Gutters may not be the flashiest part of your home, but they play an important role in protecting it from water damage. You can expect to pay an average of $9.80 to $14.80 per linear foot for new gutters, including materials and labor.
That means that you’ll pay around $1,470 to $2,220 to install 150 linear feet of gutters in your home. Depending on the gutter material, style, and type, costs can range from as low as $4 to as high as $40 per linear foot.
This guide gathers data from big and small cities in the U.S. so you can get a better idea of how much your gutter installation project will cost you.
Cost by Location
The cost of gutters can vary significantly based on where you live. Areas with higher living costs generally have higher labor and material expenses, which can result in higher gutter installation costs.
Moreover, regions with extreme weather patterns, such as heavy rainfall, snowfall, cold weather, or high winds, may require gutters with additional durability and special features to withstand the elements.
The table below offers a snapshot of the costs to install gutters in different cities across the country:
| City | Cost per Linear Foot (Including Labor and Materials) |
| Northeast U.S. | |
| Old Saybrook, CT | $10 – $15.20 |
| New York, NY | $11.40 – $17.80 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Kennesaw, GA | $9 – $13.30 |
| Memphis, TN | $9.10 – $13.40 |
| Sarasota, FL | $9.40 – $14 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| Indianapolis, IN | $9.50 – $14.30 |
| Cedar Rapids, IL | $9.70 – $14.50 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Corvallis, OR | $9.60 – $14.40 |
| Seattle, WA | $10.80 – $16.60 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| Houston, TX | $9.20 – $13.50 |
| Roswell, NM | $9.20 – $13.70 |
| Scotts Valley, CA | $11 – $17 |
Cost Estimator by Size
To determine the overall cost of gutter installation, you’ll have to consider various factors, like how many feet of gutters are required.
So, with gutter installation costs ranging from $9.80 to $14.80 per linear foot, you can use the table below to estimate the price of your project:
| Gutter Length (In Linear Feet) | Average Cost (Including Materials and Labor) |
| 50 | $490 – $740 |
| 100 | $980 – $1,480 |
| 150 | $1,470 – $2,220 |
| 200 | $1,960 – $2,960 |
| 250 | $2,450 – $3,700 |
Cost by Gutter Material
Since different materials offer varying levels of durability, maintenance requirements, and visual appeal, you need to understand the options available and their associated costs. Here are the most common gutter materials and their costs:
| Type of Material | Average Cost Per Linear Foot (Materials and Labor) |
| Vinyl (PVC) | $4 – $8 |
| Galvanized Steel | $6 – $17 |
| Aluminum | $8.10 – $19.20 |
| Zinc | $14 – $30 |
| Wood | $18 – $31 |
| Copper | $20 – $40 |
Vinyl (PVC)
Homeowners looking for a low-cost and low-maintenance option will love vinyl gutters. Not only are these PVC gutters affordable and require minimal maintenance, but they are also lightweight and resistant to rust and rot.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel gutters offer a cost-effective option for homeowners seeking reliable performance and a longer lifespan than other gutter materials. Coated with a layer of zinc, these steel gutters are more tolerant of rust and corrosion.
Aluminum
Aluminum gutters are lightweight and affordable, and they offer excellent corrosion resistance that can withstand various weather conditions. They’re a budget-friendly option for many homeowners. If you opt for thicker-gauge aluminum, it will be more expensive yet more durable.
Zinc
With a lifespan of 50 years or more, zinc gutters are highly durable and develop an attractive patina over time. While they require a higher upfront investment, their exceptional resistance to corrosion, low maintenance requirements, and malleability for customization make them a valuable long-term investment.
Wood
Wood gutters evoke a sense of traditional charm and can be customized to match your home’s architectural style. They require regular maintenance, including sealing and painting, to protect against moisture damage.
Copper
Copper gutters are beautiful and long-lasting. Over time, they develop a distinct patina, lending a unique charm to your home’s exterior. While copper gutters require a higher upfront investment, they offer exceptional durability and can last several decades with proper maintenance.
Cost by Gutter Type
You can install either sectional gutters or seamless gutters. Each type has its own advantages and price range, allowing homeowners to select the option that best fits their needs and budget.
| Type of Gutter | Average Cost Per Linear Foot |
| Sectional | $4 – $18 |
| Seamless | $6 – $39 |
Sectional Gutters
Sectional gutters are the more traditional and commonly found option. These gutters are manufactured in smaller sections that are connected during installation using sealants or snap-on connectors.
The cost of sectional gutters is around $4 to $18 per linear foot, depending on factors such as material, size, and complexity of the installation. While sectional gutters offer an affordable solution, the seams between the sections may be susceptible to leaks and call for regular maintenance.
Seamless Gutters
On the other hand, seamless gutters provide a sleek and seamless appearance, as their name suggests. These gutters are custom-made to fit the exact dimensions of your home, eliminating the need for joints and reducing the risk of leaks.
These gutters are typically fabricated on-site using a specialized machine that shapes a continuous length of gutter material to the desired specifications. Generally, seamless gutters cost from $6 to $39 per linear foot.
Although seamless gutters may have more expensive upfront costs, their seamless design minimizes the chances of leaks, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and potential repairs.
Labor Costs
Labor costs encompass the efforts involved in measuring, cutting, fitting, and securely attaching the gutters to your home. You can expect to pay between $3 and $11 per linear foot for labor alone.
