thus dont need to be soldered.

• Freedom Gray Copper Gutters - Freedom Gray copper is the industry's answer to a long lasting, non corrosive metal without the patina process that turns green. Freedom Gray will patina and age over time but will keep its gray finish throughout its life cycle.

• Galvalume Gutters - Galvalume gutters have a steel substrate with an aluminum and zinc coating to protect it from the elements. Our galvalume gutters are mill finish and do not come with a paint finish like our lie of aluminum gutters.    

• Zinc Gutters - Zinc gutters are capable of lasting as long as copper gutters. Over time and as it ages, zinc will form a protective layer that protects it from decaying.  Maintenance of zinc gutters will be similar to that of copper and aluminum gutters.  

• Mill Finish Aluminum Gutters - Our line of mill finish gutters are for those that want an unpainted appearance or want a custom color. They come ready to paint and are a great solution for both k style and half round applications.  

• Paint Grip Steel Gutters - Paint grip steel gutters are made from bonderized steel and ready for paint. Unlike galvanized and galvalume gutters, paint grip gutters do not have a zinc or aluminum coating. The absence of those coatings allow the gutters to be immediately painted where the coated gutters need to weather for about a year before they are ready to accept paint.  

 

Aluminum Gutters FAQ

What lengths do your aluminum gutters come in?

Our aluminum gutters are available in custom lengths and are made to order. We offer jobsite delivery to our local customers and can run as long a length that is required. Our custom crates are made for common carrier shipments where we can ship lengths up to 20 ft. long anywhere in the US or Canada.

Is it easy to install your own gutters?

While aluminum gutters are often installed by an experienced gutter contractor, we have a regular flow of DIY customers who are able to successfully install our products. If you are handy and comfortable working with a drill, some tin snips and can read a level you can install an aluminum gutter system on your home.  

Are seamless gutters worth it? 

Seamless gutters are a great choice for DIY homeowners and contractors alike. The k style aluminum gutter is the easiest to install while having low upfront costs and low maintenance costs. Its a rust free, corrosion resistant product with polished appearance that is durable and will last for decades to come.

The company is the world’s best china painted aluminium coil for shutter boxes manufacturer supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.