The Real Deal: How Much Does Gutter Replacement Cost?

Let’s be honest. Gutters and downspouts are some of the unsung heroes of home care. They’re not as sexy as say, a backyard wood-fired pizza oven, and they’re not a ton of fun to clean.  But when you realize all they do to protect your house against flood-related damage to your roof and foundation, it’s easy to see why this project is worth it. 

Taking home size and specific details into account, the average cost to replace gutters comes in at about $1,900. To help you understand the ins and outs, we’ve put together this gutter replacement cost guide, so read on for everything you need to know.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Gutters per Linear Foot?

Is it just a part of your gutter system that needs changing? If so, you can consider patching it in the short term. It costs an average of $4 to $30 per linear foot to replace gutters. This range depends on the materials used, such as basic aluminum or high-end copper.

If you find you need more extensive gutter repairs, it may just be cheaper in the long run to replace your whole gutter system. Also, a total gutter replacement will likely have more curb appeal than the patchwork approach. 

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Gutters Yourself?

If you decide to replace your gutters yourself, you can pocket the labor costs of approximately $75 per hour. Of course you’ll still have to pay for the gutters themselves, which can run between $3 and $30 per linear foot, depending on the material.

That said, gutter replacement wouldn’t make our Top 10 list for a DIY home project. First off all, replacing gutters involves quite a bit of difficult and potentially dangerous work  on a ladder at rooftop height. Next, to do a DIY gutter replacement, you’ll first have to remove your problematic gutters, and frankly, it can get pretty dirty and gross when leaves and other materials mix with rainwater and start to break down. 

Then of course there’s how essential properly installed gutters are to your home’s wellbeing. Unlike painting a room or hanging up some shelves, a less-than-perfect DIY gutter replacement can cause problems—and extra costs—further down the line. So whether your motto is “safety first,” or “I want it done right,” you might consider bringing in a seasoned pro to help. You can easily contact a gutter installation professional near you for a personalized quote.

"The most commonly used gutters today are seamless gutters, which are rolled out on site with a special machine, called a brake,” says Ami Feller of Feller Roofing. “Seamless gutters are much less prone to leak because they have less joints and seams. As inexpensive as gutters are, it just makes good sense to hire a professional installer who has the correct equipment."

Gutter Replacement Cost Breakdown

The main factors that influence the cost to replace gutters are removal and disposal, materials, and labor.

Removal and Disposal

Before you install new gutters, you’ll need someone to remove and take away your old gutters. This typically costs around $100.

Materials

Not surprisingly, it’s the materials that make up the bulk of the cost of replacing gutters. Depending on which type  you choose, materials cost between $4 and $30 per linear foot on average. (Hint: keep reading below for the scoop on costs for varying types of gutter replacement materials.)

Labor

If you do decide to have your new gutters professionally installed, you’ll also need to pay for labor. Labor costs to replace gutters typically run about $75 per hour.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Gutters by Type?

Different types of gutters come with varying price tags. Let’s break down the costs for the most common gutter materials, including aluminum, copper, and stainless steel.

• Aluminum: $4–$7 per linear foot

• Copper: $15–$30 per linear foot

• Stainless Steel: $9–$20 per linear foot

• Vinyl: $3–$5 per linear foot

• Wood:  $12–$20 per linear foot

Aluminum

Aluminum gutters are easier on the wallet and generally cost from $4 to $7 per linear foot. They're simple to install but keep in mind, they also can be more prone to damage by debris and wind, so they may not last quite as long as some other options.

Copper

Copper is an extremely durable gutter option but costs about $15 to $30 per linear foot, so it may not be right for every project. While it’s true that copper is more pricey than some other materials, pros will tell you that the strength and durability of copper gutters means that you won’t have to replace or repair them as often, and that might be worth considering.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel gutters range in price from $9 to $20 per linear foot. They require a lot of upfront maintenance, but steel gutters and downspouts are the workhorses of the gutter universe. They’re generally more resistant to dings and leaks, and can last a lifetime if properly maintained.

Vinyl

Vinyl is one of the most economical gutter options at $3 to $5 per linear foot. But as with most things, you may get what you pay for. Vinyl gutters can be a bit more fragile, as the material can crack and become damaged over the years. So depending upon your time horizon and your budget, it may or may not be the best choice if you’re looking for a more durable option.

Wood

Wood gutters cost around $12 to $20 per linear foot. While this type of gutter creates a distinctive look that might be more in sync with your home’s signature style, it’s also, well, wood, so naturally it’s more prone to deterioration and rot.

How Much Does Replacing Gutters Cost by Style?

Yes, even gutters have style. Luckily, it’s not too complicated. There are just two main gutter styles: sectional and seamless gutters.

Sectional Gutters

Sectional gutters are quite simply pre-cut sections that you connect together to suit your needs. This makes them a more affordable option for homeowners on a budget. But while they come at a lower price point, it’s also true that because they rely on connected seams, they may be more likely to leak, and are often seen as less long-lasting than seamless gutters.

Seamless Gutters

Seamless gutters are made from one piece of material without any seams. The benefits: fewer opportunities for leaks and less required maintenance. The reality: they’re more expensive than sectional gutters. But do take into account that seamless gutter installation can sometimes be more convenient, and possibly less labor-intensive, than cutting and joining sectional gutter pieces to fit.

What Factors Influence the Cost to Replace Gutters?

There are really just two main factors that influence the cost of replacing gutters: the size of your home and the material you choose.

Home Size

Most companies charge per foot for a complete gutter replacement, so your home’s height and size also affect the material price and labor costs. A larger or longer home naturally requires more linear feet of gutter, and that will increase the price. Your home’s height also may raise the expense if taller ladders and other special equipment are needed for the installation.

Material

When you’re thinking about gutter replacement costs, material choice is another key factor. Materials can range anywhere from $3 to $30 per linear foot. Aluminum and vinyl are more affordable options, while copper and stainless steel are more expensive.

FAQs About Replacing Gutters

Are gutter guards worth it?

Many gutter companies recommend installing gutter guards. Gutter guards can protect your new system against damage and save you trouble and money on cleaning costs. There are many types of leaf guards, and it’s worth doing the research on what kind is best for the type of debris and foliage your gutters typically collect. If you don't have foliage, or your trees are not mature, you may not need gutter guards. For homes with a lot of trees, it saves a lot of time and effort.

How do I maintain my gutters?

Once you’ve installed your gutters, you'll need to maintain them. You should definitely clean your gutters once or twice a year to keep them in tip-top shape and functioning correctly. But if climbing a ladder and scooping out handfuls of wet leaf gunk is just not your thing, you can easily hire a professional gutter cleaner near you to do the job. Either way, when your gutters are standing guard around your home on a rainy day, they’ll thank you.

Why are good gutters important anyway?

Clogged gutters can damage the exterior of your beautiful home, ruin your landscaping, and even compromise your foundation. The debris builds up and creates a dam, which causes water to run uphill into the roof and soffit, damaging them both, along with your fascia. So although gutters might not be the most exciting part of home maintenance, it’s super important to have quality gutters that work well and to keep them clean so they can do their job protecting your home, day-in and day-out.