How Much Do Gutters Cost?
The average cost to install gutters is $1,700, but prices can range from $200 to $8,000 depending on multiple factors. The cost is around $1,200 for single-story homes.
You should expect to pay between $5 and $35 per linear foot of gutter installation, all costs included. If you need to install 200 feet of gutters, expect to pay between $1,000 and $7,000. Let’s break down all the factors that influence the cost of a gutter installation project.
Factors Affecting Gutter Installation or Replacement Cost
The most important ones are the size of the gutter system, the gutter materials, the number of stories the home has, and labor costs.
Size of the Gutter System
An average American home is 2,500 sq. ft. You’d need about 200 linear feet of gutters for a house this size.
Affordable gutters cost between $3 and $6 per linear foot. However, higher-end gutters cost $25 to more than $40 per linear foot. This means a 200-foot gutter system could cost as cheap as $600 or as high as $8,000 without accounting for installation and other costs.
Gutter Material
Gutters come in different materials, some more affordable than others, each with strengths and weaknesses.
| Material | Description | Cost per linear foot | Cost with labor included ($2 - $7 extra per foot) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | The most common material. Vulnerable to impacts but doesn’t rust. | $2 - $10 | $4 - $17 |
| Copper | Extremely durable but costly compared to other materials. Installation requires special tools. | $18 - $32 | $20 - $39 |
| Galvanized Steel | It can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance. Recommended for stormy areas and salty air. | $5 - $12 | $7 - $19 |
| Stainless Steel | It can last you a lifetime if you maintain it well, but it requires extra maintenance. | $9 - $20 | $11 - $27 |
| Vinyl | Affordable and lasts long. It is only recommended for moderate climates because it doesn't take heat or cold well. | $2 - $6 | $4 - $13 |
| Zinc | It lasts around 80 years and is very weather-resistant. | $20 | $22 - $27 |
| Wood | It looks great but is more prone to rot. It’s better for homes in dry areas. | $20 - $30 | $22 - $37 |
Number of Stories
Two- and three-story homes require more gutters and cost significantly more (in materials and labor). Gutter installation costs around $1,200 in a one-story house. But this price can double, triple, or even more for multi-story homes.
Installation Labor Costs
Labor costs $75 per hour or $2 to $7 per linear foot. Labor can represent up to 60% of the total project cost.
Remember that some materials are more complicated to install or require special equipment, meaning the costs per foot may vary significantly. For example, copper tends to be more complex to install and costs more than some alternatives.
Downspouts
Downspouts are vertical pipes that drain the water collected in the gutters, directing away from the roof and walls. You’ll need three to six downspouts every 25 to 40 feet. These are the most common types and their prices.
- Vinyl downspouts – $5 to $8 per foot
- Aluminum downspouts – $9 to $12 per foot
- Copper downspouts – $17 per foot
Location and Climate
Labor and gutter costs vary throughout the country, so that the project may cost more or less based on location. Additionally, some areas require paying for permits for certain gutter installation permits.
Other ways climate and location affect installation prices include:
- Rainfall. Homeowners in heavy rainfall areas may need to invest in higher-capacity gutters.
- Forest fire risks. Homeowners in regions with a high risk of forest fires need to install metal gutters.
- Cold areas. If you live in a colder climate, you may want to invest in heat tape to prevent ice from blocking the gutters.
Gutter Style
Like materials, there are multiple gutter styles. Some are simple and affordable, while others provide additional features that increase the price. Sectional gutters come in pre-cut lengths (10 feet), and installers must attach the seams with waterproof caulk. Seamless gutters require installers to bring a portable gutter machine to the home. The machine creates seamless gutters out of vinyl or metal. Seamless gutters cost more but are less prone to leak.
| Gutter style | Description | Cost per linear foot |
|---|---|---|
| K-Style | The most common type. They hold a significant amount of water. | $3 to $25 |
| V-Style | Custom-made gutters are made of wood. They come in variable widths. | $9 to $32 |
| U-Shaped or Half-Round | Hold less water than K-style gutters. | $4 and $25 |
| Fascia | Gutters with an emphasis on decoration. Used on steep roofs because they can handle heavy flow. | $4 to $30 |
Cleaning and Repair
Cleaning gutters costs $105 to $190 for the entire system. Gutter repair costs around $330 for the entire system. Additionally, roof repairs before the installation may cost up to $1,600, depending on severity.
Other Factors to Consider
These additional factors may not be relevant for every project but may be necessary.
Removal of Old Gutters
If you have old gutters you must remove before installing new ones, it’ll cost you approximately $100 to $200 or around $0.65 to $0.85 per linear foot to remove them. That’s between $130 and $170 for 200 feet of old gutters.
Add-Ons
Add-ons are extra materials or parts some homeowners may need or want for their gutters.
- Heat tape. Heat tape is a cable that heats up with electricity and is placed along the eaves to prevent ice dams. It costs $1 to $6 per linear foot.
- Splash blocks. Splash blocks redirect the water flowing from the downspouts away from the foundation. You should buy one per downspout. They cost around $8 to $10 each.
- Gutter guards. Gutter guards cover the gutters to prevent debris (twigs, leaves, etc.) from entering and clogging it. They can be a significant investment, costing $7 to $12 per linear foot. That could add up to $1,200 for every 100 feet of gutters. However, preventing clogs improves the gutters’ lifespan and prevents water damage to the home.
Gutter Replacement Costs: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Some people are experienced enough to install their gutters. For them, installing them is a matter of buying the gutters and any necessary add-ons. 200 feet of gutters plus gutter guards will cost between $2,500 and $9,500. They’ll also need to purchase the tools, caulk for attaching the gutters, and more.
Installing gutters yourself is not optimal unless you have prior experience. Professionals need around six to ten hours to install them, which will take significantly longer. It can also be risky to work on a ladder.
FAQs
How much does it cost to replace gutters around the house?
Replacing gutters involves removing the old ones and installing the new ones. Removing gutters costs $0.65 to $0.85 per foot, and gutters cost $5 to $35 per foot. Replacing 100 feet of gutters would cost between $565 and $3,585.
Does replacing gutters add value to a home?
Yes. Replacing gutters could slightly increase a home’s value. It also gives potential buyers the security of knowing they won’t have to worry about water damage, one of the most common types of property damage.
Is it cheaper to install your own gutters?
Yes, installing your own gutters is cheaper because you save on labor costs, which can add up to 60% of the total materials and installation costs. However, installing gutters takes skill and experience that most people don’t have and can take time to develop. It can also be risky to work on a ladder. Only install your own gutters if you know what you’re doing.
When should gutters be replaced?
You should replace gutters when they show visible damage, are rusted, have peeling paint, get frequent clogs or leaks, have built-up mold, or are over 20 or 30 years old (for most materials).