On average, gutter installation costs $32 per linear foot based on data we analyzed from RSMeans, a construction cost database. While this may seem steep, gutters are a good investment to protect your home’s foundation from water damage. “Gutter installation is valuable for protecting your home, particularly if you have a basement in a humid area,” says Thomas Ballestero, Ph.D., the director of UNH Stormwater Center.
“While homes can function without gutters if properly designed, gutters are a cost-effective form of preventive maintenance—essentially serving as one of the cheapest insurance policies for your home,” says Ballestero. “Prevention through proper gutter installation is always less expensive than reacting to water damage after the fact.”
Our research shows that gutter length and material type are the biggest factors affecting the cost of gutter installation. A few common material types are vinyl, aluminum, and steel, which tend to be more affordable than premium materials, such as copper and zinc. These premium gutters can cost upwards of $62 per linear foot on average but are long-lasting and add an aesthetic element.
In this guide, we’ll detail the factors that affect gutter installation prices and the necessary considerations for planning a professional or do-it-yourself (DIY) install.
Cost information in this article, where noted, was calculated using RSMeans data from Gordian™. RSMeans is a construction cost database used by thousands of contractors to generate their project pricing.
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How Much Should It Cost to Install Gutters for Your Home?
The amount you pay for new gutter installation for your home depends on the square footage of your home. Generally, a larger home with an expansive roofline will require more gutter material, which increases the total project cost. If you divide the square footage of your home by 10, you will receive the estimated linear feet of material that you will need for new gutters. A typical 2,000-square-foot home will need 200 linear feet of material based on this calculation.
Keep in mind that the material and gutter brand you choose also influences costs. The table below provides a general cost range by home size.
| Home Size (sq feet) | Linear Feet of Gutters | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 | 100 | $1,300–$6,200 |
| 1,200 | 120 | $1,560–$7,440 |
| 1,500 | 150 | $1,950–$9,300 |
| 2,000 | 200 | $2,600–$12,400 |
| 2,500 | 250 | $2,925–$15,500 |
How To Estimate Gutter Installation Cost
While we recommend contacting a professional gutter company for a more accurate installation quote, you could get a ballpark estimate yourself by taking measurements of your roof. Follow these steps to see how much you’ll roughly pay for new gutters:
- Measure the area for which you need gutters. Make sure to get the length and width of every portion of the roof you want gutters on.
- Multiply the measurement in square feet by the cost per linear foot of the gutter material you want to install. If you haven’t settled on a material yet, the average price for gutter installation is $32 per linear foot.
We also suggest consulting a professional if you’re not sure how to measure your roof properly or lack the necessary tools.
Gutter Installation Cost by Material Type
The material type you buy for your gutter replacement is another big factor that affects gutter installation cost. Each gutter material varies in price per linear foot. In addition, some materials—such as galvanized steel—take longer to install, which impacts labor rates.
The following table breaks down the cost of new gutter installations by material based on linear foot and the total installation cost for a typical 200-linear-foot system.
| Gutter Material | Cost per Linear Foot | Cost for 200 Linear Feet |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | $12–$34 | $2,400–$6,800 |
| Aluminum | $13–$35 | $2,600–$7,000 |
| Steel | $17–$37 | $3,400–$7,400 |
| Copper | $30–$52 | $6,000–$10,400 |
| Zinc | $36–$62 | $7,200–$12,400 |
Which Type of Gutters Are Recommended?
Our research shows that aluminum seamless gutters are a safe choice for a reliable, long-lasting rain gutter system at a mid-range price. Several of our top-rated gutter installation companies—LeafFilter and Leafguard—use aluminum as their material for gutters.
If you live in an area with extreme weather or high winds, consider a heavier gutter system, such as stainless or galvanized steel. Copper gutters may also be worth the investment and add to your resale value if you live in a historic home. While vinyl and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) gutters are attractively priced compared to aluminum and stainless steel, they aren’t as durable and are more likely to break in harsh weather conditions.
Whatever kind of gutter system you choose, we recommend researching local installation companies and requesting free quotes. Consider getting quotes from gutter guard companies to add long-term protection for your gutters. Gutter guards help prevent debris from clogging your gutters, which can reduce the number of times you clean your gutters and the likelihood of expensive water damage.
Below, we highlight the common gutter material types you can buy for your home.
