How Much Do Gutters Cost? 8 Key Factors to Consider

If you’re planning to install new gutters, you’ve likely wondered: how much do new gutters cost? Gutters are a vital part of protecting your home from water damage, preventing foundation issues, and maintaining its structural integrity. Understanding the costs involved is essential to budgeting and ensuring you get the right system for your needs.

In the Chicagoland area, the cost of new gutters typically ranges from $11 to $20 per linear foot, depending on the type of system, materials, and complexity of the installation. This guide explores eight key factors that influence gutter costs to help you plan effectively.

New Gutter Cost Guide

1. Removal of Old Gutters

If you’re replacing existing gutters, the removal process can also impact costs. The type and condition of your old gutters play a role in determining labor time and complexity.

Aluminum Gutters: Lightweight and easy to remove, keeping costs low.
Steel or Copper Gutters: Heavier and often integrated into the roofing structure, requiring specialized tools and additional labor.
Box Gutters: These are built into the roof and require careful removal to avoid damage to surrounding materials.

Proper removal ensures your new gutters are installed on a clean, stable foundation. In some cases, a full gutter replacement is more cost-effective than repairing old, damaged gutters

Learn more about our installation process here.

2. Size and Design of Your Home

The size and architectural design of your home play a significant role in determining the cost of new gutters. Larger homes or those with intricate designs require more materials, customizations, and labor. The square footage of the home directly influences the amount of gutter material needed, thereby affecting the total cost.

Simple Homes: Square or rectangular homes are easier to install gutters on, resulting in lower costs.
Complex Rooflines: Homes with multiple roof planes, steep pitches, or unique designs require additional fittings and time, increasing labor costs.
Multi-Story Structures: Taller homes require extra safety precautions, such as scaffolding or harnesses, to ensure the installation is completed safely.

If your home has unique features, a professional assessment is critical to ensure you get an accurate cost for new gutters. Check out our guide to gutter installation and replacement for more insights.

3. Accessibility

Accessibility is another factor that can impact the cost of gutter installation. Homes with clear surroundings allow for quicker and easier installation, while obstructions can increase labor time and costs. The design and layout of the home’s exterior can also impact the ease of installation and overall costs.

Clear Access: Open spaces around your home make it easier for installers to set up ladders and complete the job efficiently.
Obstructions: Features like fences, landscaping, or powerlines can complicate access and require additional setup time.
Tight Spaces: Narrow areas or difficult angles add complexity, increasing the overall cost.

Accessibility is often overlooked, but it can significantly affect pricing, especially in urban areas like Chicago where space is limited.

4. Height of the Building

Building height and its structural design play a major role in the cost of new gutters. The taller the building, the more difficult it will be for our team to install the gutters. Factors such as wind and ladder stability come into play. It will take more time and more manpower to install the gutters; our installers need to climb roofs and implement extra safety measures to properly and safely complete the job. When extra precautions have to be put in place, they will be reflected in the price. Maintaining the home structure is crucial during gutter installation to ensure long-term stability and prevent damage.

5. Permit Fees

In many Chicagoland municipalities, permits are required for gutter installation projects and will increase the cost of new gutters. Permit fees vary based on location but are essential to ensure the work complies with local building codes and safety standards.

Permit Fees: Typically range from $50 to $300 depending on your city.
Why Permits Matter: They ensure your installation meets safety and structural standards, protecting both homeowners and contractors.
Simplified Process: Hire a company like Gutter Pros that handles permits on your behalf, saving you time and hassle.

Be sure to discuss permit requirements with your contractor during the initial gutter estimate process.

6. Gutter System Type

The type of gutter system you choose directly impacts both the cost and complexity of installation. Standard gutter systems are typically attached to a fascia board, providing a secure and straightforward installation. However, homes with angled fascia boards or those without fascia boards altogether require additional components and adjustments, which can increase the overall cost of new gutters.

Sectional gutters are a budget-friendly option but may require more maintenance compared to seamless gutters.