Costs will vary depending on complexity of the gutter system, the number of sections to be installed (in the case of sectional gutters), and the overall scope of your home improvement project.
Other Factors That Affect Cost
Additional elements affect the overall cost while ensuring your gutter system meets your specific needs and preferences. Understanding these factors will help you find the perfect balance between quality and affordability.
Gutter Style
The style of your gutters not only adds a touch of architectural character to your home but also affects their functionality and overall project cost. Generally, the more intricate the style of a gutter, the higher the price.
K-style gutters are the most common gutter type and also one of the least expensive ones, while Victorian ogee are the most expensive and more common in period properties.
- Fascia gutters: Fascia gutters offer a streamlined appearance that eliminates the need for additional brackets or hangers – resulting in a more cost-effective installation process. They also provide structural support to the roof’s edge, enhancing the system’s durability and stability.
- Half-round gutters: While high-end options of half-round gutters may require more investment, the timeless appeal and superior water flow make them a popular choice. Plus, these U-shaped gutters are particularly effective at channeling water efficiently, minimizing clogs.
- K-style gutters: Also known as ogee gutters, these gutters feature a distinct shape with a flat bottom and decorative curves on the front side. This style has become widely popular due to its versatility and efficient water-diversion capabilities.
- V-shaped gutters: Characterized by their triangular shape, these gutters offer a unique appearance. While they may require a slightly higher investment than other gutter styles, their distinctive look can enhance the architectural charm of your property.
- Victorian ogee gutters: These gutters have a decorative S-shaped profile. They are designed to complement Victorian and vintage-style homes, adding a touch of nostalgic charm.
Gutter Width
The width of your gutters can impact how effectively your gutter system manages water flow and prevents clogs. Different gutter widths are available to accommodate various roof sizes and rainfall volumes.
The standard width for residential gutters is 5 inches, which works well for average-sized homes in areas with moderate rainfall. 4-inch gutters are typically used on smaller homes or in regions that receive light rain, and they tend to be less expensive.
For homes in areas that experience heavy rain, we recommend 6- or 7-inch gutters. They can handle more water, reducing the risk of overflow and water damage. However, they come at a higher price point.
Home Height
Another factor to consider when estimating the cost of gutter installation is the height of your home. As the height increases, additional equipment and labor are often required to install gutters safely and effectively.
- One-story homes: These homes require less labor and equipment than taller structures, resulting in a more affordable installation process.
- Two-story homes: If you have a two-story home, professional installation costs will increase due to the added complexity and height involved. It requires ladders and scaffolding to ensure a safe installation.
- Three or more stories: The installation process becomes more challenging, requiring advanced equipment, specialized skills, and potentially longer project durations, increasing costs.
Downspouts
Downspout are important for any gutter system, as it carries water from the gutters to the ground. Upgrading or adding downspouts can help manage heavy rainfall and prevent overflow. The cost of downspouts usually ranges from $7.80 to $28 per linear foot.
Depending on the size and configuration of your home, you may require multiple downspouts to effectively channel water away from your foundation.
Leaf Guards
Also known as gutter guards, leaf guards offer a solution to the problem of debris accumulation in gutters. These guards prevent leaves, twigs, and other debris from clogging the gutters, reducing the need for frequent cleaning.
Depending on the type and quality of the leaf guard, the cost for gutter guards ranges from $8 to $28 per linear foot.
Roof Accessibility
Another factor affecting gutter installation costs is how easy or difficult it is for gutter installers to access and work on your roof. Your roof’s height, pitch, and design complexity can impact the time, effort, and equipment required for a successful installation.
- The taller the roof, the more intricate and time-consuming the installation process becomes. Installers may require ladders, scaffolding, or cranes to safely access higher areas.
- Steeper roofs with a high pitch pose additional challenges, as installers must navigate slopes and take precautions to ensure their safety.
- Complex roof designs, such as multiple levels, dormers, or architectural features, can also influence the accessibility and installation process. These intricate designs may require custom-fabricated gutter systems or additional time and effort to ensure a proper fit.
FAQ
On average, well-maintained gutters can last between 20 and 50 years, although the lifespan depends upon the material used. Aluminum and vinyl gutters typically last around 20 to 30 years, while copper and stainless steel gutters can last significantly longer, often up to 50 years or more.
While it’s possible to perform a DIY gutter installation, it’s better to hire a professional for this task. Installing gutters requires specialized skills and knowledge to ensure proper alignment, secure attachment, and effective water drainage.
Improper installation can lead to costly damages, such as leaks, water overflow, and structural issues.
Stay Ahead of the Storm
Now is the perfect opportunity to take proactive steps in safeguarding your home with a reliable and efficient gutter system. Choosing the right material, width, and style — and installing them correctly —can make a big difference in protecting your home during storms.
Luckily, Home Gnome delivers the best home service experience at the click of a button. Book reliable, gutter installation services and leave the rest to us.
Maria Isabela Reis contributed to this article.
- Read More:
- How Much Does Gutter Repair Cost?
- How to Install or Replace Gutters
- Signs You Have Clogged Gutters
- Know the Best Time of Year to Clean Your Gutters
Main Photo Credit: Victor / Adobe Stock Free / License
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