Copper Gutters (2024 Guide)
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Copper gutters can increase your home’s curb appeal and resale value, but they require more upkeep and they may cost over twice as much as other gutter materials. Copper gutters are popular for historic and high-end homes due to their beautiful aesthetic appeal and old-world look. These gutters are durable, lasting up to 50 years.
Below, we’ll cover everything you need to know about copper gutters, from installation and style to cost factors.
Who Are Copper Gutters Right For?
Many homeowners choose copper for their gutters due to its aesthetics and high resale value. There are other reasons to choose copper gutters for your home such as:
- You have a historic home and want gutters with an antique look.
- You want your gutters to be a selling point when you list your home.
- You do not want to replace your gutter system again.
- You appreciate the elegant green patina of aged copper.
- You want to avoid using standard vinyl gutters.
How Much Do Copper Gutters Cost?
Copper gutters can cost $20–$40 per linear foot* placed, totaling between $4,000 and $8,000 or more for a standard installation. Steel, aluminum, and vinyl gutters often cost $10 or less per linear foot. These prices are estimates based on national averages, and your gutter installation price will vary based on numerous factors. The final cost of any gutter installation project can be affected by your location, your chosen company, additional services, and labor rates.
Your gutter installation cost will increase if you choose to install gutter guards. Downspouts, rain chains, and other accessories also factor into the final cost. Although you can save money by installing copper gutters yourself, we don’t recommend it. Copper gutters are a specialty product that require the right tools and expertise to install properly.
*Cost ranges listed are based on data from Angi and HomeAdvisor.
| Gutter Material | Life Span | Cost Per 200 Linear Feet | Total Installation Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | 10–20 years | $400–$500 | $1,725–$1,850 |
| Aluminum | 20 years or more | $600–$760 | $2,000–$2,430 |
| Steel | 20 years or more | $840–$970 | $2,800–$3,200 |
| Copper | 50 years or more | $2,000–$3,000 | $6,250–$9,500 |
Note: Material costs in the table are sourced from Gutter Supply and the Home Depot. Labor costs are sourced from HomeAdvisor.
How Do Copper Gutters Compare To Other Materials?
Copper gutters are a high-end material, outweighing most other gutter materials in price and longevity. It lasts up to 50 years, withstands weathering and corrosion, and is highly aesthetically pleasing. Keep in mind that copper develops a patina over time. This chemical process slowly turns the material into a silver-green color. Most homeowners find this look appealing, but others prefer its original look.
Pros and Cons of Copper Gutters
What Gutter Styles Can I Have With Copper?
Like other types of gutters, copper gutters come in multiple shapes, styles, and sizes. The two most popular options are 5-inch K-style gutters and 6-inch half-round gutters.
Half-round copper gutters come in single-bead and double-bead varieties. A few companies offer copper box gutters and other shapes. Although copper gutters can range from 4 to 8 inches wide, the 5- or 6-inch size is large enough for most homes.
Copper downspouts can be either rounded or rectangular. Some homeowners incorporate matching rain chains into their copper gutter system instead of relying on traditional downspouts. Copper end caps, outlets, elbows, miters, wire strainers, offsets, leaf guards, and hangers are also available to complete your system.
While both sectional and seamless copper gutters are available, seamless gutters are the better option. Fewer seams mean a lesser chance of sagging and leaking.
Are You Able to Install Gutter Guards on Copper Gutters?
Yes, you can install gutter guards onto copper gutters. A professional should install gutter guards onto copper gutters under most circumstances. Copper is a soft metal and can become damaged if improperly handled. Ideally, you’ll have the same company that installed the gutters apply the gutter guards. Professional gutter companies typically offer at least one gutter guard product. In fact, some of the best gutter guards are only available through professional installers. According to our survey of 1,000 customers of the top gutter guard providers, you can expect to pay around $4,300 for a professional gutter guard installation.
There are some do-it-yourself (DIY) gutter guard brands that you can install onto copper gutters. Foam and brush guards are easy to place and don’t typically require the alteration of gutters. The installation process for screen and micromesh DIY guards can require screwing hangers into your fascia or making other alterations that can damage copper gutters.
Is DIY Installation an Option With Copper Gutters?
Generally, it is impossible to DIY copper gutters. Copper gutter’s weight requires multiple trained personnel to install them correctly. Additionally, installing copper gutters requires specialized tools and training, which most homeowners don’t have access to.
Are Copper Gutters Worth It?
Copper gutters are worth it for homeowners who want the best possible material for their gutter system. Copper’s high price tag affords homeowners a gutter system that can last up to 50 years while maintaining its beauty. Within a few years, the shiny, new copper will fade to dark brown, then turn green. The green will lighten over time until it reaches the timeless color of antique, oxidized copper.
Copper gutters typically require professional installation. Professionally installed gutter guards will also add to the up-front price, but you will save money on maintenance in the long run. In fact, if you take good care of your new copper gutters, you can expect them to last the rest of your life.
FAQ About Copper Gutters
Do copper gutters last a long time?
Yes, copper gutters last a long time—up to 50 years or longer. If they are properly installed and maintained, they can last a lifetime. Some gutter companies estimate a life span of 80 to 100 years for copper gutters.
Are copper gutters worth it?
Yes, copper gutters are generally worth it. Although they cost significantly more than their vinyl or aluminum counterparts, they are durable and long-lasting. Many homeowners also prefer the look of copper gutters.
Do copper gutters cost more?
Yes, copper gutters are among the most expensive types of gutters available. In fact, they cost nearly three times more than aluminum or steel gutters.
What are the downsides of copper gutters?
Copper gutters have some downsides homeowners should consider before installing them. They are several times more expensive than other gutter materials. They also require more diligent upkeep to maintain their patina or prevent it from forming, depending on your aesthetic preferences.
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