Gutters are made from a variety of materials, each with different strengths, appearances, profiles, and costs. Aluminum - Lightweight. Joining systems vary. Continuous gutters (without joints) can be made on-site by specialists to suit your requirements. Plastic (Vinyl) - Lightweight, and easy to work with. Sections clip together. Requires only minimal maintenance. Copper - Durable and easy to install. With time, the bright finish weathers to an attractive verdigris (green patina). Cast Iron - Traditional and hardwearing, but extremely heavy. Iron needs to be painted. Sections are joined with mastic, nuts, and bolts.