Installing quality gutters is a an important aspect of maintaining the exterior of your house. Aluminum gutters are not glamorous, yet they ensure that your house is protected from leaks.
Homeowners report spending $1,500 – 1,800 to install 150 ln.ft. of seamless aluminum gutters, including all materials, such as downspouts, and professional labor.
If you are ready to replace your old gutters, contact your local gutter installers for FREE Estimates!
Average Cost Of Aluminum Gutters
On average, installing aluminum gutters costs $1,500 for 150 linear feet. This includes removal of old gutters and installation of downspouts.
Depending on gutter size and style, the project can range between $1,100 and $2,000.
The least you can expect to pay for new aluminum gutters is around $950, whereas a high end, extensive project can cost as much as $2,500.
Per linear foot, an aluminum gutter will cost $8 to $12, making them one of the most affordable gutter systems available.
| Average Aluminum Gutters Cost | $1,500 |
|---|---|
| Cost per Linear Foot | $6 – $12 |
| Average Cost Range | $1,100 – $2,000 |
| Minimum Cost | $950 |
| Maximum Cost | $2,500 |
Installation Cost Of Aluminum Gutters
The cost of labor will constitute a significant portion of what you pay for new gutters.
You can use our Gutter Cost Calculator to get a quick and accurate estimate of how much your gutters will cost.
Depending on the contractor, you will be charged by hour, by linear foot, or by project. Most gutter installers charge $1-7 per linear foot to install seamless gutters, depending on the size and complexity of the project.
Did You Know? Even if your gutter replacement job is very small, for example 5 feet, your contractor will still charge you a minimum rate for this install $400-475. This is because its not worth it for them to do the job for less.
When installing a new aluminum gutter, first the contractor will inspect your roof and existing gutters and take measurements.
The size of your gutters depends on the slope of your roof, which impacts how much water enters the gutter system at a given point.
Gutters are hung from either the fascia or the roofline. The gutters will be hung over twelve to twenty-four inches; twelve inches apart is a more durable but pricey option.
Styles Of Aluminum Gutters
Aluminum gutters are available in several styles.
K-Style gutters are the most popular, as well as most affordable, type of aluminum
gutters. They cost around $3 per linear foot.
K-Style gutters are sometimes known as ogee gutters because of their rolled shape. K-Style gutters can be attached to a roof or fascia in a variety of ways.
Another option is a fascia gutter, which smoothly connects the gutter to your home’s fascia. If your home does not have a fascia board, this type of gutter would attach to the eaves, and in this case be called an eaves gutter.
A fascia or eaves gutter costs $5 per linear foot.
Half-round aluminum gutters are a more high-end style, and are priced accordingly at $7 per linear foot.
Half-round gutters are commonly made from copper, but can also be made from aluminum. Keep in mind that half-round aluminum gutters require a visible hanging system to be installed.
Another style to consider is the European aluminum gutter, which is almost exactly like a half-round aluminum gutter except the upper lip of the gutter rolls outward rather than inward.
European-style aluminum gutters cost the same as a half-round aluminum gutter, at $7 per linear
foot.
Cost Of Seamed vs. Seamless Aluminum Gutters
There are two types of aluminum gutters you can purchase: seamed or seamless. Seamed aluminum gutters cost between $4 and $9 per linear foot, whereas seamless aluminum gutters are more pricey, costing between $8 and $14 per linear foot.
Seamed aluminum gutters are assembled in pieces, usually between five and twenty feet long. The pieces are joined using a connector, and caulked to prevent leaks. Over time, though, seamed aluminum gutters can experience leaks.
Seamless aluminum gutters, while more pricey, are less prone to leakage. The only seams are at the downspouts and corners, minimizing the risk of leaks. Seamless gutters are also easier and faster to install than seamed gutters, as they are installed in larger sections.
The materials for seamless gutters are a little more pricey than for seamed gutters, though, so the lower cost for easy installation will balance out with the higher material cost.
Aluminum Gutter Prices vs. Other Gutter Materials
Aluminum is a popular gutter choice because of its affordable and lightweight nature. There are other gutter material options on the market that you may want to consider before settling on an aluminum gutter to ensure you choose the best gutter material for your home.
The table below compares the cost of aluminum gutters per linear foot to other gutter types.
| Gutter Material | Cost per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $6 – $12 |
| Vinyl | $3 – $4 |
| Stainless Steel | $15 |
| Galvanized Steel | $5 |
| Copper | $25 – $40 |
| Wood | $20 – $30 |
Pros of Aluminum Gutters
An aluminum gutter has many appealing features that make it a good choice for homeowners.
Reasonable Cost: When compared to other metals such as steel or zinc, aluminum is a less costly option for gutters. Per linear foot, an aluminum gutter costs between $6 and $14, compared to other metal gutters that can reach as high as $30 per linear foot.
Rust-resistant: Aluminum does not rust, making it the perfect choice for gutters that are exposed to significant amounts of water. However, aluminum can corrode if in contact with some other
metals, so be sure to isolate it to prevent corrosion.
