We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›
- Typical Range: $193 to $620
- National Average: $383
Gutters are intended to direct rainwater away from a home to help preserve the roof and structure. But sometimes homeowners may notice a leak in their gutters when it rains, a sagging section of gutter, or a crack in the gutters that continues to get worse as time goes on. These issues can often be fixed by a gutter repair service.
How much does it cost to replace gutters? According to HomeAdvisor, gutter repair cost ranges from $193 to $620 with the average cost of gutter repair at $383. The cost of gutters and gutter repair services depends on the type of gutters the home has, the repair issue, and much more. Before hiring a professional gutter company, it is important that homeowners know all of the factors that affect the cost so they can plan and budget accordingly.
Factors in Calculating Gutter Repair Cost
The average cost of replacing gutters and repairing them depends on a wide variety of factors. Repair costs vary based on the gutter material, style, and type along with other aspects like the repair type and problem. Each of the several gutter repair cost factors is detailed below.
Gutter Material
The cost to replace gutters depends first on the gutter material. Repairing budget-friendly gutter materials that are easy to work with can be as inexpensive as $75, while repairing heavy-duty materials that are difficult to work with can cost as much as $350. For example, repairing aluminum gutters costs $140 on average, while vinyl gutter repair costs an average of $135. Repairs for more expensive gutters like copper and zinc cost an average of $185 and $235, respectively. Galvanized steel falls in the middle with an average of $160 for repairs.
Gutter Style
Gutters are available in a few different styles, and the cost of gutter repair depends on which one the home has. K-style gutters are the most popular and are named after the unique profile that mimics the letter K. To repair this type of gutter, homeowners can expect to pay $8.25 to $15 per linear foot. K-style gutters are ideal for angular roofs and have a high rainwater capacity compared to that of other styles. Half-round gutters are also a popular gutter style, with repairs that cost from $9.50 to $17 per linear foot. The round bottom of this gutter makes it less prone to clogs, but it can still sag or detach over time. Finally, box gutters cost between $20 and $50 per linear foot to repair. These gutters are not often used in new construction but may be found on existing homes. Most often, box gutters require relining, patching, or replacing.
Gutter Type
Gutters can either be seamed or seamless. Seamed gutters are installed in sections, while seamless gutters are installed as entire pieces that custom-fit the dimensions of a house. Seamed gutters are much easier to repair and replace, as one section can be modified separately from the rest of the system. Homeowners can expect to pay $100 to $225 to repair seamed gutters or $160 on average. Seamless gutter repair cost is a little higher at $125 to $250, or $185 on average. If a piece of seamless gutter needs to be replaced, the entire piece will need to be removed and replaced, which makes it a more labor-intensive, costly repair.
Home Height
Homeowners will want to consider home height when trying to determine the cost to repair gutter leak issues or other damage. The cost will increase along with the number of stories of the home. A gutter repair on a one-story house costs $170 on average, while a gutter repair on a two-story house costs $330 on average. For three or more stories, homeowners can expect to pay upwards of $500. The higher the home, the higher up the gutters will need to be installed. This makes accessing the gutters to complete the repair more difficult, increasing the project duration, complexity, and price.
Roof Accessibility
Accessing the roof surface includes navigating the slope of the roof, and if there are multiple roof peaks on a home, it will take the gutter repair crew longer to reach the gutter repair location. This means that completing the actual repair could be more difficult and time-consuming, adding on to the total cost.
Repair Type
There are several parts that make up a gutter system, each with its own repair cost as detailed below.
- Downspout repair: Repairing a downspout—the section of gutter that runs vertically along a house from the roof to the ground—costs anywhere from $50 to $100. Downspouts can come loose and need to be reattached or have ice build up during the winter that causes damage.
- Drain pipe repair: The gutter system on some homes attaches to a drain pipe that takes the rainwater away from the house and into a drain system. Due to the drain pipe’s location underground, these pipes can become damaged by lawn mowers or large storms and require repair. Repairing a drain pipe costs $50 to $100.
- Gutter seam repair: The seam that attaches one section of gutter to the next can loosen, crack, or develop holes over time and need to be repaired. The waterproofing seal could also need to be fixed. These types of seam repairs cost anywhere from $75 to $175.
- Gutter corner repair: Due to the large seams, gutters are prone to damage where two sections meet and form a corner. When repairing a gutter corner, homeowners can expect to pay between $75 and $200, which will likely be for a seal or patch.
