Gutters do a great job of protecting homes from water damage, but over time, they can be damaged or fall into disrepair. The average cost of repairing gutters is $217 to $698, including materials and labor.
Whether you need to fix a leaking gutter, replace a damaged downspout, or resolve other common gutter issues, expect the repair costs to be as low as $4 per linear foot or as high as $35.50 per linear foot.
This article gathers data from both small and large cities across the U.S. so you can get a better idea what it costs to repair your home’s gutters.
Cost by Location
Your location can affect the cost of gutter repair considerably. Regional labor rates, accessibility, and local market conditions can influence pricing across different areas.
Gutter repair prices may be slightly more expensive in urban areas where labor rates are higher. So if you live in an affluent neighborhood or upscale community, you may experience higher overall pricing for gutter repair services.
Geographic location and climate also influence gutter repair costs. Areas prone to heavy rainfall, snowfall, or extreme weather conditions may require more frequent and intensive gutter repairs. See the table below for a snapshot of the costs to repair gutters across the U.S.:
| City | Average Cost (Materials and Labor) |
| Northeast U.S. | |
| Toms River, NJ | $222 – $706 |
| Buffalo, NY | $245 – $762 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Jacksonville, FL | $179 – $587 |
| Greenville, SC | $192 – $631 |
| Atlanta, GA | $209 – $657 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| Omaha, NE | $186 – $591 |
| Columbus, OH | $212 – $696 |
| Chicago, IL | $249 – $813 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Portland, OR | $229 – $741 |
| Seattle, WA | $242 – $790 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| Dallas, TX | $193 – $630 |
| Santa Fe, NM | $214 – $676 |
| San Diego, CA | $252 – $800 |
The national average cost of gutter repair is $217 to $698. However, it’s important to note that the actual price you may pay can vary depending on several factors, including the extent of the repair, the type of gutter material, and your location.
Cost by Type of Material
The material used in your gutter system plays a significant role in the cost of repairs. Common types of materials include aluminum, copper, galvanized steel, and vinyl. Vinyl and aluminum are the most common and also the least expensive, while copper gutters cost nearly four times as much.
Here are the average repair costs associated with each material:
| Type of Material | Average Cost per Linear Foot |
| Vinyl | $4 – $7.50 |
| Aluminum | $5 – $8.50 |
| Galvanized steel | $8 – $14 |
| Copper | $17.50 – $35.50 |
Vinyl
Vinyl gutters are inexpensive and easy to install. Repairing these gutters typically involves fixing leaks, cracks, or sections that have come loose.
The cost of repairs is relatively low compared to other gutter materials, making vinyl an attractive option for homeowners on a budget. Note, though, that vinyl gutters may not offer the same level of durability as metal options and may require frequent repairs or replacement over time.
Aluminum
Many homeowners prefer aluminum gutters because they are durable, affordable, and resist corrosion. Common repairs include fixing leaks, addressing dents or cracks, and ensuring proper alignment.
The specific repair needed and the extent of the damage will influence the final cost. Aluminum gutter repairs are relatively straightforward and can often be completed quickly.
Galvanized Steel
Even with their strength and resistance to extreme weather conditions, galvanized steel gutters can rust, leak, or tear loose under the weight of falling tree limbs.
Repair costs vary depending on the extent of the repair and the specific issue that needs to be resolved. Galvanized steel gutters are a durable option, and with proper maintenance and timely repairs, they can last for many years.
Copper
Popular for their elegant appearance and exceptional longevity, copper gutters are more expensive than most materials due to the premium price of copper and the specialized skills required to work with it.
Copper gutter repairs often involve addressing leaks, replacing damaged sections, and maintaining the patina finish. While repairing these gutters is more expensive than other types of material, they offer timeless aesthetics and outstanding durability that make them worth every penny.
Cost by Gutter Style
The style of your gutter can significantly impact the cost of repairs. Let’s explore three gutter styles – box, half-round, and K-style – and their respective cost ranges.
| Gutter Style | Average Cost per Linear Foot |
| K-style | $8 – $16 |
| Half-round | $10 – $18 |
| Box | $19 – $76 |
K-Style Gutters
Also referred to as ogee, K-style is the most common gutter style found on homes. These gutters have a flat back and a decorative front with various profiles available. The popularity and availability of these gutters make repairs more accessible and affordable.
Half-Round Gutters
As the name suggests, half-round gutters have a semi-circular shape – giving them a classic and elegant look. These gutters are often seen on older or historical homes, providing distinctive charm. While repairs for half-round gutters may require specialized techniques, their simpler design generally keeps the cost within a moderate range.