Color options: Aluminum can be coated in a range of hues to match your home’s siding. If you repaint your home, you can get your gutters repainted as well to match the new exterior.
Lightweight: Aluminum is a lightweight metal, which means that it will not sag. You can
comfortably install aluminum to your roof or fascia without worrying about extra reinforcements
to prevent sagging.
Low maintenance: Aluminum does not require extensive maintenance, unlike gutter materials such as wood.
Cons Of Aluminum Gutters
While aluminum gutters have many positive features, there are some drawbacks you should be sure to consider before purchasing them for your home.
Durability: While aluminum’s lightweight nature prevents sagging, it also makes aluminum gutters more susceptible to damage. Because of this feature, aluminum might require repair or
replacement sooner than more durable materials such as copper or stainless steel.
Expensive color coordination: While it is possible to match your aluminum gutters to your siding, expect to pay significantly extra for this feature.
Unlike wood which can be easily sealed or painted into any color, it is more difficult to paint aluminum and there are more limited colors available.
Vinyl Vs Aluminum Gutters
Many homeowners debate between installing aluminum of vinyl gutters. Cost is obviously a big consideration, since vinyl gutters are cheaper than aluminum.
Vinyl is the least expensive gutter option, costing $3 per linear foot including installation. Seamless vinyl is more expensive than seamed vinyl, starting at $4 per linear foot.
Vinyl gutters are easy to cut and drill, making them easy to install DIY, thus allowing for further savings on the cost of professional installation.
Although vinyl gutters are cheaper than aluminum, most professional gutter installers WILL NOT recommend them for a home. This is because vinyl gutters are more prone to cracking and other damage compared to aluminum gutters, thus significantly reducing its lifespan.
Another reason why vinyl gutters have a short lifespan is because they are susceptible to extreme temperature fluctuations, which is not an issue with aluminum gutters.
In very cold temperatures vinyl gutters start to crack and become brittle, where as in high heat, they become warped and may sag.
So if your house is located in a state where seasons change between hot and cold weather, vinyl gutters are not an ideal option.
Another issue common to vinyl gutters is the fact that it cannot support heavy loads for a prolonged period of time, which makes them a poor choice for areas that experience frequent bouts of very heavy rainfall.
This issue will become even worse if you have a standard gutter system with seams. In heavy rain, the vinyl gutter may simply start to come apart at the seams, causing major leaks and damage.
Steel vs Aluminum Gutters
Steel gutters are available in several different steel types. Stainless steel is the most
expensive gutter option, costing $15 per linear foot. Galvanized steel is significantly cheaper, costing $5 per linear foot.
Steel gutters are not a popular choice because of their high cost and heavy weight, making them susceptible to sagging. Steel gutters are not widely available, and can only be found from specific manufacturers, contractors, or suppliers.
While steel gutters may have issues with sagging, they are an incredibly durable gutter material, and you will not need to worry about cracking, warping, rusting, or other issues.
Specifically, if you are worried about corrosion, steel gutters a great choice. Galvanized steel gutters remain corrosion resistant for as long as 20-25 years, and stainless steel gutters are COMPLETELY corrosion resistant.
Aluminum vs Copper Gutters
Copper gutters a very high quality premium gutter system, and can last up to a hundred years if well
maintained.
Copper does not require painting and also does not rust. Copper gutters can be made to be seamed or seamless.
Copper is one of the most expensive options, costing $25 to $40 per linear foot.
In addition to its practical benefits, many homeowners choose a copper gutter because of
its aesthetic charm. Copper develops a patina throughout its lifetime, which many consider to
add to the metal’s rustic charm.
Aluminum vs Wood Gutters
Wood gutters are largely out of fashion, but can still be found on some old homes. They
are expensive, costing between $20 and $30 per linear foot including installation.
Wood is an unfavorable gutter choice because it is very susceptible to rot and other damage from
moisture.
Wood gutters also require extensive maintenance such as staining or painting to
maintain its appearance and function.
Cost Of Repairing Aluminum Gutters
When looking to replace your gutters, you should consider whether they require repairs or full replacement.
Depending on the overall state of your gutters and the specific issues with them, you may be able to replace sections or parts without needing a full replacement.
The table below outlines the average costs and time required to fix common issues that occur with gutters.
| Issue | Time to Fix | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Rotting gutter | 5 hours | $1,100 |
| Hole in gutter | 4 hours | $750 |
| Issue with slope and drainage | 3.5 hours | $650 |
| Sagging gutter | 3 hours | $650 |
| Gutter has broken loose | 3 hours | $650 |
| Downspout or gutter is clogged, disconnected, or broken | 3 hours | $600 |
| Dented gutter | 3 hours | $600 |
| Gutter leaking from seams | 3 hours | $550 |
| Need a downspout removed or added | 3 hours | $550 |
Can I Install Aluminum Gutters DIY?
For seasoned home-improvement DIY-ers, replacing your gutters may be a suitable DIY project. You will need some specialized tools as well as a sturdy ladder and safety equipment.
If you do not have any experience with home improvement DIY projects, installing gutters is not the place to start as it can be dangerous and mistakes can cause damage to your home.
