How much does it cost to replace rain gutters? The answer is: it depends on several factors. With that in mind, let’s take a good look at what contractors will consider when coming up with a quote.
Cost of Labor
Depending on where you live, labor rates can vary widely. Also, if your contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured, that will increase the cost. If you’re getting bids from multiple contractors, make sure that each contractor is equally qualified to do the work. Sometimes it’s better to pay a little more for an experienced team to ensure your gutters are properly installed and that all the work is done correctly.
Type of Gutter
If you have seamless gutters installed on your home, they usually cost more than traditional sectional gutters. As the name implies, sectional gutters consist of separate segments that are attached together and then attached to your roof. Seamless gutters, on the other hand, are customized to the structure of your home. They use one single piece of metal, cut to the exact size needed. As such, they fit your roof perfectly. The advantage of seamless gutters is that they save money on maintenance in the future, as they are far less prone to leaking and clogs. As such, seamless gutters are a very worthwhile investment.
Gutter Material
Gutters can be made out of a variety of different materials, and there are pros and cons to each one:
• Vinyl gutters are the cheapest gutters. They aren’t well-suited to cold weather because they can become brittle and break. They typically don’t last very long, so you may find you need to replace them after a short time.
• Galvanized steel gutters are a bit more expensive, but much stronger. Special care must be taken, however, to ensure that they are free of corrosion.
• Aluminum gutters are the most popular option. They last a long time, are fairly durable, and are completely rust-proof. They aren’t heavy, which makes installing them faster and easier. They can be dented by hailstones, however, or other debris propelled by wind.
• Copper gutters are a premium option that last a very long time. They are expensive, but if they’re properly installed and maintained, they can last for over 50 years! They are usually spotted on historic buildings or luxury homes. They start with a glossy look, then over time they change to a warm green color.
While it may be tempting to go with the cheapest material to save a few bucks, remember that gutters are an investment. Saving a few bucks now may not mean very much if you end up having to spend a lot more down the road.
Gutter Depth
Most gutters are either four or six inches deep, which can handle light to moderate rainfall. If you live in an area that has very heavy amounts of rainfall, you may want to consider gutters that are seven or eight inches deep. While these will cost more, as they need to be custom-made, they may be a good idea in some very wet areas of the country.
Building Size and Height
This may not come as a surprise to you, but larger homes cost more to equip with gutters. This is because contractors charge by the foot. Larger homes also require more downspouts, which will increase the cost of materials.
Taller buildings are more difficult, as they require more workers, more safety equipment and cost more to insure. As such, expect to pay more if your home has multiple stories.
Extra Features
Gutter guards, downspout extensions, rain barrels, rain chains and other extras will cost more. Whether or not they are worth the extra cost really comes down to you and your situation. For example, if you live in a very dry climate where water is scarce, a rain barrel might be something very useful to you, as it can collect rain water for personal use. In an area where it rains frequently, gutter guards may be more useful to help keep debris out of the gutter system. Before committing to any extras, think carefully about your situation and which accessories would be useful to you.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! When speaking to a contractor, make sure to go over each of the items in this article with them, and make sure they explain each item well so you can make an informed opinion. If you are not comfortable with how they explain things to you, consider talking to someone else. Your home is your single greatest investment, and gutters are there to protect that investment. Therefore, it pays to make an informed decision that you’re happy with, both in the moment and in the years and decades that follow.
Contact Rain Gutter Pros for a Detailed Free Estimate Today!