Box Gutters
Also called square gutters, box gutters are rectangular and are often integrated into the roofline. This gutter style is commonly found in commercial buildings and some traditional residential structures. Their larger capacity and architectural integration can make repairs more complex and, consequently, more expensive.
Cost by Type of Issue
Your rain gutters are subjected to various issues over time, ranging from clogs and leaks to structural damage. Each type of issue requires different repair techniques and materials – affecting the overall cost of gutter repairs.
Here are the most common types of gutter issues and their associated repair costs:
| Type of Issue | Average Costs |
| Improper pitch | $78 – $233 |
| Sagging gutters | $77 – $367 |
| Gutter leaks | $85 – $205 |
| Clogged gutters | $130 – $325 |
- Improper pitch: An improper slope can occur when other components such as brackets or gangers become loose or damaged. When the pitch is off, water may pool in the gutters instead of flowing toward the downspouts.
- Sagging gutters: Your gutters can sag due to accumulated debris, inadequate support, or damaged hangers. Correcting this issue without delay prevents water pooling and potential damage to your roof and fascia.
- Gutter leaks: Leaks can occur at joints, seams, or connections, causing water to seep into your home’s foundation.
- Clogged gutters: If you ignore this problem, it can lead to water overflow and potential water damage to your home.
Cost by Gutter Type
The choice between seamless and sectional gutters can have an impact on both the functionality and the cost of repairs. Understanding the differences between these gutter types is essential for making informed decisions about repairs and their associated expenses.
| Type of Gutter | Typical Price Range |
| Sectional/Seamed | $100 – $337 |
| Seamless | $137 – $500 |
Sectional Gutters
These gutters are made up of pre-cut pieces assembled and connected with seals or brackets. They are more commonly found in older homes and may require more maintenance and repairs due to the presence of joints that can be prone to leaks.
Still, the lower cost and ease of installation of sectional gutters make them a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
Seamless Gutters
Seamless gutters tend to be slightly more expensive than fixing sectional gutters. But their superior performance and durability make them a worthwhile investment for a long-term gutter system.
Due to their sleek appearance and minimal maintenance requirements, seamless gutters have gained popularity over the years. Custom-made for each home, these gutters require no joints along the length of the gutter. This seamless design minimizes the potential for leaks and reduces the accumulation of debris.
Cost by Home Height
Your home’s height is another crucial factor influencing the cost of gutter repairs. As your home’s number of stories increases, the complexity of accessing and repairing the gutters becomes greater.
| Home Height | Average Price |
| One story | $223 |
| Two stories | $357 |
| Three stories or more | $479 |
- For a single-story home, gutter repair costs around $223. But it can still vary depending on the type and extent of repairs needed.
- If you live in a two-story home, you can expect slightly higher gutter repair costs. The additional height introduces additional challenges and safety precautions for accessing and repairing the gutters. On average, the repair cost for a two-story home can range around $357.
- For houses with three stories or more, gutter repairs can cost around $479 since working at such heights requires specialized equipment, safety measures, and expertise.
Labor Costs
The expertise and effort required to assess, diagnose, and fix gutter issues contribute to the labor costs associated with the repair process. Additionally, the complexity of the repair, the type of gutter system, and the extent of the damage all contribute to the labor costs involved.
On average, labor costs can range from $50 to $125 per hour. These costs usually include the time spent on evaluating the gutter system, removing debris, repairing or replacing damaged sections, and ensuring proper functionality.
The urgency and immediate response required for emergency repairs can also impact labor costs.
Other Factors That Affect Cost
While the type of material used for your guttering system certainly influences the cost of repairs, several other factors can contribute to the overall expenses involved in restoring and maintaining their functionality. Understanding these elements will allow you to anticipate the potential expenses associated with gutter repair projects:
Type of Repair
The most common types of gutter repairs include repairing downspouts, drain pipes, gutter corners, gutter seams, and leaf guards. Here are a few gutter parts to keep in mind:
- Downspout: Remember to promptly repair any damaged or clogged downspouts to maintain efficient water drainage and prevent potential water damage to your home’s exterior. Repairing downspout will usually cost less than other gutter parts.
- Drain pipe: Repairing drain pipes focuses on fixing any issues with the drainage system connected to your gutters. Costs are usually low, depending on the extent of the damage.
- Gutter corner: Damage in the gutter corners usually mean there are leaks. Your overall repair costs will still depend on the complexity of the repair and the materials involved.