- Vinyl and PVC: While PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and vinyl are different materials, they are used interchangeably in gutter installations. PVC and vinyl are also the most fragile gutter materials available and may crack, break, or warp in severe temperature changes. In moderate climate conditions, you can expect PVC or plastic gutters to last 10–20 years.
- Aluminum: Aluminum gutters are lightweight, rust-resistant, and easy to install. Under ordinary conditions, they typically last 20 years or more. “Material choice is crucial, with aluminum being the current industry standard due to its durability, corrosion resistance, and recyclability,” says Karl Seelbach, carpentry department head at Laney College. “While copper and stainless steel offer elegance and longevity, they come at a premium price point.” The downside to these gutters is their tendency to dent from impacts, such as hail or falling tree limbs.
- Galvanized Steel: Galvanized steel gutters have a zinc coating that helps improve their resistance to rust and corrosion. Compared to aluminum, galvanized steel is less likely to dent, but it’s also heavier and more difficult to install. Galvanized steel gutters generally last 20 years or more.
- Copper: Copper gutters have an old-world, regal look and a long life span. However, they tend to be pricier than the previous three materials mentioned above. With regular cleaning and maintenance, copper gutters last more than 50 years.
- Zinc: Zinc is a low-maintenance but expensive, high-end material that doesn’t rust. It forms a self-healing patina that obscures scratches and scrapes. These gutters can last 80 years or more.
Other Gutter Installation Cost Factors
In addition to the material and number of linear feet you buy, other factors affect the cost of your gutter replacement, such as gutter style, gutter size, and even your home’s landscaping and number of stories. We break down each of these cost factors below.
Gutter Type
The type of gutter impacts both material and labor costs. Less common gutter types are more expensive and typically require specially trained installers. For example, seamless gutters require special machinery to form and install on your home. Below, we give a brief overview of the most common gutter types.
K-style
K-style gutters are the standard option for most modern homes. These gutters are easy to install and can withstand heavy rainfall. K-style gutters look similar to crown molding and match many architectural styles. Their steep trough and simple design make them reliable and cheaper to install.
Half-round
As their name suggests, these gutters appear similar to a barrel cut in half, which gives them their “half-round” shape. Half-round gutters are an elegant and popular choice for historic or upscale homes. They’re more difficult to install and hold less water than comparably sized K-style gutters, so we don’t recommend them if you live in areas that experience heavy rainfall.
Box Gutters
Box gutters are an older style of gutter used more frequently in the 1800s and 1900s. Today, builders install box gutters more commonly in industrial buildings and occasionally in residential homes. They have a wide and deep design that can handle heavy water flow but lack the decorative look of other contemporary styles.
Sectional Gutters
Sectional gutters are the standard option for most homes. They come in pre-cut lengths that attach using connectors (also called joiners). The gutter installer must seal seams between sections with waterproof caulk. Over time, sun, weather exposure, and debris can deteriorate the caulk and cause leaks. We suggest a more robust design if you live in areas with extreme weather and debris buildup.
Seamless Gutters
Seamless gutters are made from single pieces of guttering attached at the corners. Installers measure and custom-fit each piece of the gutter system to your home’s roofline, using a rolling machine to cut the gutters on-site. Seamless gutters last much longer, are more durable, and look better than traditional sectional gutters. While they cost more, they are less prone to leaking. Seamless gutters cost between $1,400 and $7,500 or more, according to Fixr.
Gutter Size
Gutter size typically refers to a system’s width, measured from the back (facia-facing) side to the front of the gutters. The wider the gutter, the more you’ll pay in material costs. The most common gutter width is 5 inches, but homes in rainy regions, such as the Pacific Northwest, may require a 6-inch or 7-inch system.
Additional Cost Factors
While your gutter system’s style, size, and material determine the baseline price range for its installation, other factors play a role in total installation cost, including the following:
- Additional parts: Your installation estimate will include the cost of materials for components such as brackets, downspouts, elbows, gutter end caps, hangers, and splash blocks.
- Height of your home: The height of your home can directly impact your labor costs. Two-story homes are more difficult and dangerous to work on and may require specialized tools.
- Landscaping: If your landscaping, such as trees and bushes, makes installing gutters on your home difficult, expect to pay increased labor rates.
