Plastic (PVCu) Guttering

How much does plastic guttering cost?

Plastic guttering is one of the most affordable options for guttering. Costs vary depending on the profile, size, and length, but they are generally cheaper than metal alternatives like aluminium or cast iron, making them ideal for budget-conscious projects.

How long do plastic rain gutters last?

Plastic (PVC) gutters typically last 20–30 years with proper installation and basic maintenance. They are durable, lightweight, and resistant to corrosion, making them a long-term solution for most residential properties.

Can I buy plastic gutters which look like cast iron gutters?

Yes. There are plastic guttering profiles designed to replicate the look of cast iron, such as ogee or decorative half-round styles. These offer the heritage appearance of traditional gutters but with the lightweight and low-maintenance benefits of PVC. Our Brett Martin Cascade range is ideal if you’re looking for plastic gutters that replicate the look of cast iron.

Are plastic gutters suitable for all property types?

Plastic gutters are versatile and suitable for most residential and smaller commercial properties. They work well on both modern and traditional homes. However, for large-scale commercial or heritage buildings, metal options may sometimes be preferred for their strength or authenticity.

What colours do plastic gutters come in?

Plastic guttering is available in a variety of colours, including white, black, brown, grey, and cream, with modern homes now favouring anthracite grey RAL 7016. Powder-coated or coloured PVC options allow you to match your gutters to your roofline or cladding.

Do plastic gutters fade in sunlight?

High-quality PVC gutters are UV-stabilised, which means they are resistant to fading in sunlight. Over many years, some slight colour change may occur, but they maintain their appearance much longer than unprotected plastics.

Why do we still mainly use plastic gutters and not metal here in the UK?

Plastic gutters are the most popular choice in the UK due to their lightweight nature, ease of installation, cost-effectiveness, and resistance to corrosion. They require minimal maintenance and can be installed quickly on a wide range of property types, making them ideal for modern building practices.

Are plastic gutters recyclable?

Yes, PVC guttering is fully recyclable at the end of its life. It can be reprocessed into new plastic products, making it a sustainable option when replaced responsibly.

What are the disadvantages of using plastic gutters over metal?

While plastic gutters are cost-effective and lightweight, they are generally less strong than metal gutters and may sag or crack under extreme weight (heavy snow or water). They also may not achieve the same heritage aesthetic as cast iron or aluminium for period properties.

What is the best way to clean plastic guttering?

Plastic gutters are easy to clean. Simply remove leaves and debris with a gutter scoop or garden hose. For stubborn dirt or algae, a mild detergent solution can be used, followed by a rinse with clean water. Regular cleaning ensures the system functions efficiently.

Are all plastic gutters made by UK manufacturers compatible with each other?

Generally, only the 112mm half-round profile is compatible across manufacturers. Square, deep, large-capacity, and industrial profiles are all made to different sizes and standards, so parts must be purchased from the same manufacturer to ensure a proper fit.

How much weight can plastic gutters handle?

PVC gutters are strong but lightweight. Standard residential plastic gutters can handle typical rainfall and debris loads, but excessive weight from snow, ice, or clogged debris may cause sagging. Proper bracket spacing and regular maintenance help prevent issues.

What profiles do plastic gutters come in?

Plastic guttering is available in several profiles to suit different property styles:

Half-round – classic and versatile, suitable for most homes.

Ogee (Victorian style) – decorative, often used for heritage or traditional homes.

Square or deep gutters – larger capacity for heavy rainfall or larger roofs.

Each profile comes with matching accessories, including downpipes, elbows, stop ends, and outlets, to create a complete system.