Gutters are the unsung heroes of a home, tirelessly working to channel damaging storm water away from the structure.
They prevent a slew of potentially extensive, costly moisture-related problems, all while maintaining a low profile.
However, like all heroes, gutters don’t last forever.
Eventually a gutter replacement will be necessary to continue directing rain water away from your property.
How Much Does Gutter Replacement Cost?
See costs in your area
Start Here - Enter Your Zip Code
The average cost of gutter replacement can vary greatly.
The variables include the size of the home, the type of gutters being installed, and how complex they are to install.
For a 200 linear foot gutter system on a brand-new, single-story home, expect to pay between $1,000 and $5,600.
This price range reflects the broad spectrum of choices, from basic, budget-friendly gutters to high-end, custom types.
The national average cost for gutter replacement is around $3,234.
This is a middle-of-the-road figure that reasonably juggles cost and quality.
However, every home and every gutter project is unique.
The roof’s pitch, the number of corners and downspouts that gutters need, and the condition of your fascia and soffit can all influence the final price.
If you’re only changing some of the existing gutters, the cost will be less, typically between $600 and $1,400.
This is an ideal solution when the gutter system is mostly in good condition, but one section is faulty or damaged.
But keep in mind that the new gutters must match the old ones in terms of material and style to guarantee both functionality and a cohesive aesthetic.
Cost Of Replacing Gutter Parts
See Costs in Your Area!
Start Here - Enter your zip
Replacing gutters doesn’t just mean the physical replacement of the system but also includes the cost of all the necessary parts.
Gutters collect rainwater from the roof and channel it down to ground level via downspouts. These are then responsible for diverting water away from the home’s foundation, so it can’t pool around the foundation and cause damage.
Usually, downspout replacement costs $2 to $4 per linear foot.
Aside from the downspouts, small yet immensely important is the hardware used in gutter systems.
Hangers, screws, and brackets all help to securely attach the gutters to the house, ensuring they can withstand heavy rainfall and snow.
This hardware is what allows long-term reliability and performance of the gutters.
After all, even small components can make a lasting impact — and contribute to the installation price (usually included with the gutters).
Did you know? The color of the gutters can impact their lifespan. Darker colors absorb more heat, particularly in hot climates, which can cause the material to warp or degrade faster. So, if your home is in an area with high temperatures, it might be worth opting for lighter-colored gutters for longevity.
Replacement Gutter Prices Per Foot
Replacing gutters professionally ranges from $3 to $10 per linear foot.
This price-per-foot metric lets you estimate the cost of a project in relation to the size of your home, but these are just averages.
The actual cost per foot may be different depending on the type of gutter, the complexity of the installation, and, most notably, the rate that the contractor charges.
Labor expenses typically take up a huge chunk of the total cost.
It’s no wonder why.
Gutter installation calls for specialized skills and tools.
Professionals must set the gutters at the correct angle to properly funnel water away from the house .
They also have to handle risky heights, often during adverse weather conditions.
Additional Gutter Replacement Costs
Gutter guards keep your gutters in top shape and help you avoid costly clogs.
Installation can cost anywhere between $900 and $2,000 — an upfront investment that can easily pay for itself over time.
Gutter guards protect the gutters by trapping leaves and other debris while still allowing rainwater pass through unobstructed.
This prevents blockages without having to clean the gutters often.
Without gutter guards, you should clean your gutters at least twice a year — a task that, for many people, requires hiring a professional.
With gutter guards, however, this is usually no longer necessary.
The gutters will still need maintenance, but less often and at a lower cost.
Gutter Cost By Material
The type of material can make gutter replacement costs differ significantly.
Here’s a glimpse at the average price per linear foot for popular materials:
| Gutter Replacement Cost | Average Cost per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $5-$20 |
| Copper | $18-$35 |
| Galvanized Steel | $5-$15 |
| Vinyl | $3-$6 |
| Wood | $15-$25 |
| Zinc | $15-$40 |
What Are The Most Cost-Effective Gutters?
Vinyl gutters are often the most cost-effective.
They’re attractive for a tight budget since they typically range from $3 to $6 per linear foot.
That’s an ideal price for larger properties or those looking to replace existing gutters.
With maintenance, vinyl gutters provide solid value for money.
Yet, a wise shopper should account for the long-term costs, too.
