By Katie Flannery | Updated May 24, 2022 3:37 PM

Gutters protect your home from water damage and stave off soil erosion. When considering gutter installation cost, it helps to know the additional factors and considerations that might not immediately come to mind. According to HomeAdvisor, gutter installation costs between $585 and $1,535 for 200 feet, with the national average at $1,057. Gutter material directly affects the price, and vinyl is the most budget-friendly option at $3 to $5 per linear foot. Aluminum ranges from $6 to $12, and steel runs from $9 to $20. Expect to pay from $25 to $40 or more per linear foot for copper gutters. Labor costs are usually included with the price of materials. The exact cost to install gutters also depends on the home’s architectural style and the number of stories as well as gutter size, labor cost, and whether the gutters are seamed or seamless. To get the best prices in your area, search online for “gutter installation near me.”

To calculate how much material you need, divide the square footage of your home by 10. A 2,000-square-foot home getting vinyl gutters costing $5 per linear foot would need at least 200 linear feet of gutter material. Take that number and multiply it by the price of the gutter material.

2,000 square feet / 10 = 200 linear feet of material x $5 = $1,000

Calculating gutter installation cost depends on several factors. Prices can differ from the national average due to labor costs in your area; removal of old gutters; gutter type, size, style, and material; the home’s size; location and climate; and the number of downspouts needed.

Labor costs can total 50 to 60 percent of gutter installation cost or about $5 to $7 per linear foot for seamless gutters. Multistory homes will cost more since it takes more time and effort to install the gutters. To get an estimate, go online and search for “gutters near me.”

Gutter replacement involves removing and disposing of the old gutters, and contractors usually charge around $100 for this service. If the gutters are challenging to remove or the material is troublesome to recycle, it may cost more.

Gutters come in several styles, and they each have their own price considerations. K-style gutters are the most common style. They hold the most water and work well with sloped roofing materials. Depending on the material, these K-shaped gutters average $3 to $23 per linear foot. U-style, or half-round, is a more traditional gutter shape. They don’t hold as much water as K-style gutters, and they need brackets to be held in place. They cost between $4 and $25 per linear foot. Decorative fascia-style gutters are custom built with limited material types. They average $5 to $10 per linear foot. Some of the most common gutter materials are copper, steel, aluminum, vinyl, and zinc. The material type will also affect the overall price of gutter installation. Gutters come in 4-, 5-, and 6-inch widths, and some are adjustable.

There are two types of gutters: seamless and sectional. Sectional gutters come in lengths of 5-, 10-, and 15-foot precut sections joined on-site. Sectional gutters average $3 to $20 per linear foot. Seamless gutters can cost between $800 and $5,000, or $4 to $30 per linear foot, depending on the material and how much is needed. Seamless gutters are cut on-site to fit your home and, because they’re custom and take longer to install, they’re more expensive. Some benefits of seamless gutters are resisting leaks, lasting longer than sectional gutters, and creating a sleek visual line on your home.

The larger the home, the more the gutter installation project will cost. The exact number of linear feet of material needed depends on how many stories your home is, the architectural style, and how many downspouts are needed. A one-story home averages $1,200, and a two-story home can cost $2,000.

Homes in regions that get a lot of rainfall need to have high-capacity gutters with flashing to accommodate the amount of water. If you live in an area that experiences freeze-thaw cycles, certain materials like vinyl aren’t recommended because they will crack and cause leaks. In regions where wildfires are a threat, metal gutters are needed.

The cost of downspouts varies due to the construction material and the height of your home. The taller the house, the longer the downspout. Downspouts can be rectangular or round and seamed or seamless. Seamless downspouts cost a bit more than their seamed counterparts. Downspout material costs an average of $3 to $30 per linear foot and from $30 to $50 for installation per downspout.

When budgeting to cover gutter installation costs, there are usually additional price factors and considerations. These can include the addition of garage gutters, gutter guards, gutter painting, cleaning and maintenance, wire mesh screens, heat tape, downspout extensions, and home repairs.

If you have a separate garage, it’s recommended to install gutters there as well. Installing gutters will help protect the foundation from water damage and extend the life of the structure.

Gutter guards average $7 to $12 per linear foot. Gutter guards prevent leaves and other debris from blocking the gutters. Consider higher quality guards since they won’t rust or erode.

Some gutters can be painted to improve the overall look. The average cost to paint gutters is around $2 per linear foot, and some contractors have a $500 minimum.

Gutter cleaning usually costs between $100 and $200. It’s essential to clean and maintain gutters to prevent blockage and extend the gutter system’s life.

Wire mesh screens fit over the top of the gutter and prevent debris and bugs from getting into the gutter. They usually cost around $1 per linear foot.

For those who live in colder regions, heat tape, also known as electric de-icing wire, is a good option. Freezing can cause considerable damage to gutters, and heat tape will prevent them from icing over. A watertight outdoor outlet is needed to use heat tape. If you don’t have one, you can get one installed for between $200 and $500 on average. Heat tape costs around $77 per 100 feet.

Downspout extensions direct water away from the home and can cost between $10 and $50, depending on the type and length. Expect to pay an additional $30 to $100 for installation costs. Some professionals may include the price of any additional accessories in the estimate, but always ask to make sure.

Before gutters are installed, any home repairs will need to be completed. If the roof or siding is damaged, the gutter installation will be postponed. If gutters need to be moved, siding may need to be replaced or painted. Damaged and old gutters can cause water damage, an eroding foundation, roof rot, and mold growth.

