How Much Do Gutters & Downspouts Cost to Install or Replace?

Gutter Installation Cost

Let’s start with the basics. The estimate for an experienced contractor to install a home's gutters measuring 125 to 200 feet will cost between $1,050 to $,2400 depending on actual materials and installation quotes. This estimate includes materials and labor. You can expect to pay around $10 per linear foot for installation; however, overall pricing will depend on costs in your area and the size of your home. Your roof pitch will also impact the estimate, so you’ll likely pay more for a steeper incline.

Below is an estimate of the average cost of gutter installation (materials not included) based on the type and scale of the work.

*Average costs are associated with seamless gutter installation projects which had a larger survey population than other materials. Other materials may differ in price. Prices are rounded to the nearest ten.

Hiring a gutter contractor at an average rate of $75 an hour ensures the job will be done correctly and with minimal aggravation. A professional installer can complete around 150 linear feet in seven hours, which means the installation can take anywhere between one and three days depending on the home's needs. The downside is the added cost; paying someone for their services will add to the bottom line.

But that investment may prove worth it, as well-installed gutters are effective and long-lasting. For example, if you install your new gutters at the wrong angle, they may not drain properly into the downspouts, creating a standing water issue. This could prematurely age your gutters by several years, meaning you may encounter replacement costs earlier than you thought.

Average Cost to Install Gutters by House Size

*Median seamless gutter installation prices will vary depending on material.

Gutter Prices by Material

The cost of gutter materials per linear foot depends on the type you select and the quality of the product. There are four major choices to consider. Let’s break them down.

*This material offers the highest quality of all and pricing depends on the manufacturer.

Cost of Gutters & Downspouts

Gutters, which can run anywhere from $3 to over $40 per linear foot depending on the material, and downspouts, which cost between $5 and $25 or more per piece, are essential in helping preserve the foundations and walls of your home. They carry water away from your home's foundation and help prevent standing water. Without proper materials, you run the risk of foundation damage, mold/mildew, wood damage, as well as premature masonry crumbling or cracking. Gutters also prevent erosion of your property by directing water into the sidewalk rather than flooding your landscape.

Without proper materials, you run the risk of serious foundation problems, mold/mildew, and wood damage, as well as premature masonry crumbling or cracking.

The single largest factor in determining gutter installation costs is the material you choose. Since professional gutter estimates usually include the cost of installation, you can get a good idea of your total costs by speaking to an installation pro. 

Here are the four major gutter material types, listed from most expensive to least expensive.

Vinyl Gutters & Downspouts

If spending a thrifty $3 to $5 per linear foot for gutters and $5 to $8 per foot for downspouts sounds appealing to you, then vinyl might be the right choice.  Vinyl is an affordable option for those who do not live in a climate that experiences extreme weather conditions, either hot or cold.

When they’re in good shape, vinyl gutters and downspouts are effective in moving water away from your foundation, but they lack the durability of more dependable materials. Let’s cut to the chase—the primary reason to choose vinyl is the price. The downside is that vinyl is the least expensive cheapest gutter material, which means your vinyl gutters will likely require replacement sooner than the more expensive options.

Aluminum Gutters & Downspouts

Many homeowners choose aluminum gutters, which cost $6 to $12 per linear foot, with downspouts at $5 to $8 per foot. Why? Because they’re an all-around great value.

They’re lightweight, easy to install, and able to carry water away from your home effectively. However, because aluminum is lightweight, it can incur more damage over time and as a result might need repair or replacement sooner than more durable materials such as steel and copper.

Steel Gutters & Downspouts

Steel gutters range from $9 to $20 per linear foot, and downspouts average about $10 per foot. Though slightly more expensive than aluminum, they are not any more effective in their ability to move water away from your home's foundation. 

The chief advantages of steel include durability and longevity, while the main disadvantage is, once again, the steeper cost. Consider steel if you live in a part of the country that experiences extreme weather conditions. Steel is stronger and heavier than aluminum, so it will withstand harsher environments and generally last longer. Steel is also a better choice in spaces where there is a lot of activity, such as basketball or soccer courts, as it is more resistant to damage and dings.