Sure, vinyl gutters may seem cheaper at first, but they also don’t tend to last as long as other materials.
They can crack and become brittle more easily in extreme cold. In wetter climates, this deterioration is even faster.
Eventually, this could lead to more frequent replacements and higher future costs.
Aluminum gutters may have a slightly higher price tag, but their advantages can easily outweigh the extra cost.
Rust-resistant and weather-proof, it’s not difficult to see why aluminum is steadily gaining popularity.
Pro Tip: Don’t overlook adding a drip edge once you set out to replace your gutters. This metal flashing runs along the edges of your roof and helps steer water away from underlying building components and safeguard them from future damage.
Who Does Gutter Replacement?
Gutter replacement is usually best left to the professionals.
These experts have the skill, proficiency, and tools to guarantee a job well done.
They know the nuances of gutter installation, from guaranteeing the correct tilt for water drainage to affixing the gutters securely to the house.
Choosing a professional to replace your gutter is the surest way to get results that will last.
Reputable contractors don’t merely provide a service but usually back up their work with a warranty.
This will give you peace of mind: if something goes wrong, they’ll fix it at no extra cost.
So, do your due diligence when selecting a contractor.
Look for ones who have positive reviews, an exemplary track record, and clear pricing.
Don’t hesitate to request references and proof of insurance, too.
Sectional vs Seamless Gutters
Weighing the pros and cons of sectional and seamless gutters can steer you either way.
Sectional gutters come pre-cut and connect together to form a neat line along the roof’s edge.
DIYers love them because they’re straightforward to install and generally cost less.
On average, you’ll pay anywhere from $3 to $20 per linear foot for sectional gutters.
However, one downside is that the seams can become leakage points over time.
Proper maintenance can keep these areas sealed and ensure that the alignment of the gutters remains intact.
Gutters come in many shapes and sizes, but seamless gutters provide the best aesthetic.
Unlike traditional gutters, which require connecting several pieces together, seamless gutters fit perfectly along the length of the roofline with no pesky seams.
This reduces the chance of leaks and makes them much easier to maintain.
Depending on the material, seamless gutters cost more than their counterparts, from $5 to $40 per linear foot.
Despite the additional upfront expense, they provide long-lasting value by reducing repair and replacement costs.
Cost Of Gutter Replacement For 2,000-Square-Foot House
The price to replace gutters for a 2,000-square-foot house will depend on the gutters’ linear footage, the material, and labor.
Keeping the national averages in mind, expect to pay between $1,200 and $2,300 for a complete gutter replacement on a 2,000-square-foot house.
Cost Of Gutter Replacement For 1,200-Square-Foot House
Similarly, for a 1,200-square-foot house, the cost of replacing the gutters will depend on the linear footage of the gutters, materials, and labor.
On average, you will likely pay between $1,800 and $4,200 for a complete gutter replacement on your 1,200-square-foot house.
Did you know? The gutter shape can make all the difference in their performance. With their flat bottoms and backs, K-style gutters can hold a larger volume of rainwater and remain steadfast even under torrential downpours. Compared to half-round gutters, they offer superior protection against bends or breaks from extreme weather conditions.
Is Gutter Replacement Covered By Insurance?
At its core, insurance is supposed to protect against unexpected or unpreventable damage.
Standard insurance policies usually don’t cover gutter replacements. But that doesn’t mean you’re completely out of luck.
Suppose the damage resulted from an event the policy covers, such as a natural disaster or severe storm. In that case, you may be able to get your insurance company to cover the cost of replacing gutters.
Contact your insurance provider and ask them exactly what is and isn’t covered in the policy.
Since each plan varies, the level of coverage can depend on many things, such the region where you live and the details of your policy.
If you’re uncertain, speak with an insurance agent or representative to clear up any questions about your coverage.
In certain cases, you could find a way to add extra protection for gutters to the insurance policy.
This could prove beneficial if you live in an area that is prone to extreme weather conditions or if replacing your gutters would be particularly costly.
Are Gutters Included In Roof Replacement?
Gutters usually aren’t a part of the roof replacement unless you specifically request that in the contract.
But if your gutters need replacing, it’s likely best to do so when you replace your roof.
That way, you’ll know if they work well with your new roof and will protect your home from water damage.
