It is unfortunate that we can’t put up copper gutters in any neighborhood. It’s not even just the really run-down neighborhoods as well. Copper gutters are reported being stolen in many cities across the nation. It doesn’t seem like it is really going to end.
Why do people steal copper gutters?
Well they steal them for the same reason most people steal things–to make money. Copper gutters are expensive! People steal them and take them to nearby metal recyclers to sell for some quick cash. This is one downside to having these copper gutters being recyclable. So something that costs you hundreds or thousands are being scrapped at a fraction of the price. This is an outrage!
How much damage does it do?
Aside from the upfront cost of just replacing the gutters and installing them again, it may cost us a lot more in the end. Thieves are ripping out our gutters and we can only be lucky enough that even plastic replacement parts are put in its place. If only small gutter parts are removed slowly, you may not even notice missing pieces. This can cause water leaking into places your gutter system was designed to keep water out of in the first place!
What can we do about it?
Some people resort to using fake copper gutters. This may be either copper lined steel or aluminum, or even a coating of copper paint on any material gutters. I believe this still attracts the thieves. You may try some theft deterrent like video cameras or warning signs. Maybe the best solution would be to contact your local metal recycling places and warning them of this theft. In reality, how many people would actually be recycling brand new, or used copper gutters that still look great? They should be taking this into consideration when buying used metal from people.