Copper Gutters & Downspouts

Copper gutters cost $25 to $40 or more per linear foot, with downspouts starting at $17 per foot. Copper is more expensive than other gutter materials, but it is also durable and effective.  Homeowners often choose copper gutters for their beauty and charm. It’s important to note, however, that over time, copper can develop a patina and change color.  Since you can’t always predict how the color will appear months or years later, you’ll want to take that into consideration.

IMPORTANT: It’s sad but true. Copper gutters may be targeted for theft in some areas because of the value of the metal.

Wood Gutters

Wood ranges in price from $18 to $27 per linear foot, including the costs of hangers and other fittings. Wood requires regular treatment every year with quality wood stain or paint on the outside and water-resistant oil on the inside.

Though it’s possible to maintain wood gutters yourself, it’s often safer and more practical to hire a professional to complete the work. If the finish is not maintained correctly, it can result in rotting and additional costs to fix the damage.

Galvanized Gutters

The median cost to install galvanized gutters is about $700. Metallic and durable, they offer a cost-efficient option, but it comes with a caveat: galvanized gutters have the potential to crack or expand due to heat. That said, they can generally withstand most harsh conditions and come in seamless styles.

Also, although they’re silver and metallic, you can easily paint them to coordinate with your home’s color and style. Galvanized gutters can last up to two decades with proper attention and maintenance, making them an attractive mid-priced option.

Downspout Cost

When you purchase new gutters, you'll also need to buy downspouts, which are located roughly every 35 feet. You can expect to pay between $5 and $8 per foot for vinyl and aluminum downspouts. Steel is priced from $9 to $12 and copper will cost $17 or more per foot. You might also have to pay for additional accessories, such as splash blocks, drains, flashing, and hangers.

Seamless vs. Sectional Gutters

All gutters fall into one of two simple categories: seamless and sectional.

Seamless styles consist of one continuous piece rather than multiple pieces tethered together. A professional installer measures the roof of your home, identifies the required length for the seamless gutter piece, and cuts it on-site using a special machine. This style sits perfectly on your roof.

Sectional gutters are available in standard sizes, and you can buy them in 5-, 10- and 15-foot sections. Ten-foot is the most popular. Your pro will join them on-site.

If you’re comparing the two, seamless models have the advantage because they resist leaks. Since they lack the gaps that exist in sectional pieces, there are no divots where water can drip. Also, all gutters are installed at a slight slope to direct the water to the downspouts, so seamless gutters present a perfect visual line. If not installed properly, sectional gutters can have a jagged look.

If you choose seamless gutters, you could pay anywhere between $800 and $5,000, depending on the preferred material and square footage of your home's exterior. This wide price range takes into account varying materials such as aluminum, copper, vinyl, and steel. Seamless gutter costs may also include extra labor, delivery, and materials depending on your situation, so be sure to ask exactly what's covered in the quote from an installer.

Gutter and Flashing Removal Cost

Expert gutter replacement charges will be around $100 for removal and disposal. You can try to save this money if you feel confident attempting the removal on your own. However, if you do something incorrectly, the professional installer may charge you for any extra work they have to perform.

If you decide to DIY this part of the project, you can plan to pay roughly $40 for the actual disposal, but keep in mind, this estimate is area-dependent. Charges could reach $100 in some cities or larger metropolitan areas. Our advice: always request a detailed estimate before beginning . Of course, it's also possible that a professional can secure better disposal rates than you can on your own. Take a look at your pro’s estimate and then decide what’s right for you.

Flashing Replacement

Having a professional replace flashing is $200 to $500 per project area, such as around a chimney or in a valley.

