How Much Does It Cost To Install Gutters?

Gutter replacement cost estimator

A full replacement of your existing gutters will include the cost of installation labor and materials plus the removal of your old gutters, which can range between $.50 and $4 per linear foot. Be prepared to also pay a $40 - $100 fee for the disposal of your old gutters.

Use the chart below to estimate the total cost of your gutter replacement project per linear foot, including materials, labor, removal, and disposal fee.

Understanding gutter installation costs

Labor

When determining the price of installing new gutters, the most costly part is usually the material you choose. Contractors typically estimate an hourly rate for the installation cost. Prices can vary by location, and market demand may also play a role. Most installations take about an 8-hour workday but will likely take longer if you have a large home. Contact companies near you to get a breakdown of the costs involved.

Downspouts

Downspouts serve a critical function as they direct water from the gutters away from the foundation to the desired location. An individual downspout typically costs between $5 and $25 each. Each project usually takes 4 to 6 downspouts, depending on the structure's number of rooflines.

Gutter styles and widths

Gutters come in three main styles — box, K-style, and half-round — and you can find most types in an array of materials. Each comes in its own standard range of widths. 

K-style is the most common type, coming in 5" and 6" sizes. Historical-style homes typically use half-round, with a standard size of 5" and 6". Box-style gutters are high-volume gutters, most often installed on large commercial and industrial buildings. Box styles typically come in 7" and 8" widths.

Decorative gutters follow the standard styles but are more colorful or made from decorative materials, like copper.

Gutter material types

Gutters are most commonly aluminum, vinyl, and steel. Copper is a popular material for older, fancier houses — often installed in high-visibility areas to show off its patina once it has weathered a bit.

Copper gutter

At around $33 average per linear foot, copper is favored for its metallic luster and the greenish patina it accumulates over time. Copper is a sturdy material that stands the test of time and is the priciest of gutter materials. It's also heavier, which makes it more prone to coming loose.

Steel gutter

Steel gutters run an average of $15 per linear foot. Steel is a highly durable material, and galvanized steel is less likely to corrode over time. Steel is more expensive than aluminum, and both materials have pretty much the same capability when it comes to directing water.

Aluminum gutter

Aluminum gutters cost around $9 on average per linear foot. Aluminum is an excellent option if you're budget conscious and does a fine job channeling water. However, because it’s more lightweight than steel or copper, aluminum is more prone to damage and may need repairing or replacing more often.

Vinyl gutter

At an average of around $4 per linear foot, vinyl is the most economical option for gutter material. Vinyl is less sturdy than other gutter materials and doesn't hold up as well against the wind and extreme weather. Vinyl gutters also only come in one color: white.

Seamless gutters vs. sectional

The average costs to install seamless gutters is on average $14 per linear foot. With a range between $3 and $25 per linear foot.

If you're concerned about aesthetics, seamless gutters can be a great choice. Rather than sectional gutters, seamless gutters feature a single, continuous piece of material that runs across the front, back, and sides of your home. The contractor will measure the roof of your home and determine the correct length for each side. Then, using a special machine, they will cut the gutters to your specifications, so it sits perfectly along the roofline with no visible seams. Seamless gutters cost more than sectional pieces and range between $800 to $5,000 installed. This price depends on the material you choose and the total exterior square footage of your home. The price to install seamless gutters should include the cost of labor, delivery, and removal of your old gutters when applicable. Make sure you get a complete breakdown of your total cost before having a pro install sectional or seamless gutters.

Sectional gutters consist of prefabricated lengths of material joined together to meet the needed size. Joints can separate and leak, and hardware can increase the chance of clogs. Sectional gutters are more affordable and easier to install, making them the best option for do-it-yourselfers.

Seamless gutters feature a single continuous channel that seldom clogs or leaks. Contractors can cut each unit precisely to match your rooflines, making for a cleaner aesthetic.

Additional gutter costs

In addition to standard gutter installation, you can choose from a variety of other improvements for your home. Here are a few options to consider along with their average costs:

Splash blocks and hangers

Splash blocks direct water away from your foundation to prevent damage and can cost between $5 and $10 each. If you need flashing, this addition costs approximately $10. Hangers will keep your gutters elevated which is especially important during times of excess wind or when a lot of water needs to drain during a storm, and they cost around $2 each.

Gutter guards

Plastic mesh gutter guards help to keep leaves and debris out to prevent blockage. Gutter guards range between $7 and $12 per linear foot or you can opt to have gutters installed that include the guard already attached.

Downspout screens

Add downspout screens to your gutter to direct debris away from the opening which can help to prevent clogs. These screens cost about $8 apiece and are well worth it to keep leaves and other items above the slope of your gutters so the wind can simply blow them away.

Heat tape

If you live in a cold region, heat tape is a wise investment. As the weather freezes and temperatures plummet, it can cause overflow to fall to the ground which can pose a serious risk of injury. Use heat tape to keep your gutters from freezing. This enhancement costs around $77 for 100 feet and is well worth the extra expense.

Gutter painting

If your gutters are showing too much bare material, it's time to paint. They typically get to this point every 5-7 years. Latex works well for steel and vinyl, while oil-based paint is best for aluminum. Premium exterior paint will cost you more, but it'll last far longer than a more economical choice.

DIY gutter installation vs. professional

Unless you have experience installing home gutter systems yourself, you'll probably want to go with a professional. They'll know the ins and outs of putting up gutters and have all the supplies they need on hand to get the job done in a fraction of the time it would take you. 

Professional installation will cost more than doing it yourself, but it'll be worth it. Here are some tips to save on a professional installation and get the most for your money.

Shop around

Don't go with the first quote you get — get pricing from at least three installation services. You can usually use your lowest quoted price to negotiate with the others. 

Look for promotions

Check your email and look online. Gutter services often send out marketing emails or have promotions on their websites you can use to save money on installation and other services. 

Ask about a contract bundle

Many installation companies also provide gutter cleaning and maintenance services. If you sign up for a cleaning and repair contract alongside your gutter installation, they'll often knock some of the cost off upfront.