How Much Do Seamless Gutters Cost?

This comprehensive guide will be going over everything you need to know about seamless gutters. By the end, you'll know about the costs, options, and even the pros and cons of these gutters. You will also learn about why it's so important to have an efficient and effective rainwater drainage system to protect your home.

1. Cost

The cost of these gutter installs is likely to be one of your first concerns. When it comes to seamless gutters, around 80 percent of them are made out of aluminum. Gutters made out of painted aluminum will typically cost anywhere from $10 to $15.50 per linear foot for installation. This will vary based on the specifics of your installation including how tall your home is, how accessible it is, and even your home's location. All of these things can impact the cost you're likely to pay for the installation. 

You will find that an average installation between 170 feet and 225 feet of seamless aluminum gutters will typically cost anywhere from 2 to 3.5 grand.

This quoted cost includes everything from the gutters themselves, to the downspouts, hanging brackets, and more. Also, it includes the entirety of the installation along with the warranty that comes with it.

Keep in mind: Any 2-story properties are usually going to have a $1 per foot surcharge because of accessibility concerns compared to 1-story properties.

Largely thanks to them being so lightweight and flexible, they make for great options for most homeowners. They also offer excellent longevity due to their optimal durability. They are even resistant to corrosion which makes them viable long-term options. This makes them the most popular option for most residential homeowners.

If you were to opt for galvanized or coated steel, you will find it costs only $10 per linear foot. However, these don't deliver the same durability.

When it comes to copper gutters, they can be very costly. These gutters can cost upwards of $24 per linear foot after installation. However, there is no denying they are aesthetically pleasing and offer the highest durability rating available. 

What Exactly Are Seamless Gutters?

Seamless gutters are gutters that have been customized to fit optimally. They are made to fit your home precisely once the crew arrives at your residence. These gutters are made out of coiled metal and a gutter machine.

There are three different types of materials available for these gutters. These include galvanized steel, aluminum, and copper. Every gutter is made to the exact specifications that are needed.

There are only seams at the corners of the gutters. They are seamlessly screwed together and sealed with silicone whenever steel or aluminum is used. For the copper gutters, the seams are fully soldered or riveted. There are end caps that get attached and downspouts connected to the gutters for installation.

If you get aluminum gutters, they could have a baked-on power-coast finish to them or you could get coated gutters. The ones made out of galvanized steel usually have a coat made out of vinyl.

There are plenty of different colors available to choose from whenever you are opting for steel or aluminum gutters. With copper, you'll find it typically develops a patina over time if it's not polished.

2. What Determines The Cost?

- Removal Of Existing Gutters

If you are going to be removing existing gutters from your property, it will cost anywhere from $0.50 to $1.50 per linear ft. 

- Size

The size of the gutters is another determining factor. These gutters can be made in different widths. These widths include 3 inches up to 7 inches. However, the majority of the gutters in the marketplace are made to be 5 inches. The larger you opt for, the more you can expect to pay. The size you get should be based on how large your roof is and whether or not you're situated in a climate with heavy rainfall.

- Material

The material you end up using is another major factor in determining the total cost of the installation. Around 80 percent of seamless gutters installed are made out of aluminum. Steel can be a budget option. Whereas copper is much more costly, it does come with advantages making it worth the premium for upscale homes.

- Accessibility

If you are going to be installing the gutters above the first level, you will have to pay more. These installations are more complex. Therefore, they will typically require you to pay a surcharge of $1 to $2 more per linear ft.

- Corners

The most time-consuming aspect of installing a gutter is the corners. Because of this, you are going to have to pay more if you have a lot of corners. Any home that has over 6 corners will need to pay a premium.

- Colors

There are deep and rich colors that will cost a lot more than lighter colors from a lot of gutter companies.

- Location

Where you live will dictate how much you pay. The cities that are near the coast will usually have a higher cost of living. Because of this, you can expect to pay more if you live in an area with a higher cost of living. Those living in rural areas will have to pay significantly less mainly because the cost of living is lower.

- Rascia Repair

Any fascia that has rotted will need to be replaced before the new gutter installation. 

- Extras

The costs mentioned above do not include any extras you will have to pay. These extras can include but aren't limited to getting splash blocks, extenders, or even rain barrels installed.

Some Pros and Cons:

There is a lot to like about seamless gutters. 

Pros:

- Less Prone To Leaks

One of the best things to like about seamless gutters is the fact they are less prone to leaks. You will find they are much less prone than a sectional gutter. While leaks can still become an issue near the downspout area, they aren't going to be nearly as common with seamless gutters.

- Perfect Fit

When you hire a professional seamless gutter installer, you're going to get a perfect fit. They are accurately measured to ensure you have a perfect install.

- Many Colors

You get to choose from many different colors. This can be a good option for those looking to make their home more aesthetically pleasing. It can help enhance your home's curb appeal for sure.

- Can Be Painted

You can always paint any powder-coated gutters.

- Longer Lasting

You will find that aluminum, steel, and copper are all long-lasting options when you compare them to their sectional counterparts. This means you can expect them to last much longer giving you a better return on your investment.

Cons: 

- Cost

You are going to have to pay more for seamless gutters. There is no getting around this. The cost of the material is higher and so is the installation. 

- No DIY

You cannot do it yourself. For those looking to do the installation themselves, seamless gutters are not for you. They require coils of material and an extruding gutter machine.

- Needs Replacing

If any part of the gutter gets damaged, the entire gutter will need to be replaced. This can be costly.

Material Debate:

1. Aluminum

There is a big reason why a lot of seamless gutter installations go with aluminum. After all, they offer perhaps the most advantages. Not only does aluminum resist corrosion, but it is also lightweight, durable, and available in many colors. Also, it can be easily altered with paint.

Any aluminum gutter should last upwards of 20 years or more. This is even true in harsh climates with a lot of snow and rain. In places without harsh climates, they can last upwards of 30 years making them a good long-term investment. While aluminum is aesthetically pleasing and can be painted, it won't deliver the "wow-factor" that copper does.

2. Steel

There are two things that steel offer that you don't get from the other options. For one, it's more affordable. This is a big benefit for those on a budget. Also, it happens to be more resistant to dents than aluminum.

However, there are downsides to steel. For one, it's much heavier. Because of this, you have a greater risk of them getting pulled off the home. This is especially true if you live in a climate with a lot of ice.

When the coating is scratched, it will typically develop rust quickly. Any steel that is coated should deliver anywhere from 12 to 20 years of operation.

3. Copper

Copper is the most expensive. However, it's also the most aesthetically pleasing and it makes for an excellent addition to a home with brick siding.

Another major benefit of copper is that it can last upwards of 50 to 100 years. Therefore, you can anticipate it being a lifetime upgrade compared to some of the other options. The major negative is the upfront cost associated with it. 

Also, you will need to spend time and money maintaining it yearly. It's important to keep in mind this upkeep is required to keep it looking good. 

If it's not cleaned and polished regularly, you will find it developing a patina. Some homeowners enjoy the look of this and some might not.