- Gutter guard repair: Gutter guards are installed over the top of gutters to allow rainwater in but keep dirt and debris out. If a gutter guard becomes damaged, the repair will cost $50 to $125. Even the best gutter guards may need to be readjusted or replaced if they deteriorate over time. The initial cost of gutter guards usually outweighs the cost of multiple gutter cleanings over the lifetime of the product.
Issue Type
From holes to clogs to sags, there are numerous problems that plague gutters over time, whether due to age or exposure to the elements. Rain gutter repair cost depends on the exact problem that is being addressed.
- Sagging gutter repair: Standing water that slowly drains from gutters can cause fasteners to loosen or break and then the gutter section to sag. Sagging gutter repair cost ranges from $75 to $200.
- Gutter hole repair: To repair a hole in a gutter, the cost will likely be $75 to $175. Small holes can be patched; however, if the hole is large enough, the entire gutter section may need to be replaced.
- Gutter leak repair: Most gutter leaks are repaired with a patch or seal. Leaks will get worse over time, so homeowners will want to have them repaired as soon as they notice a drip. Leaking gutter repair cost ranges from $75 to $250.
- Clogged gutter repair: Gutters that aren’t frequently cleaned can become clogged with leaves and other debris. This prevents rainwater from passing through and can damage gutters further. To fix a clogged gutter, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $250.
- Loose gutter repair: Whether due to wear and tear, age, or poor maintenance, the fasteners that keep gutters attached to a home can loosen over time. Replacing fasteners on loose gutters and making sure the gutters are good and secure will cost $100 to $300.
- Cracked gutter repair: If a section of gutter experiences a crack, whether due to a storm or general wear, the repair will cost between $100 and $400. Smaller cracks can be patched or sealed, but the entire gutter section may need to be replaced for larger cracks.
Labor
Many gutter companies will charge a flat fee for repairs, but the labor cost will typically come out to about $50 to $150 per hour. The exact cost will depend on the location of the project, the scope of the project, and more. If the homeowner requires immediate service, the company may charge a service or callout fee of $50 to $100. Other potential fees that could increase the cost of labor include travel fees and equipment rental fees. Most gutter materials tend to be relatively inexpensive, so labor will make up a large majority of the overall project cost. Some professional gutter companies charge a rate of $4 to $30 for their gutter repair cost per foot.
Additional Costs and Considerations
In addition to the cost factors considered above, there are a few more that apply to specific situations. Homeowners can read through these additional constraints that could play a role in the price of their gutter repair project.
Repair vs. Replacement
There is a point where gutters have so much damage, it makes more financial sense just to replace them if the gutter installation cost is comparable to the repair cost. Replacing gutters can cost between $1,600 and $2,175, while basic gutter repair costs $193 to $620, or $383 on average. When debating gutter repair versus replacement, homeowners will want to consider the age of the system. If the system is just 5 to 10 years old, the material likely has a much longer lifetime; therefore, gutter repair would make sense. If the system is upwards of 30 years old, it is likely time for a complete gutter replacement.
Emergency Repairs
Gutters may not seem like a system that requires emergency repairs, but that is not always the case. If a piece of gutter falls off the home during a storm, it can quickly become a safety hazard to those around it. Additionally, if gutters aren’t directed properly to send water away from the home, they could cause basement flooding during a heavy storm. If a homeowner needs gutter repairs immediately, they can expect to pay an extra $100 to $150 on top of the standard gutter cleaning and repair cost.
Additional Repairs
If there was some kind of incident that damaged the gutters, there could be additional damage to the home that also requires repairs. Most often, home damage related to gutter damage includes problems with the roofing, siding, trim, or soffit and fascia. Roof repairs cost $300 to $1,700, ranging from just replacing a few shingles to replacing an entire section of the structural roof framing. Siding repair costs anywhere from $340 to $1,350. Repairs to trim can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,100. Repairing soffit and fascia (the trim and siding that cover roof rafters at a roof’s overhang) costs $10 per linear foot on average.
Customizations
While gutters are being repaired, it might be a good time for homeowners to consider some upgrades or unique customizations. Gutters can be painted to match the exterior of a home or to an accent color for about $1 to $4 per linear foot or $400 to $500 total. Additionally, gutters can be customized to any size and shape that works for a specific area of a home.
Warranties and Insurance
Before paying for gutter replacement or repair out of pocket, homeowners will want to consider any warranty or insurance policies they have that may help cover the cost. Gutters often have a limited-time workmanship warranty upon installation. If the home’s gutters are experiencing loose fittings, ripped seams, or unexplained leaks, these repairs may be covered under that warranty. Homeowners can check their warranty policy and reach out to the applicable party to file a claim. Otherwise, they’ll want to consider whether their homeowner’s insurance policy could cover the gutter repair costs. If the gutters were damaged by an event such as a storm or other natural disaster, the repairs could be covered under the homeowner’s policy.
