Gutters are an important part of protecting your property from weather damage. But how much do gutters cost? Fortunately there is an option for every budget. If you are going to invest in a new roof or siding, a new water diversion system will go a long way toward protecting it for decades.
Gutter installation prices vary. The costs depend on many factors: the materials and sizes used, the methods used, the skill of the contractor, the complexity of the project, and sometimes, the region. Usually installation prices include all fastenings, joints and the downspout.
While less expensive options may require more diligent maintenance, any kind of water diversion is better than none: rainwater intrusion will shorten the life of your roofing and building materials. It can also cause leaks and foundation cracks.
Gutter Materials
Choose from vinyl to various metals and even wood. The thickness, size, quality and finish will often dictate how much gutters cost. Also keep in mind that raw material prices differ from installed prices.
Vinyl – A cost-effective option that is very easy to assemble and available in many colors, vinyl costs around $3 to $5 per linear foot. However, it can become brittle and crack in cold weather, and it is less sturdy than metal. It only comes in white or bronze, so it’s limiting. But if you need basic and affordable protection, this might be a good option.
Steel – Galvanized steel generally ranges from $5 to $10 per linear foot, installed. While it provides excellent strength, it is also prone to rust. A high-end option is stainless steel, which runs about $20 per linear foot and never rusts.
Aluminum – The most popular material, it gives excellent value because it never corrodes. These types of metal gutters generally cost from about $4 to $9 per lineal foot, installed. Pricing depends on metal quality, any finish, and gauge. It’s available in many colors.
Copper – This highly prized material never corrodes. Its bright salmon color naturally oxidizes to brownish purple and then to greenish gray. However, it is the most expensive material. While the value fluctuates with the metals market, copper gutters cost between $15 and $25 per lineal foot, installed. Seamless varieties are slightly less.
Wood – Mainly used for architectural restoration, wood requires frequent gutter cleaning and needs diligent maintenance by painting or oiling. Prices range from roughly $12 to 20 per linear foot. How much these gutters cost depends on the species and pre-treatment. Red cedar and redwood heartwoods are more decay-resistant than others.
Gutter Size
How much gutters cost also varies with the size needed. Channels have different widths, usually 4, 5 or 6 inches. Choose one designed to handle the amount of rainfall you receive each year. There is no need to pay more for a greater width if you don’t need it; however, wider is better if there are shedding trees above your roof.
Adding a Gutter Screen
Gutter covers, also known gutter guards, are another important option to consider when you install your system. If you love the trees around your house but hate the way they shed, this is a worthwhile investment. It saves time on gutter cleaning and often, gutter repair. The price varies by design and manufacturer. The Gutter Hood brand is popular for its sturdiness and value.
A leaf guard should feature a nose-forward edge that water clings to. Leaves, pine needles, acorns and twigs will not cling, and they are too large to get inside the narrow slit below the rounded edge. Quality screens save time spent on a ladder. If your time is worth something, then gutter covers are a good addition to your system and won’t add much to your basic gutter costs.
Your Contractor
How much do gutters cost? The old adage that you get what you pay for not only applies to materials; it applies to your installer.
Choose a rain gutter company that has experience working with the materials you desire.
Get all prices in writing, including preparation and fascia repair. Make sure downspout prices are included in the quote.
Hire a team that is local and licensed. Also, make sure they are fully insured – any kind of roof-level work is dangerous!
Many details go into estimating the cost of rainwater diversion, but it is one form of exterior home protection you should not go without; the integrity of your house depends on it. Talk to a professional and get a free estimate. It’s usually a lot more affordable than you think!
We offer rain gutter services in Birmingham, Mountain Brook, Vestavia, Hoover, Al.