There are several reasons that homeowners elect to install new gutters – to enhance curb appeal, raise their resale value, as a home improvement project, or because wear and tear require them to be replaced. The first question on your mind is probably how much installing new gutters will cost you. Here’s a look at what you can expect.
Various Types of Gutter Materials
1. Vinyl Gutters
Out of the various types of gutter materials to choose from, vinyl is highly popular among homeowners due to its cost-effective price point. Depending on what kind of vinyl you select, you can expect to pay between $4 and $8 per foot. While vinyl gutters are incredibly lightweight, they don’t have as long of a lifespan as other, more durable, materials do. If not appropriately maintained or replaced when needed, cracked vinyl gutters can lead to leaks and damages inside your home.
2. Aluminum Gutters
Aluminum gutters are characterized as being both durable and lightweight. When purchasing this material, you can expect to spend approximately $4 to $7 per foot. Aluminum gutters are rust-resistant, meaning they can endure different climates. However, they aren’t entirely indestructible. High winds, hail, and debris can dent and damage aluminum gutters. On a positive note, they are straightforward to customize as paint can be applied seamlessly.
3. Steel Gutters
There are two different kinds of steel gutters, stainless and galvanized. Galvanized tends to be the more popular choice between the two due to its lower price point. Steel gutters are much sturdier than aluminum, and stainless steel is virtually indestructible. Of course, selecting a higher-grade material means paying a higher price. You can expect to spend between $9 and $20 per foot if you choose to use this material.
4. Copper Gutters
Copper is at the top of the food chain when it comes to gutter materials. The sturdy and rust-resistant material can resist heavy rain, snow, and bad weather. The best part? Their robust, sturdy build doesn’t deter from the way they look aesthetically. They can be quite visually appealing and add to the beauty of your home. You can expect to spend between $15 and $30 per foot for copper gutters. Although the initial investment is pricey, they have a long shelf life and a ton of benefits.
Cost of Labor
In addition to the price of materials, you’ll have to factor in labor costs when considering your total gutter budget. Hiring a reputable and professional roofing contractor requires you to do a bit of research to ensure they produce high-quality work. Many homeowners believe they can take on this job as a DIY project, but wind up shelling out extra cash when they realize the job requires a professional. Labor costs are going to differ depending on where you live and the scope of work needed. However, to ensure you budget appropriately, it’s wise to put away a couple thousand dollars to cover labor costs.
House size, materials, and gutter enhancements are all factors that will influence the cost of installing new gutters. Once you find a professional roofing specialist to aid you in your journey, however, they will be able to provide some expert guidance on how to approach your new gutter project.