Annual Maintenance
Gutters need to be regularly maintained to avoid costly repairs. Homeowners will want to complete a visual inspection every year in the spring and the fall, checking for cracks, leaks, and holes, to make sure everything looks up to par. For a more thorough inspection, homeowners can hire a professional gutter company to complete an inspection for $75 to $200. Gutters also need to be cleaned regularly, especially those located close to trees with leaves and those without gutter guards. A professional gutter cleaning costs anywhere from $150 to $225.
Repair Cost by Type of Gutter Material
Certain gutter materials are more expensive to repair than others, whether due to increased labor or material costs. Below are the costs homeowners can expect to pay when repairing each type.
Aluminum
Aluminum gutter repair costs $85 to $200, or $140 on average. Aluminum is a budget-friendly gutter material and is therefore relatively inexpensive to repair. Since the material is thin and flexible, aluminum gutters are prone to bending, sagging, and loosening over time. Any damage to this type of gutter is easily patched, and they can be reattached or, if needed, replaced.
Copper
Copper gutter repairs cost from $125 to $250, or $185 on average. Copper gutter repair cost is slightly higher than for aluminum, but this gutter material can significantly add to a home’s curb appeal. While copper gutters can sag, bend, and dent, repairs will fall on the low end of the cost range. Specialized repairs, such as removal of the patina from the weathered copper surface, will cost more, as these processes are more time-consuming.
Galvalume
The cost to repair galvalume gutters ranges from $175 to $350. Galvalume is a gutter material made from a combination of aluminum, zinc, and silicone. It is engineered to outperform aluminum and galvanized steel gutters in the exterior environment. Even so, galvalume gutters do require repairs every once in a while.
Galvanized Steel
Steel gutter repair typically costs $160 on average, with a range of anywhere from $100 to $225. Galvanized steel is a strong, durable material, but it weighs much more than aluminum. Because galvanized steel is difficult to work with, the installation and repair process will take longer. While the material itself is generally affordable, the added labor contributes to a slightly higher repair cost.
Vinyl
Vinyl gutter repairs cost $75 to $200, or $135 on average. Vinyl is a very popular gutter material due to its affordability. The lightweight, PVC material is easy to repair and replace. Homeowners will want to keep in mind, however, that repairs could be required more frequently than with other gutter materials, as vinyl is weaker and degrades over time. UV exposure can cause the material to warp, crack, or dry rot.
Wood
If a home has wood gutters, the repairs will range from $150 to $300. Wood gutters are rarely installed in this day and age, but historic homes may still have them. Moisture can easily penetrate the wood over time, causing rot and enabling moss growth or pest infestations. Wood gutters will require a lot of maintenance over their lifetime and come at a higher price than most other gutter materials.
Zinc
Repairing zinc gutters costs between $150 and $325, or $235 on average. Zinc is not the most common gutter material, but it is very durable and corrosion-resistant, making it a good option to consider. Zinc will develop a patina similar to that of copper, although the color will be white instead of green. Zinc gutters will need to be repaired if they are dented, loosen, or otherwise become damaged. The repair cost tends to be a little higher, as zinc can be difficult to work with and the material itself is a little more costly.
Do I Need Gutter Repair?
It may not always be obvious that gutters are damaged and in need of repair. There are certain clues that homeowners can look out for when completing routine inspections of their gutter system. The following are some common signs homeowners need new gutters or gutter repairs.
Localized Damage
Gutters can experience localized damage, whether they get hit by an object or take a beating during a bad storm. A small dent or break can quickly create a leak or cause further damage to a gutter system. Homeowners will want to have any localized damage patched and repaired to avoid further issues.
Small Cracks or Fissures
A small crack or fissure in a section of gutter might not seem like a big deal at first, but these cracks will inevitably get bigger and require a more substantial repair in the future. To keep the repair cost low, homeowners will want to have any cracks or fissures patched or sealed as soon as they notice a problem.
Leaking Joint
Over time, the seams and joints that connect each section of a gutter can loosen and create leaks in the system. The loose joints will need to be refastened and sealed to keep rainwater from leaking out.
Loose Hangers
Hangers are used to attach gutter sections to a home. With long-term exposure to wind and other weather elements, these hangers can loosen, causing gutter sections to move more than they should or fall off entirely. Any loose hangers will need to be properly secured with new fasteners.
