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Highlights
- The typical range for gutter installation cost is $622 to $1,677, with a national average of $1,135.
- The style and material of the gutters as well as the home size, labor costs, climate and region, and number of downspouts can all affect the cost of gutter installation.
- Homeowners may need to install new gutters if their current gutters are damaged or if they are experiencing basement flooding, peeling paint, rotting and mildew, eroded landscaping, or pooling water.
- In most cases, it is advised that homeowners hire professional gutter installers for this project. Incorrect installation can cause severe damage to a home, and working high on a ladder poses a significant risk of injury to a homeowner.
Gutters protect a home from water damage and stave off soil erosion. When considering gutter installation cost, homeowners will want to know the cost factors and considerations, some of which might not immediately come to mind. So how much does gutter installation cost? According to HomeAdvisor, most homeowners pay between $622 and $1,677, with the national average at $1,135. Gutter material directly affects the price, and vinyl is the most budget-friendly option at $3 to $6 per linear foot. Aluminum ranges from $4 to $14, and steel runs from $9 to $20. Homeowners can 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 the difference in cost between seamed and seamless gutters. To get the best prices in a specific area, homeowners can search online for “gutter installation near me.”
How to Calculate Gutter Installation Cost
According to Angi, the first step in calculating gutter installation cost is to find the square footage of the roof. To do this, the homeowner will multiply the length times the width of each section of the roof. These products can all be added together to find the total square footage of the roof.
To calculate how much material is needed, the homeowner will first need to divide the square footage of the roof by 10. For example, a 2,000-square-foot home getting vinyl gutters costing $5 per linear foot will need at least 200 linear feet of gutter material. The homeowner will then 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
The other necessary measurements are the pitch of the roof, the current gutter width, and the gutter length in linear feet. Pitch can be calculated using a level by holding it with one end on the plane of the roof—it’s recommended that a homeowner leave this to a roofing professional unless they have experience on roofs or have no qualms about being up high. The homeowner or roofing pro will measure a foot from the base of the level, then from that point to the top of the level—this length is the pitch. Professional installers may ask for these measurements ahead of time or calculate them themselves.
Factors in Calculating Gutter Installation Cost
Calculating gutter installation cost depends on several factors. Gutter installation cost per foot can differ from the national average due to labor costs in an area; removal of old gutters; gutter type, size, style, and material; the home’s size; location and climate; and the number of downspouts needed.
Gutter Style
There are several types of rain gutters, and each style has its own price considerations. K-style gutters are the most common. They hold the most water and work well with sloped roofing materials. Depending on the material, these K-shaped gutters average $3 to $25 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. European seamless gutters are similar, but they hold even more water. They cost between $12 and $25 per linear foot. Decorative fascia-style gutters are custom built with limited material types. They average $5 to $10 per linear foot. Another visually appealing option is Victorian ogee gutters, which have a traditional look that works well on period homes. This style costs between $8 and $15 per linear foot and may be hard to come by. Finally, V-style gutters are typically custom built to a home, often in wood. This means they come at a high price point of $9 to $32 per linear foot. Among these various styles, gutters come in 4-, 5-, and 6-inch widths, and some are adjustable.
Gutter Material
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. Vinyl is one of the most affordable options, costing about $3 to $6 per linear foot. Mid-range options like aluminum and galvanized steel can cost anywhere from $4 to $14. The most expensive gutter materials are wood and copper, with the latter reaching as much as $40 per linear foot. Gutter materials are covered in more detail below.
Home Size and Number of Stories
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 the home is, the architectural style, and the number of downspouts needed. A one-story home averages $1,200, and a two-story home can cost $2,000. The average costs per gutter length are shown in the following table.
| Gutter Length in Linear Feet | Cost |
| 50 | $250 to $750 |
| 100 | $500 to $1,500 |
| 150 | $750 to $2,300 |
| 200 | $1,000 to $3,000 |
| 250 | $1,250 to $3,800 |
| 300 | $1,500 to $4,500 |
Labor
Labor costs can differ for sectional and seamless gutters. Sectional gutters cost $2 to $6 per foot for labor, while seamless gutters cost $3 to $10 per foot for labor. Installing gutters on multistory homes also costs more, since it takes more time and effort to install them; homeowners can expect to add about $1 to $3 per linear foot for each additional story. To get a cost estimate, homeowners can go online and search for “gutters near me” to find a local installation company.
Climate and Region
The climate and region where the home is located have a direct effect on the type and cost of gutters needed. Homes in regions that get a lot of rainfall need to have high-capacity gutters with flashing to accommodate the amount of water. For homeowners who 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. In some cases special add-ons are necessary; for instance, homes that are located in densely wooded areas may require the best gutter guards for pine needles. Some regions may also require homeowners to pay for permits before their gutter project can begin.
