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On average, the cost to replace gutters is about $1,900, depending on the size of the home. Costs can range anywhere from $4 to $30 per linear foot with less expensive materials falling closer to $4 per linear foot and higher-end materials falling more toward $30 per linear foot. The type of gutter you have installed will also make a difference. Half-round gutters are more cost-effective, while custom-built fascia gutters are pricier.

Gutter guards do not cause ice dams, but they can make it more difficult for melting snow to drain by blocking smaller chunks of ice that might otherwise drain away in uncovered gutters. If you find ice dams forming on top of your gutter guards, you may want to remove them for the winter to aid in faster drainage.

When soffits aren’t vented, the airflow can’t infiltrate your attic space which results in stale air trapped inside. Over time—sometimes very quickly—that trapped air can result in a moisture sink, causing rapidly growing mold issues throughout the home. You should generally avoid covering or fully closing off soffits, even in the winter months, as the ability to circulate air is far more important than the meager increase in heating costs.

If you do end up with frozen gutters, it's important to thaw them correctly. Thawing your gutters slowly is far safer than trying to break apart the ice. Once you get through the ice, bring in a gutter professional to check out the effectiveness of your heated system.