The type of gutter material you choose will affect the cost of installation. Each material has its benefits, and some materials are more suited to certain climates than others. The following are the most common gutter materials.

Expect to pay $25 to $40 or more per linear foot for copper gutters, and downspouts start at $17 per foot. This is the most expensive gutter material, and it’s valued for its changing patina. Keep in mind that copper gutters are at risk of being stolen due to the value of the material.

Steel gutters can cost from $9 to $20 per linear foot, and downspouts are about $10 per foot. Steel is durable, long lasting, and is recommended for homes in regions with severe weather.

Aluminum is one of the most popular materials. It’s lightweight, comes in a variety of colors, and can be painted. Aluminum gutters are not as sturdy as steel and will damage easily. This material runs from $6 to $12 per linear foot, and downspouts average $5 to $8 per foot.

Vinyl is a budget-friendly option at $3 to $5 per linear foot and $5 to $8 per foot for downspouts. Vinyl is suitable for homes in mild climates, but it’s not recommended if you live in a location with extreme weather or risk of wildfires. Vinyl gutters typically need to be replaced more frequently than other materials.

Zinc averages $20 to $25 per linear foot. It’s commonly used in historic homes and will develop an attractive patina over time.

The average price of galvanized gutters is approximately $700. They are a budget-friendly option, but they can crack and expand in extreme heat. Galvanized gutters are available as a seamless option and can be painted to match your home’s exterior.

Gutters protect your home from flooding, water damage, and potential mold growth. If you’re unsure how old your gutters are, there are a few red flags that signal when gutter replacement is necessary. If you notice damage, basement flooding, peeling paint, rot, mildew, eroded landscaping, or pooling water, chances are you need new gutters.

Holes, cracks, rust spots, and sagging are evidence of damaged gutters. Leaking gutters can cause basement flooding, water damage, rot, mold, and foundation damage. It’s more cost-effective to replace the gutters than deal with the individual consequences of a damaged gutter system.

Water that isn’t directed away from the foundation can end up in the basement. Water damage and mold growth in the basement may signify that the gutters are clogged or corroded. Basement flooding can cause severe and costly damage.

House paint can peel and bubble if there’s a leak or the gutter has pulled away from the side of the house. Peeling paint is a sign that it’s been happening for some time, and the gutters need to be replaced.

Rotting window and doorframes can be a sign of malfunctioning gutters. When the paint begins to peel, and there is no protection from the elements, wood will rot. Mildew growth in basements can be caused by water seeping into the house via the foundation due to broken and damaged gutters.

If you notice your landscaping is flooded or eroded after it rains, it’s probably the fault of a defective gutter system. Instead of constantly treating the symptom, consider replacing the gutters to fix the problem.

Pooling water around the foundation can seep into the basement and cause water damage, mold growth, and rot and can attract insects. Having gutters in good working order and a properly sloped downspout will help eliminate water pools near your home.

Installing new gutters can improve the appearance of your home and protect against roof, foundation, and basement damage. Old and damaged gutters are not only an eyesore, but they can also cost more money over time with maintenance and repairs. Here are some benefits of getting new gutters.

Old and sagging gutters can negatively affect a home’s curb appeal. Leaking gutters can also cause streaks and stains on a home’s exterior. A new gutter system improves the overall curb appeal and adds to a home’s marketability.

Water can pool on the roof if gutters are clogged or broken. Standing water can cause leaks and damage the roof, soffits, and fascia. Costly roof repair or replacement can be avoided with properly working gutters.

An old gutter system requires frequent repairs and maintenance, while a new one doesn’t need as much attention. Gutters that leak and overflow can cause slippery areas or attract insects to standing water. Clogged gutters can freeze in cold weather and cause the gutters to crack.

If you don’t know how to install gutters, it’s a project that’s best left to the professionals. If you attempt gutter installation or replacement on your own, you may not accurately measure for materials, you could fall and injure yourself, or you might damage your house. Hiring a professional will guarantee that the job is done correctly with the right tools and materials. Keep in mind that it may also take you longer to install gutters than a professional can complete the project. Gutter installation can take professionals 6 to 8 hours, so you’d have to allow yourself considerably more time. If you damage your home during installation, fixing the mistakes and repairs could cost more than it would have if you had hired a professional from the start. Hanging gutters is harder than it looks. If they’re installed at the wrong angle, incorrectly fastened, or improperly positioned, they can do more harm than good.

Gutter installation costs can be pricey, and the additional costs associated with the project can quickly add up. One way to save on gutter installation is to buy the cheapest material, but there are other ways to save without compromising quality.

Asking a professional the right questions about gutter installation can minimize miscommunication, save money, and get the desired results. Here are some questions to ask about gutter installation costs.

Deciding on the right gutters for your home while staying within your budget can be a daunting process. Here are some frequently asked questions about gutter installation costs to help guide you in your decisions.

Gutters can last up to 20 years with proper care and maintenance. Copper gutters can last up to 50 years.

Not exactly, but gutters in poor condition will detract value. Gutters in good working condition will add to the curb appeal of a home.

Houses with steep roofs or located in regions with heavy rainfall need wider gutters and more downspouts to accommodate the amount of water. Gutters commonly come in 4-, 5-, and 6-inch widths. A K-style gutter can hold 1.5 gallons of water, while a 6-inch half-round gutter can handle 2 gallons.

Sources: HomeAdvisor, Fixr, HomeLight, HomeGuide, Homeserve

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