Downspouts
The cost of downspouts varies due to the construction material and the height of the 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. Vinyl downspouts cost about $5 to $8 per foot, and aluminum downspouts cost $9 to $12, while copper downspouts can cost $17 per foot and up.
Additional Costs and Considerations
When homeowners are budgeting to cover gutter installation costs, there are usually additional price factors and considerations to keep in mind. 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.
Seamless vs. Sectional Gutters
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. Seamless gutters are cut on-site to fit the home, and because they’re custom and take longer to install, they’re more expensive. Seamless gutters can cost between $800 and $5,000, depending on the material and the length needed. Some benefits of seamless gutters are their ability to resist leaks, last longer than sectional gutters, and create a sleek visual line on the home.
New Installation vs. Replacement
Gutter replacement costs around $0.65 to $0.85 per linear foot to remove and dispose of the old gutters—this will be on top of the price for installing new gutters in place of the old ones, which can drive up the total project costs. Gutter replacement is usually a job for a pro, but some homeowners may be able to remove the old gutters themselves to save on costs. If the gutters are challenging to remove or the material is troublesome to recycle, the project may cost more.
Home Repairs
Before gutters are installed, any related home repairs will need to be completed. If the roof or siding is damaged, the gutter installation will need to be postponed. Roof repairs can add an additional $360 to $1,550 to the project cost depending on the type of damage. Repairing flashing is a common need that falls on the lower end of this scale. 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. Gutter repair costs less than replacement initially, but paying for frequent repairs may quickly eclipse the cost of having new gutters installed.
Gutter Guards
Gutter guards can help prevent leaves and other debris from blocking the gutters, and this can help the system run more efficiently. Some homeowners may know how to install gutter guards themselves to save on labor. Otherwise, gutter guard installation costs $7 to $12 per linear foot. Homeowners will want to consider installing one of the best gutter guards, since they won’t rust or erode.
Downspout Extensions
Downspout extensions direct water away from the home and can cost between $10 and $50, depending on the type and length. Homeowners can 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 homeowners will always want to ask to make sure.
Gutter Cleaning and Maintenance
Gutter cleaning costs between $125 and $225. It’s essential to clean and maintain gutters to prevent blockage and extend the gutter system’s life. How often to clean gutters varies based on a home’s location, but generally homeowners are advised to do this task once or twice a year. Homeowners who prefer to do it themselves may consider investing in one of the best gutter cleaners to make doing this chore easier and more efficient.
Wire Mesh Screens
Wire mesh screens fit over the top of the gutter and prevent debris and bugs from getting into the gutter. Without this protection, a homeowner may find themselves dealing with an insect infestation in their gutters. It usually costs around $1 per linear foot to install wire mesh screens on a gutter.
Heat Tape
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. Heat tape costs around $1 to $6 per linear foot.
Downspout Screens
A downspout screen blocks leaves and other debris from getting into the downspout opening and causing clogs. On average, downspout screens cost about $8 apiece.
Gutter Foam
Gutter foam is another addition that prevents gutter clogging. Pieces of foam are fitted around the opening of the gutter so that water can be filtered through but leaves are blocked. Gutter foam costs $1.50 per linear foot.
Rodent Guards
Rodents are known to make nests in downspouts, blocking the gutters and causing them to overflow. Rodent guards fit on top of downspouts to block critters and prevent pest infestations; the guards cost about $5 each.
Gutter Flashing
Gutter flashing is made up of thin pieces of metal designed to prevent leaks and prevent water in the gutter from damaging the roof. Gutter flashing costs about $20 per length but can help homeowners save on major water damage repairs down the road. It may also be worth it for homeowners to consider applying one of the best gutter sealants for further leak prevention.
Splash Blocks
Splash blocks, which can be placed underneath a downspout, keep water from pooling around the foundation of the house by guiding the flow away from the building. Each splash block will cost around $10.
Gutter Installation Cost by Type of Gutter Material
The type of gutter material 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.
| Gutter Material | Cost per Linear Foot |
| Aluminum | $4 to $14 |
| Copper | $25 to $40 |
| Galvanized | $6 to $14 |
| Stainless steel | $9 to $20 |
| Vinyl | $3 to $6 |
| Zinc | $10 to $29 |
Aluminum
Aluminum is one of the most popular materials. It’s lightweight, comes in a variety of colors, and can be painted. However, aluminum gutters are not as sturdy as steel and will damage easily. This material runs about $4 to $14 per linear foot.
Copper
Homeowners can 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. It’s important for homeowners to keep in mind that copper gutters are at risk of being stolen due to the value of the material.
Galvanized
The average price of galvanized gutters is between $6 and $14 per linear foot. 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 the home’s exterior.