- Local labor rates: The availability of services, local taxes, and regional income levels impact general labor rates, which in turn affect the price of your professional gutter installation.
- Service fees: Installers charge service fees if they transport materials, repair roof sections, dispose of materials, or undertake additional work.
DIY vs. Professional Gutter Installation
Homeowners can choose between DIY and professional gutter installation. Each method has pros and cons, but the main differences are cost and quality.
The DIY route always costs less because it bypasses labor rates and other fees charged by gutter companies. However, gutter companies have the advantage of accessing materials and using techniques unavailable to even highly proficient homeowners.
For example, homeowners can’t install seamless gutters themselves because they require a rolling machine and special training to create them. Many gutter materials, such as copper, zinc, and steel, are also challenging to install alone because their weight makes them unwieldy and dangerous for one person to handle.
“DIY gutter installation is possible, especially with sectional gutters, and can save on labor costs. However, hiring a professional is often worth the investment for a precise fit, particularly with seamless gutters,” says Amna Salman, Ph.D., assistant professor at the McWhorter School of Building Science. “Professionals bring expertise in correct gutter pitch, alignment, and secure attachment, and they also have the right equipment for safe roof access.” She added that professional installation will ensure durable performance and minimal maintenance.
Other benefits of choosing a professional gutter company include access to additional services, such as gutter repair, downspout installation, or debris disposal. They may also provide a workmanship warranty for their labor, which you won’t get if you attempt the installation yourself.
Quick Tip
- We advise checking a contractor’s licensing status using your state’s license lookup. Each state has one, typically run by the Department of Labor or State License Board. For example, North Carolina has a licensing board for general contractors. Don’t choose an installer before reviewing multiple quotes. By requesting free quotes, you can compare each company’s services, prices, and customer service to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
Signs That You Need New Gutters
Before scheduling a gutter replacement, consider whether your system is at the end of its life or just requires a quick gutter repair. “Key signs that it’s time to replace your gutters include visible cracks, rust spots, sagging or pulling away from the home, and frequent clogs,” says Salman. “Water pooling around your home’s foundation, leaking at the seams, or mildew growth can also signal gutter wear.”
The following signs indicate it may be time to replace your gutters:
- Broken or disconnected downspouts
- Foundation cracks, chips, or shifting
- Multiple cracks, gaps, or breaks in gutter sections
- Rust or chipped paint on gutters
- Sagging of one or more sections
- Water damage to siding, fascia, soffits, or other roof sections
If your existing gutters sustained damage from a hailstorm or have loose hangers, you’ll likely be able to repair them rather than invest in a new system. However, if your old gutters are nearing the end of their life, small repairs or patch jobs will be temporary fixes at best.
Ballestero added that proper gutter maintenance can prevent many issues that signal gutter replacement. He recommends cleaning gutters twice a year, especially if you live in areas with heavy tree debris buildup.
Here are some signs that indicate that your gutters need cleaning or a repair rather than a full replacement:
- Disconnected gutter sections
- Frequent crawl space or basement flooding
- Mold, moss, or mildew growth
- Standing water and saturated soil on your property
- Streaks along siding
How To Extend the Life of Your Gutters
Like most home systems, the best way to extend the life of your gutters is with routine maintenance. Clean gutters function better than clogged gutters, allowing them to filter debris and water more efficiently. Our research and the experts we’ve spoken to recommend cleaning your gutters at least twice per year, such as at the end of fall and spring. You’ll remove the most debris at once during these times of year.
“Several maintenance steps can help extend the lifespan of gutters,” says Mohsen Goodarzi, Ph.D., assistant professor of construction management at Ball State University. He suggests cleaning your gutters regularly, adding protective guards on top of the gutters to reduce clogging, and ensuring your gutter’s downspouts are facing away from your home’s foundation.
Regular inspections are also essential in keeping your gutter system functioning at peak performance. The experts we spoke with recommend inspecting your system once every one to three years to spot minor damage before it leads to more expensive problems. You can inspect and repair your gutters yourself or hire a professional.
Purchasing gutter guards with a full gutter system is common for homeowners who want to get the most out of their home drainage system. In January 2025, we surveyed 1,000 gutter guard customers nationwide. Our survey showed that 63% of respondents saved 4–8 hours or more per year on maintaining their gutters after installing gutter guards.
