The world of gutters isn't as simple as it appears. Gutter choices and styles seem to be in almost infinite supply, which can make determining the cost of gutter replacement a tough question to answer.
Knowing how much a new gutter system will cost you is mostly about knowing what type of gutter you'd like to have and how much the labor will set you back. Once you have those two factors determined, coming up with a reasonable estimate isn't too difficult.
Four primary gutter types are vinyl, aluminum, steel, and copper.
Probably the most popular type of gutter because of its low cost, vinyl gutters are prevalent and readily available to most contractors and home improvement stores. This lightweight system runs between $4 and $8 per foot. The tradeoff is that vinyl gutters don't last as long as more durable materials.
Lightweight like vinyl, aluminum gutters are more durable, and costs around the same as vinyl gutters. Although they are easily dented, they can be painted whatever color you need them to be to blend right into the exterior look of your home.
Steel gutters are more expensive than aluminum or vinyl, coming in at somewhere between $9 and $20 per foot. You're paying more for durability though. Steel, whether it be galvanized or stainless is very durable, so either will last a long time. Galvanized is slightly cheaper than stainless, but they're both great options.
The creme of the crop of gutters, are copper built systems. Copper is durable and lasts a lifetime. Copper doesn't rust, and withstands weather flawlessly. But for this durability and appeal you'll be paying $15 to $30 per foot.
You can either choose from sectional or seamless gutters.
Sectional gutters have obvious seams where two sections meet. These seems can become prone to leaks or damage. But sectional gutters are less expensive than seamless.
Seamless gutters only have connection points at corners and downspouts. So water is less likely to leak since there are no seams. Seamless gutters are more expensive than sectional gutters, but they are highly reliable.
Labor costs can vary widely in your area. Research local roofers first to narrow down the list. Then call your prospective candidates to get a ballpark idea of how much they'll charge. Whoever you pick, make sure they are licensed and insured.
Labor costs will depend on how many feet of gutter you're looking to have installed, what type of material the gutter is made from, and whether the gutter is sectional or seamless. You'll get a better idea of labor costs if you allow a roofing contractor to come out and provide an estimate.
Once you have your estimate, save that and an additional ⅓ of the cost for any unforeseen delays or complications – which always seems to happen no matter what the job. Obviously a gutter replacement on a 1,500 square foot single story home will be much less than on a two story 4,000 square foot home.