There is a high likelihood of injury, as replacing a gutter will involve difficult work raised
above the ground.
Additionally, a poorly installed gutter can reduce curb value if it is not aesthetically appealing.
Furthermore, you may not be eligible under product warranties if you are installing DIY. Hiring a professional ensures that you will be covered under the manufacturer warranty for your gutters.
What Is The ROI Aluminum Gutters?
A new aluminum gutter can add value to your home. New gutters have an average return
on investment of 85%, meaning you receive back 85% of the cost of installing new gutters when you sell your home.
This makes gutter replacement one of the most lucrative remodeling projects to consider.
How Can I Reduce Costs When Buying Aluminum Gutters?
Buying new aluminum gutters can be a costly investment. However, don’t let the price of new gutters dissuade you from replacing it: putting off replacing old gutters can lead to extensive damage to the rest of your home.
There are some ways of reducing the cost of new aluminum gutters.
One major way to save on costs is to replace your gutters during the off-season. Spring and summer will be the most expensive times to replace your gutters, as many homeowners will also be doing home improvement projects during that season and contractors are very busy.
In late fall and early winter, however, you are likely to come across significant reductions in price
as contractors offer appealing deals to increase business during the off-season.
Another way to reduce costs is to consider repairing rather than replacing your gutters.
Depending on the issue, you may be able to do a small-scale repair that will increase the life-span of your gutter system without a full replacement.
That being said, if your gutter is old and in need of repairs in multiple places, repairing the gutter will be ineffective price-wise as you will just keep doling out money for repairs when you in fact need a replacement.
Speak with a trustworthy contractor to learn whether your gutter requires repairs or replacement.
Where Can I Buy Aluminum Gutters?
Your contractor will likely be able to purchase aluminum gutters for you. This will likely be more affordable than purchasing the materials on your own, as contractors get special deals from suppliers at heavily reduced prices.
Another option is to attempt to purchase aluminum gutters from the suppliers. If you take this route, try to bargain down the price to at least 20% of what is listed.
Alternatively, you can purchase aluminum gutters at home improvement stores such as Home Depot. This is a good option for those replacing their aluminum gutters DIY.
What Colors Do Aluminum Gutters Come In?
Aluminum gutters are offered in a range of colors. However, unlike wood that can be easily painted or stained almost any color, aluminum is offered in a more minimal range.
You will easily be able to find aluminum gutters in shades of white, off-white, tan, and grey. For more uncommon colors, or to match your gutters to the exact shade of your siding, expect to pay higher prices.
Choosing the right color for your gutters can make a big difference in the appearance of your home’s exterior.
Many homeowners choose to match their gutters with their trim, which turns a utilitarian item into an aesthetic feature. Others blend it into the siding with matching shades, and others select a simple white.
How Long Do Aluminum Gutters Last?
When cared for properly, aluminum gutters can last between twenty and thirty years. This puts aluminum in the mid-range of gutter lifespans. Copper gutters can last up to one hundred years, whereas vinyl gutters have a much shorter lifespan of ten to twenty years.
It is important to care for your gutters properly to ensure a long lifespan. Removing any blockages will go a long way in maintaining the lifespan of your gutters.
When Should I Replace My Gutters?
While you may be tempted to put off replacing your gutters for as long as possible, it is important to replace them when necessary to prevent any further damage to your roof or your siding.
There may be some issues with your gutters that are repairable and do not require full replacement.
Repairs are a good idea if your aluminum gutters are fairly new and the issues do not seem widespread.
Older gutters with extensive problems should be replaced, though, as repairing them will just prolong the inevitable.
Inspecting your gutters regularly will help inform you weather your gutters require repairs or replacement. There are several signs to look out for that may indicate there are issues with the gutter that need fixing.
First, keep an eye out on the ground below the gutters. If you see any holes or pits, that may be a sign that the gutters are leaking and dripping into the ground, causing holes.
Small drips can be fixed but if the problem is widespread you should consider replacing your gutters.
Water stains or damage on your siding is another indication that your gutters may have leaks. Be sure to identify the cause of the damage, though, as it may be caused by a different issue.
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If there is standing water in your gutters, that means the water is not draining properly. This may be due to blockage, which is easily fixable, or a larger issue such that may require replacement.
Rusted gutters is a common predicament for non-aluminum gutters. Luckily, aluminum does not rust, so you do not need to worry about damage from rusted gutters if you choose aluminum.
Any splits in your gutters are a sign of damage. Furthermore, if you notice your gutters are detached from your house in some places, that is a sure sign of damage that should be fixed urgently.
Are Aluminum Gutters Worth It?
Gutters are a critical component of a leak free roof, so investing in high-quality new gutters always has a high return on investment and boosts the overall value of your home.
You can expect at least 80% ROI when you install high-quality seamless gutters made of aluminum.
Even if you are on a tight budget its worth it to invest into a durable and lasting gutters system made of aluminum, as opposed to other cheaper options, such as vinyl, because you will enjoy years of service without having to worry about gutter repairs.
