How Much Do Gutters Cost?

Today, on Redhead Mom, we’re answering the question, “How Much Do Gutters Cost” as part of a sponsored guest post. 

Homeowners rarely put gutters at the top of their list of home improvements. However, failing to repair or replace gutters and downspouts can cause costly damage, such as basement leaks, roof rot, and mold in attics. The good news is that quality gutters can last up to 20 years when they are properly maintained. Additionally, gutters influence the resale value of a home, so installing new gutters can be an investment opportunity. While your checking your gutters. it’s also worth taking a look at the condition of your roof. If your roof and gutters were installed at the same time, chances are you also need a residential roofing replacement to be installed by a professional roofing company.

Installing and Replacing Gutter Systems

When it comes to selecting a gutter system, homeowners have various things to consider. For example, material and roofing fees are factors that affect the total price. The average gutter system is 125 to 200 feet, costing between $850 to $1,000.

Materials

Gutters come in various materials, each one varying in price and durability. The following are the four primary materials used for gutters and downspouts listed from least expensive to most expensive. These prices of each material are based on national averages.

• Vinyl is the most affordable option for gutters, costing between $3 and $5 per linear foot. Vinyl downspouts average $5 to $8. A vinyl gutter system is a fine option for homes in mild climates, but its lack of durability makes it a poor fit for homes in areas with extreme weather conditions. Since various weather conditions can cause damage to vinyl gutters, they would need to be replaced more frequently, making them more expensive in the end.
• Aluminum is the most common material for gutter systems because it offers the best bang for your buck. Aluminum gutters cost between $6 and $12 per linear foot. Downspouts are anywhere from $5 to $8. This material is lightweight, easy to install, and effective in moving water away from the house. Since it is lightweight, it can be damaged by extreme weather conditions and may need repairs or replacing sooner.
• Steel gutters are just as effective as aluminum, but they are more durable and last much longer. For this reason, steel gutters are a good option for homes in areas with extreme weather conditions. Steel is priced at $9 to $20 per linear foot, and downspouts are $10 or more per linear foot.
• Copper is the most expensive material used for gutters, costing anywhere between $25 and $40 per linear foot and at least $17 for the downspout. Although it is effective, copper is typically chosen for its aesthetic charm. Copper also changes color over time, but the end result is unpredictable. Additionally, copper may be a target for theft because of its value.

Maintenance-free gutters are a relatively new option on the market, but they come with a lifetime warranty and require little to no upkeep. These gutter systems come in various materials that are designed for durability and longevity. Because they are maintenance-free, these gutters are more expensive, but they do eliminate cleaning and repair costs.

Installation Fees

The average leaf guard gutter system costs $850 to $1,000, but this is just for materials. Using a professional gutter company for installation will increase the overall price. Homeowners can expect to pay about $10 per linear foot for installation, totaling between $1050 to $2400. Contractors are another option and typically less expensive than a professional company. Professional installers can complete 50 linear feet in about seven hours. Therefore, it can take between one and three days to complete the installation.

An additional fee may arise if old gutters are being replaced. Gutter companies may charge about $100 to remove and dispose of the old gutter system.

Enhancing and Improving Gutter Systems

When it comes to ensuring the longevity of your gutters, it’s essential to consider more than just the gutters themselves. Seamless gutter services encompass various elements, such as gutter guards, heat tape, and regular cleaning, which are crucial for maintaining the seamless flow of water and preventing blockages. These additional services not only enhance the functionality of your gutters but also extend their lifespan, saving you from potential damages and costly repairs in the long run.

Gutter Guards

There are several options when selecting a gutter guard. These guards block debris and buildup from clogging the gutters meanwhile preventing damage to the windows, doors, and foundation of the house. Gutter guard costs are approximately $7 to $12 per linear foot.

Types of gutter guards include screens and fine mesh. Screens are effective in blocking leaves, but seeds and other small debris may get through. Screens are also easily damaged by weather conditions, so they may need to be replaced frequently. Fine mesh gutter guards are less expensive than screens. They are easy to clean but need to be replaced frequently, as well.

Both screens and fine mesh can create a build-up of seeds and pine needles, which requires regular cleaning. Maintenance-free gutters come with a built-in guard that blocks debris and build up that requires almost no cleaning.

Heat Tape

Heat tape is used in climates that have extreme winter weather conditions. It costs between $77 and $100 per linear feet, but it is seen as an investment for people who live in extremely cold areas. Heat tape stops ice from forming at the top or inside a gutter. Ice can cause serious damage to the gutters as well as the house itself, so heat tape prevents any damage from occurring.

Cleaning

Proper gutter maintenance requires cleaning about three times a year. Many homeowners do the cleaning themselves; however, others elect to hire a cleaning service to do it for them. Gutter cleaning costs $100 to $200.

Other Pricing Factors to Consider

There are additional hidden costs that influence the overall price of gutters. For example, the steeper the roof incline of the house, the higher the price of installation. Likewise, a one-story house will cost less than a two-story house. Wire mesh screens are very inexpensive and a great solution to keep insects or small animals from inhabiting the gutter system. These screens cost roughly $1 per foot.

According to experts like expert roof repair services, gutters are an essential feature of your home. They keep water away from the foundation and prevent wear and tear. Whichever system you decide is best for your home, it is important to invest time and money into a proper gutter system and ask a roofing installation expert like Clark Roofing & Siding | Virginia Beach, VA that does residential roof replacements for guidance. This will ensure the longevity of your home and prevent any serious damage in the future.