Checking your flashing is no easy DIY project—it’s best to leave it to a professional for the sake of safety. But if you must take care of it yourself, follow these steps:

1. Remove the roof tiles cautiously. Avoid damaging the flashing, you can reuse it if it’s in good shape.

2. Pry the flashing up and set it aside.

3. Take extra care with step flashing, which you can find abutting a wall like a chimney. It requires extra attention because it interweaves with shingles.

4. If your roof features two angles that join and form a valley, expect flashing there as well. If removed, replace it with new materials. The removal process on this particular style can cause bends, warps, and kinks.

If your flashing needs replacement, you’ll notice:

1. Rust is a sign that moisture has gotten through and corroded the metal. This weakens the flashing's attachment and causes it to lift, taking any surrounding shingles with it.

2. Stress and high winds can cause cracking. While the flashing may seem securely attached, cracks can let water in.

3. Excessive amount of sealant. Excessive sealer indicates that a past problem wasn’t repaired correctly. Ignoring this can only lead to bigger problems later on, so remove this flashing and throw it out.

Cost of Flashing:

Flashing is about $1 to $5 per square foot when bought in sheets. A 75-foot roll of fully-adhered flashing tape sells for about $25. Professionals place sheets around vents and install tape around odd angles and unusual shapes. Pre-shaped vent flashing ranges from $10 to $20 each.

Replacing Gutters

Replacing gutters costs $600 to $1,400. Materials alone could be $1 to $6 per linear foot. Materials and labor combined often comes out to $3 to $10 per linear foot. Usually, by the time your roof needs replacing, your ducts need it as well.

If your gutters need replacement, you’ll notice:

1. Cracks or splits: Any kind of crack or split can eventually turn into a big one, eventually damaging fascia boards, shingles and maybe even the foundation.

2. Paint peeling: Peeling paint or orange flecks could indicate that water isn’t being removed as quickly as it should be.

3. Pools of water: If you notice pools of water or mildew around your home’s foundation, they may not be doing their job as well as they used to.

4. Sagging: If they’re sagging or pulling away from the house, they should be repaired.

Gutter Enhancements & Accessories

Downspout Extension Cost

In many cases, you’ll need accessories to help your downspout to perform at its best.   Above-ground downspout extensions range from $10 to $50 (add $30 to $100 for installation) depending on length and type. In short, just know that accessories could raise the price of your installation. Some installers might include these line items in their estimate, but you should always clarify before you sign off on the project.

You might need any or all of these gutter accessories:

• Splash blocks/drains: $5–$10. Help to direct water away from the foundation and prevent damage.

• Flashing: $10. Protects your roof underlayment and siding from potential moisture damage.

• Hangers: $2 or more. Help keep gutters elevated, especially with excess wind or water draining during a storm.

• Rollout downspout extenders: $10–$20. Inexpensive way to divert water far away from your foundation.

• Rain barrel for downspouts: $80–$200. Collect rainwater for gardening. Do make sure to check your local laws as some municipalities limit or prohibit the amount of water you can collect.

Cleaning Cost

Gutter cleaning costs approximately $125 to $225. A cleaner attachment for your pressure washer costs as little as $25 and allows you to clean your gutters any time you see fit. These handy devices are long enough that they require no ladder to perform the work.

Gutter Guards Cost

Installing gutter guards costs between $7 and $12 per linear foot. These plastic mesh guards prevent leaves and other clutter from creating blockage. Better quality gutter guards don't rust or erode over time, making them ideal one-time purchases.

Many brands sell pre-assembled styles to help you save time.

Wire Mesh Screens

A swarm of insects represents one of the largest dangers to the integrity of your gutters and can undo all your hard work. Wire mesh screens fit on top of the channel or box and provide protection against anything that tries to enter. Wire mesh screens cost as little as $1 per linear foot and are an elegant, inexpensive solution to the problem of nature's pests. 

Heat Tape

Winter weather and freezing temperatures represent some of the biggest threats to your gutters. When ice thaws, overflow will spill to the ground, creating dangerous walking and driving conditions on the surface below. If you live in an area that experiences a lot of cold weather, heat tape will protect them from icing. The heatable cabling runs through the gutter channels, so that during inclement climate conditions, you simply activate the cables. As a result, the water from melting ice will drain away naturally, as intended.