- Gutter seam: Problems with your gutter seams must be addressed immediately to ensure your gutter system effectively directs water away from your home. This type of repair focuses on fixing any leaks or separations along the gutter seams.
- Leaf guard: Even the best gutter guards may need repairs due to unforeseen reasons. The repair process often involves fixing issues with the protective system installed on gutters to prevent debris buildup and clogs. Costs will depend on the extent of the damage.
Amount of Guttering
The amount of guttering involved in the repair also affects the overall cost. Generally, the more extensive the gutter system, the higher the repair costs. But it can still vary due to other factors.
To obtain an accurate cost estimate for your specific gutter repair project, it’s advisable to consult with a reputable gutter repair company. They can assess your guttering system, including your downspout and gutter guard installation, and provide you with a free quote detailing the specific material and repair considerations for your home improvement project.
Roof Accessibility
The difficulty or ease of accessing the roof directly affects the time, effort, and equipment required to perform the necessary repairs. In some cases, the roof’s accessibility can be straightforward, with a single-story building allowing easy access for gutter repair professionals. This scenario typically involves minimal effort and time, translating into lower labor costs.
However, as the height and complexity of the roof increase, so does the level of difficulty and the associated expenses. For two-story or multi-story buildings, gutter repair professionals may require specialized equipment, such as ladders, scaffolding, or aerial lifts, to safely access and work on the gutters.
Factors such as steep roof pitches, architectural complexities, or obstructions like trees or adjacent structures can further impact roof accessibility. The more challenging it is to access the roof, the more time and effort are involved – resulting in increased labor costs.
Upgrades and Add-Ons
When dealing with gutter repairs, you should also consider upgrades and add-ons to enhance the functionality and durability of your gutter system.
One common upgrade is the installation of gutter guards or leaf guards. Gutter guards come in various styles and materials, such as mesh screens or solid covers, and their installation can incur additional costs. The cost of gutter guard installation ranges from $5.75 to $12.25 per linear foot.
Insurance and Warranties
Insurance coverage can help alleviate the financial burden of fixing unexpected gutter problems, while warranties can offer reassurance that the repair costs for certain issues may be covered. However, you must review and understand the terms and conditions of your insurance policy and warranty agreements to determine the extent of coverage and any limitations or exclusions.
FAQ
If you have basic handyman skills, yes, you can resolve minor issues, such as removing debris or patching small holes. However, gutter repair tasks can vary in complexity, and attempting more significant repairs without proper knowledge and experience can potentially lead to further damage or personal injury.
While DIY gutter repair may seem cost-effective initially, you must consider the potential risks and limitations. Improper repairs can lead to more extensive damage and costly repairs down the line. It’s better to rely on the expertise of professionals so you can have peace of mind knowing your gutter repairs are carried out efficiently and effectively.
If you neglect to repair a leaking gutter, it can lead to a range of problems and potential damage to your home. Here are some consequences that can occur if you don’t address a leaking gutter:
• Water damage: Leaking gutters allow water to overflow or pool around your home’s foundation, walls, or roof. This can result in water seepage into your basement or crawl space, leading to mold growth, structural damage, and compromised foundation integrity.
• Landscape damage: Overflowing water from a leaking gutter can erode the soil around your home, causing damage to your landscaping. Plants, flowers, and trees near the foundation may suffer from excessive water exposure, and soil erosion can create uneven ground or sinkholes.
• Fascia and soffit damage: Leaking gutters can cause water to drip onto the soffit and fascia boards. This exposure to moisture can lead to rotting, weakening the structural integrity of these components and potentially requiring costly repairs or replacements.
• Gutter deterioration: Continuous water leakage can contribute to the deterioration of the gutter system itself. Rust, corrosion, or rotting of the gutter material can compromise its functionality, leading to further leaks, sagging, or even complete failure of the gutter system.
• Pest infestations: Standing water in clogged or leaking gutters provides an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, insects, and other pests. These pests can not only be a nuisance but also may pose health risks to you and your family.
Address gutter leaks promptly to prevent these issues from escalating and protect the overall condition and value of your home.
Keep Your Gutters in Top Shape
Timely gutter repairs are essential for preventing water damage, maintaining proper drainage, and extending the lifespan of your gutter system.
Luckily, Home Gnome delivers the best home service experience at the click of a button. Book reliable, skilled gutter maintenance services and leave the rest to us.
Read More:
— How to Install or Replace Gutters
— Signs You Have Clogged Gutters
— Know the Best Time of Year to Clean Your Gutters
— Different Types of Gutter Guards
Main Image Credit: U. J. Alexander / Adobe Stock Free / License
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