Are Gutter Guards Worth It?
Gutter guards can make future cleaning and maintenance of your gutter system easier. However, our research shows that gutter guard installation costs as much as new gutters or more. Our survey of customers of the top five professional gutter guard installers revealed an average cost of $3,232 for their gutter guard system. Additionally, the respondents reported buying an average of 239 linear feet of guards.
Like many home improvement add-ons, gutter guards can be worth the investment if you choose the right product for your needs. Some perform better than others, and not all brands suit every gutter design or climate. For example, reverse-curve guards can self-clean and block large leaves but can’t handle heavy rainfall. Brush gutter guards are inexpensive and easy to install but are ineffective against pine needles.
We tested more than a dozen DIY brands and one professional brand, LeafFilter, and found that stainless steel micro-mesh guards performed the best. Our 2025 survey also asked 1,000 homeowners about their satisfaction with their gutter guard systems. More than 69% of them reported that they were very satisfied with their overall performance.
If you’re interested in pairing your gutters with a gutter guard system, we suggest LeafFilter due to its debris resistance, robust filtering, and professional installation. Raptor Gutter Guard is our pick among DIY products if you prefer to install them yourself, as it uses a similar micro-mesh design to professionally installed brands.
LeafFilter
Now 25% off. Additional 10% off for veterans & seniors
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Uses a 275-micron stainless steel micro-mesh screen, which blocked more than 90% of debris during our testing
- Has the highest average customer review score of any national gutter guard brand we’ve reviewed
- Offers a lifetime transferable warranty
Cons
- Some customer reviews indicate aggressive sales tactics
- Doesn’t offer services such as gutter repair and cleaning outside of a system installation
Additional Services
LeafFilter is among the most reputable gutter guard companies in the country. Its stainless steel, surgical-grade, micro-mesh screen provides the most effective filtration of small debris on the market, based on our team’s testing. The company offers the following services and guarantees:
- Offers 0% financing for 24 months
- Three-piece gutter system composed of a screen, frame, and hangers
- Warranty coverage (repair, replace, or refund the system cost if it clogs)
- Easy cleaning as needed with a ladder, garden hose, or brush
- Discounts for seniors and military
Expert Insights About Gutter Installation Cost
Is Residential Gutter Installation Worth It?
Are There Signs That Your Gutters Need Replacement?
How Can You Extend the Life of Your Gutters?
FAQs About Gutter Installation Cost
Do gutter alternatives work?
Gutter alternatives don’t work as well as gutters in most situations. For example, rain chains and drip paths overflow in moderate rainfall. However, if your home’s landscaping has gradation that slopes away from your foundation, alternatives may be enough to protect your foundation.
How often should you replace your gutters?
Gutters have different lifespans depending on the material. Plastic gutters last 10–20 years, aluminum and steel last up to 20 years, and copper last 50 years or more.
What is the most common problem with gutters?
The most common problem with gutters is their constant debris buildup and clogging issues. As plant debris gets pushed by the wind, it lands inside your gutters and causes clogs and overflow. This spillage can eventually lead to water damage, soil erosion, and foundation shifting.
Can a lack of gutters cause foundation problems?
Yes, not having gutters can cause foundation problems. Without gutters, water is free to flow from your roofline right onto your foundation. This hydrostatic pressure will lead to foundation cracks, shifting, and other expensive problems. However, gutter systems may not be required if you live in an area with little to no rainfall.
Do gutters increase property value?
Gutters do not typically increase the value of your property. However, having a gutter system that works as designed will direct excess water away from your home’s roof and foundation, which can help avoid expensive repairs. Certain gutter systems, such as half-round copper gutters, can increase the curb appeal of your home, which may add value to your home when you sell it.
Our Rating Methodology
The This Old House Team backs up our gutter guard recommendations with a detailed rating methodology to objectively score each gutter guard product and provider. We conduct research by reviewing product specifications and provider website information, speaking with customer representatives, and analyzing customer reviews. We reinforce this research with thorough firsthand product testing, assessing each gutter guard’s durability, quality, filtration, and cleanability. To date, we’ve tested more than a dozen professionally installed and DIY gutter guard products. We then score each provider against our review standards for gutter guard design, customer support, the quote process, services, and reviews to arrive at a final score on a 5-point rating scale.