You can purchase heat tape (also known as electric de-icing wire) for as little as $77 for 100 feet, and it’s a solid investment for people who live in colder regions. Note that this gutter accessory requires an outdoor electrical outlet that is water-tight and should be a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlet for code compliance and safety. An electrician will cost $200 to $500 to install an outlet.

Downspout Screens

Downspout screens, which redirect debris away from the downspout opening, cost around $8 each. These helpful accessories prevent clogging. The clever design allows the natural motion of water to elevate leaves and other objects above the slope of the gutters where the wind will eventually blow them away.

Gutter Foam

Foam is around $1.50 per linear foot. It’s a quick and simple solution to help keep tubes free of debris. The foam sections sit inside, allowing water to soak through but keeping out leaves and other elements. The foam is not visible from ground level and is quick to install.

Rodent Guards

Rodent guards are approximately $5 each. Made of plastic or metal mesh, they fit over the end of your downspout. They screw into place to prevent rodents from nesting in the downspout and have a snap-fit design for easy maintenance.

Gutter Flashing

Flashing usually costs no more than $20 per length. It’s a metal strip that runs behind the duct and up underneath the eaves of the roof. Flashing creates a waterproof barrier and prevents moisture damage.

Splash Blocks

Splash blocks are up to $10 each. They direct water away from buildings and reduce damage to the foundation.

Additional Considerations

When installing or replacing your gutters, consider their location. They may have been attached in a less-than-ideal area because of the house's design. This is especially true for older homes. In certain situations, moving the funnels might cause the need for additional repairs (and bring additional costs) including siding replacement or repainting the home’s exterior.

There might also be situations where you cannot move the downspout, in which case you’ll need to pay close attention to maintenance and keep the system flowing smoothly. 

One more tip: consider the best season for your gutter replacement job, both for convenience and to save some money on professional help. Professionals will often charge less for their services in spring than in summer or fall.

DIY vs. Hiring a Gutter Installer

Some people might want to save money by installing or replacing their gutters themselves. This option has its advantages and disadvantages. Doing the project yourself can save money and allow you to pursue the project on your own terms. However, if you are inexperienced and make a mistake, you could wind up with too little or too much material, a fall-related injury, an installation that is visually unappealing or even accidental damage to your house.

Gutters are the front line of defense for your roof, siding and landscape. Without them, you could spend thousands on repairs every season from moisture damage. Depending on your budget and your home's appearance, invest in the kind that most complements the exterior and requires the least amount of maintenance. Hire a local gutter installer and rest assured the job will get done quickly and correctly.

FAQs

How long do gutters last?

If they are properly kept up, fitted with appropriate accessories, and cleaned regularly, durable gutters made of quality materials such as steel can last up to 20 years, and copper up to 50 years or more. Weather conditions in your area, material type, and consistency of maintenance and upkeep are three factors that will determine exactly how long your gutters last.

Do gutters add value to a home?

They can absolutely add value to your home, especially if they consist of quality materials. If you are in the process of searching for a new home, pay attention to the age and upkeep of the property’s gutters and examine the landscape to make sure they are functioning properly and staving off erosion.

Are gutters really necessary?

Yes. Gutters are a vital feature of any home. They keep water away from your foundation, preventing cracking and premature crumbling. They also channel rainwater toward the sidewalks and streets and into city drainage systems, keeping your soil from shifting and eroding over time. They are a smart investment if you want to prevent future structural problems to your property and they can save you considerable cash over the long haul.

What size gutters do I need?

It depends. Gutters come in 4, 5, and 6 inches with two shapes, K style and half rounds, that are suitable for most residential homes. A 5-inch K-style gutter holds about 1.5 gallons of water, while 6-inch half rounds hold 2.0 gallons of water. Houses with steep roofs in wetter climates will need wider channels with extra downspouts to help drain the water more quickly.