Stainless Steel
Steel gutters can cost from $9 to $20 per linear foot. Steel is durable, long lasting, and recommended for homes in regions with severe weather. When properly maintained, stainless steel gutters can last for the life of the home.
Vinyl
Vinyl is a budget-friendly option at $3 to $6 per linear foot. While it’s suitable for homes in mild climates, it’s not recommended in locations with extreme weather or risk of wildfires. Vinyl gutters typically need to be replaced more frequently than gutters made from other materials.
Zinc
Zinc gutters cost an average of $10 to $29 per linear foot to install. This material is commonly used in historic homes and will develop an attractive patina over time.
Do I Need to Install New Gutters?
Gutters protect a home from flooding, water damage, and potential mold growth. If a homeowner isn’t sure how old their gutters are, there are several signs that a home needs new gutters that they can watch out for. If there are any signs of damage, basement flooding, peeling paint, rot, mildew, eroded landscaping, or pooling water, chances are the gutters need replacement.
Gutter Damage
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.
Basement Flooding
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.
Peeling Paint
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 that the gutters need to be replaced.
Rotting and Mildew
Rotting window and door frames 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.
Eroded Landscaping
If the landscaping around the house is flooded or eroded after it rains, it’s probably the fault of a defective gutter system. Instead of constantly treating the symptom, the homeowner will want to consider replacing the gutters to fix the problem.
Pooling Water
Pooling water around the foundation can seep into the basement and cause water damage, mold growth, and rot and can attract insects as well. Having gutters in good working order and a properly sloped downspout will help eliminate water pools near the home.
Benefits of Gettings New Gutters
Installing gutters can improve the appearance of a 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. What follows are some benefits of getting new gutters.
Return on Investment and Curb Appeal
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.
Roof Protection
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.
Less Maintenance and Fewer Mishaps
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.
Gutter Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
For homeowners who don’t know how to install gutters, it’s a project that’s best left to the professionals. Those who attempt gutter installation or replacement on their own risk not accurately measuring for materials, falling and injuring themselves, or damaging the house. Hiring a professional will guarantee that the job is done correctly with the right tools and materials. Homeowners will want to keep in mind that it may also take longer to install gutters without the help of a professional. Gutter installation can take professionals 7 to 10 hours, so an inexperienced installer would have to allow for considerably more time. In the event that the home is damaged during installation, fixing the mistakes and repairs could cost more than it would have if a professional had been on the project from the start. Hanging gutters is also harder than it looks. If they’re installed at the wrong angle, incorrectly fastened, or improperly positioned, they can do more harm than good. A professional can also help the homeowner choose the best gutters for their home so they can feel confident that their investment will last for years to come.
How to Save Money on Gutter Installation Cost
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 on quality.
- Remove the old gutters yourself. If you feel comfortable climbing up a ladder and removing the old gutters, you may be able to save on removal and hauling costs. Keep in mind that if you damage your home, the installer will charge money to repair it.
- Schedule gutter installation during the off-season. Many gutter installation estimates will be higher during peak season. Gutter installation can be done during the colder months (weather permitting).
- Get multiple estimates. Shop around and contact gutter installation professionals near you to get a price that works with your budget.
- Check for deals and promotions. Many roofing and gutter professionals offer specials to do the job on certain days of the week or to combine gutter installation with other roofing repairs.
- Ask about discounts. Some gutter companies offer teacher, military, or senior citizen discounts.
Questions to Ask About Gutter Installation
Asking a professional the right questions about gutter installation can help homeowners minimize miscommunication, save money, and get the desired results. The following are some questions to ask about gutter installation costs.
- Are you insured and licensed?
- Do you have references?
- What type of warranty do you offer?
- How long will the installation take?
- Will you put the estimate in writing?
- Who will be doing the installation? How can I identify them?
- Do I need new gutters?
- Are gutter covers part of the installation?
- Do you use seamless or sectional gutters?
- What styles and materials do you offer?
- Can you repair any damage before installation?
- Do I need to be here for the installation?
- Will you clean up after the project?
- How long will the new gutters last?
- Do you offer a satisfaction guarantee?
FAQs
Choosing the right gutters while staying within budget can be a daunting process. What follows are some frequently asked questions about gutter installation costs to help guide these decisions.
Q. How long do gutters last?
Gutters can last up to 20 years with proper care and maintenance. Copper gutters can last up to 50 years. Regular maintenance will help extend the life of the gutters, so scheduling routine service with one of the best gutter cleaning companies can pay off in the long run.
Q. Do gutters increase home value?
Not exactly, but gutters in poor condition will detract value. Gutters in good working condition will add to the curb appeal of a home.
Q. What size gutters do I need?
Houses with steep roofs or 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, Angi, Fixr, HomeLight, HomeGuide, Homeserve