Very likely, it will be more convenient and pocket-friendly to coordinate the two replacements.
You’ll only have to hire one contractor and could get a decent deal for having both jobs done at the same time.
Your contractor can ensure that the style and color of both are compatible for nicer visuals.
Does Gutter Replacement Include Downspouts?
The gutter replacement does include downspouts.
Without them, water would simply flow over the sides of your gutters and pool around your foundation, causing potential damage to your siding, landscaping, and more.
The downspouts must be of the right size and in the right position for the volume of water the gutters collect.
They need to direct the runoff far enough away from the home to keep it safe from flooding.
After all, without the right downspouts in place, you could be compromising the foundation of your house.
Pro Tip: If your house is in an area that receives a great deal of snow each year, heated gutter cables can protect your roof and gutters from ice damage. Installing them makes you better prepared to battle the freezing temperatures and relentless snowfall.
Is It Easy To Replace Gutters Yourself?
It’s possible to replace gutters on your own, but only do it if you have the expertise and knowledge.
Some prolific DIYers may find it a piece of cake but bear in mind you’ll be working at potentially dangerous heights and handling heavy materials.
Both of these call for adequate experience and the right equipment. Therefore, leave this job to the professionals if you aren’t totally assured of your skills.
Incorrectly installed gutters can wreak havoc on your home. They could lead to water overflow, damaging your siding and foundation, and coming loose and falling.
If the gutters collapse, they’ll cause more harm or destruction.
Fortunately, professionally installed gutters will do their job right.
Contractors have the expertise, tools, and experience that guarantee safety and functionality — often in less time than if you were to do it yourself.
Gutter Replacement Benefits
New and pristine gutters will adequately divert away from your home and its components, preventing siding, landscaping, and foundation damage.
They can also prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can have serious health consequences and is costly to remediate.
If you’re someone who cares a lot about appearances, replacing old or damaged gutters can improve your home’s overall look.
Sagging or non-functioning gutters can detract from the curb appeal, but new ones can give a house a fresh look.
Signs You Need To Replace Your Gutters
There are several telltale signs that your gutters may need replacing.
Cracks, large or small, can render them as useless as a bucket with a hole.
Stress at the seams where two sections meet can lead to leaks or separations that can cause many undesirable outcomes.
Peeling paint on your exterior siding or even on the gutters themselves can indicate there’s a leak.
Rotting wood trim elements like window frames and door jambs can signal inadequate storm drainage.
And more, the presence of mold and mildew in previously dry, mildew-free areas below ground can be a clear indicator of damaged gutters.
Is It Worth Replacing My Gutters?
When gutters aren’t working correctly, should you really replace them?
If you can afford it — absolutely.
It can be less expensive to replace them than to repair the damage from leaking or overflowing gutters.
The top reason to replace gutters is protection from water damage.
When the rain can’t flow through a gutter, it spills onto other parts of the property. If it pools near your house, it can seep into the basement and wreak havoc on your foundation.
Plus, water exposure on siding can lead to a costly replacement or an unsightly look.
Too much water runoff can make walking on grass and other surfaces dangerous, while built-up moisture can attract insects and pests.
If there’s too little drainage in winter, an ice dam could form on your roof, risking significant structural damage due to the tremendous weight and pressure caused by the snow and ice.
With new gutters, you get peace of mind knowing these issues won’t become a liability in the future.
If your gutters are on the older side, you may be spending a lot of time and effort to keep them in good condition. You might be climbing ladders, risking injury with each step.
But with new gutters, you won’t have to worry about it nearly as much, especially if you add gutter guards.
As a bonus, upgrading your system can go a long way in making your home more appealing to potential buyers if you ever plan to sell.
And even if you are the only one concerned about your home’s appearance, you can take pride in a house that looks well-maintained.
Did you know? Regular gutter maintenance can prolong their lifespan. Show them care by cleaning out leaves and debris, checking for leaks, and ensuring the gutters are securely attached to the home.
Sturdy Gutters Keep The Rain Away
If the gutters on your home are starting to show signs of wear, consider the possibility of replacement sooner rather than later.
The cost may indeed be quite an outlay, but it’s worthwhile for maintaining the home’s long-term condition.
Recognizing telltale signs that replacement is imminent and knowing the associated costs will aid in making an informed decision about when and how to go through with the job.