Minor Copper Fixes
Copper gutters can experience unique damage compared to other gutter materials. The exterior will tarnish over time and can experience holes or tears. Copper gutters need to be regularly cleaned with a soft brush that protects the finish, and any holes or tears need to be patched and sealed.
Gutter Repair: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Any work involving gutters is usually best left to the professionals who install and repair them day in and day out. Some homeowners may have the wherewithal to reattach a gutter hanger or seal up a hole, but most gutter repairs require experts so the repair will last for years to come.
A professional gutter repair company will fully assess the gutter system and make all necessary repairs. They will need to access the home’s gutters and roof with the proper equipment, like ladders and lifts. These professionals are trained to use this equipment, and allowing them to do so will keep the home’s residents safe.
Gutters serve an extremely important function for a home, so it’s important that homeowners make sure they are installed and repaired correctly. If not, rainwater can get into the basement and cause moisture that can lead to mold growth or structural damage. A gutter repair expert will have all of these potential issues in mind as they complete repairs and will make sure any potential for water damage is mitigated.
How to Save Money on Gutter Repair Cost
You can save money on gutter repair cost by being proactive with maintaining your gutters and with planning your gutter repair projects. Keep these tips in mind as you take care of your gutters throughout the year and schedule repairs.
- Keep your gutters clean. Carefully remove leaves and debris from your gutters on a regular basis. If you don’t know how to clean gutters, hire a professional. Gutters that are routinely cleaned are less likely to become damaged.
- Visually inspect your gutter system. Every spring and fall, take a walk around your house and inspect your gutters. Look for cracks and holes that need attention. If cracks and holes are not fixed, they will get bigger over time and require a more costly repair.
- Get multiple pricing quotes. Always request pricing from at least three companies so you can adequately compare the cost of services. Choose the best value option that you feel gives you the best bang for your buck.
Questions to Ask About Gutter Repair
Before hiring a professional gutter company to repair gutters, homeowners will want to be sure to compare the services provided by each business. They can ask the following questions of each company and compare the responses to make an informed decision.
- Do you offer free estimates?
- Will you provide a written quote and contract?
- Are you licensed and insured to complete this type of work?
- How long have you been in business?
- What kind of training do you offer for your employees?
- Will the work be completed by an employee of your business or by a subcontractor?
- Can you provide references from similar projects?
- What gutter repair methods do you recommend?
- What sections of my gutters require repair?
- How long will the gutter repair last?
- Should I repair or replace my gutters?
- Can you repair other parts of my home, like the roof, soffit, and fascia?
- Do you offer a warranty on your work?
- How soon can you schedule the work?
- How can I get in touch with you while the project is in progress?
- How will you protect my home and landscaping from damage during the project?
- How do you handle disputes or disagreements?
FAQs
The answers to the following frequently asked questions about gutter repair can help homeowners with any remaining questions they may still have. There is a lot to know about gutter replacements and repairs, and the more the homeowner knows, the more confident they can feel in their decisions.
Q. How do I know if my gutters are bad?
Homeowners will know if gutters are bad if they exhibit any of these issues:
- cracks or holes on the surface
- the presence of rust
- visible screws or nails poking through
- water that overflows the gutters or leaks out
- unexplained moisture in the basement
Q. Should I paint or just replace my gutters?
While paint will fix the cosmetic issues with gutters, it will not fix any of the performance issues. If the gutters have holes, leaks, cracks, or are otherwise not performing as intended, it is best to replace them rather than just paint them. Gutter painting is for aesthetic purposes only.
Q. What damage can a leaking gutter cause?
Leaking gutters can cause a lot of damage around a home, including the following:
- basement flooding
- roof damage
- attic water damage
- rotten wood framing or siding
- foundation damage
- soil erosion
- deck or patio damage
Q. Do roofers or handypeople fix gutters?
Both roofers and handypeople can fix gutters. If the homeowner needs soffit, fascia, or roofing fixed in addition to their gutters, it is best for them to hire a roofer. If they need gutter repairs along with a few other fixes throughout the home, they can hire a handyperson.
Q. How often should gutters be replaced?
Gutters need to be replaced after they have reached the end of their life expectancy and are experiencing a number of problems. The life expectancy depends on the type of gutter material; for example, galvanized steel and aluminum gutters last around 20 years, while copper gutters can last up to 50 years.
Q. Does house insurance cover leaking gutters?
Home insurance typically does not cover leaking gutters, since they are a regular wear-and-tear issue. Home insurance only covers damage from accidents, like fires or storms, and does not cover damage from everyday usage.
Sources: HomeAdvisor, Fixr