Here’s how gutter system types can influence gutter installation pricing:

Fascia Board Installation: The most common setup, where gutters are securely attached to a fascia board. This option is generally more affordable as it requires fewer components.
Angled Fascia Boards: If your fascia board is on an angle, installers need to add gutter wedges to ensure proper alignment. This adds time and material costs.
No Fascia Board: Homes without a fascia board require the use of gutter straps, which are secured directly to the roof. This setup is more labor-intensive and typically costs more.
5-Inch vs. 6-Inch Gutters: Larger 6-inch gutters can handle higher water volumes and are ideal for areas with heavy rainfall or snowmelt, but they come with a higher price tag compared to 5-inch gutters.

Each of these options has different cost implications, as some systems require more time, materials, and expertise to install. When budgeting for your project, consider your home’s specific requirements to determine how much your new gutters will cost. For more insights, visit our guide on seamless gutter installation.

7. Materials Used

The materials used for your gutter system play a significant role in determining not only the gutter cost but also the longevity and performance of your gutters. High-quality materials are especially critical in regions like Chicago, where extreme weather conditions, including freezing winters and heavy rainfall, can test the durability of your gutters. Vinyl gutters are a lightweight and cost-effective option but may not be as durable as other materials in extreme weather conditions.

Gutter Material Thickness: The thickness of the aluminum used in gutters matters. At Gutter Pros, we use .032-inch aluminum, which is thicker and more durable than the industry standard. This ensures your gutters can withstand harsh weather without warping or denting.
Premium Gutter Hangers: The type of hanger used is crucial for the stability of your gutter system. We use QuickScrew® hangers, which are designed for maximum strength and durability, securely attaching the gutters to the fascia board to prevent sagging over time.
Sealant Type: The sealant is a critical component in preventing leaks at joints and connections. Gutter Pros uses GeoCel® sealant, which is specifically engineered to expand and contract with changing temperatures. This prevents cracking and ensures long-term water resistance, even in freezing conditions.
Screw Quality: The screws used during installation might seem like a small detail, but they make a big difference in durability. We use longer, corrosion-resistant screws to ensure a secure and lasting fit, reducing the risk of gutters detaching over time.

Investing in high-quality materials might increase the upfront gutter cost, but it ensures your gutters remain functional and reliable for years to come.

8. Additional Features

Optional upgrades and add-ons can enhance your gutter system’s functionality and aesthetics. While these features add to the new gutter cost, they can provide significant benefits in terms of performance and convenience. Installing gutter guards can reduce maintenance needs and improve the efficiency of the gutter system.

Gutter Guards: Reduce debris buildup and minimize maintenance needs. Choose the best type of gutter guards for your home.
Custom Colors and Finishes: Match your home’s exterior for a polished, cohesive look.
Downspout Extensions: Direct water further away from your foundation to prevent flooding and erosion.

These features are worth considering if you want a low-maintenance, high-performance gutter system.

DIY vs Professional Gutter Installation

When it comes to gutter installation, homeowners have the option to choose between DIY and professional installation. While DIY gutter installation can save up to $75 per hour in labor costs, it may not be the best choice for everyone. Professional gutter installation companies have the equipment and experience needed to efficiently install gutters and downspouts, ensuring a safe and proper installation. Additionally, local gutter professionals can handle calculations for correct gutter slope and water flow capacity, which is critical for a functional gutter system. Seamless gutter systems, in particular, require professional installation to ensure a leak-free and durable system. DIY installations might seem cost-effective initially, but the potential for errors can lead to costly repairs down the line. Hiring professionals ensures that your gutters are installed correctly the first time, providing peace of mind and long-term savings.

Signs That You Need New Gutters

Homeowners often wonder when it’s time to replace their gutters. Warning signs that indicate the need for new gutters include cracks, fallen fasteners, holes, mildew, rust, and peeling paint. Sagging gutters with damaged fascia may also require replacing the entire system. Furthermore, gutters have a useful lifespan of 20 to 50 years, with most lasting on the shorter end. Replacing gutters over 20 years old can be more cost-effective than multiple repairs. It’s essential to inspect gutters regularly and address any issues promptly to prevent costly repairs and water damage. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and inspecting gutters, can help extend their lifespan and prevent damage to the home’s foundation and structure. By staying vigilant and addressing issues early, homeowners can avoid the extensive damage that failing gutters can cause, ensuring their home remains protected from the elements.

Cost of New Gutters – Final Thoughts

Understanding the factors that influence the cost of new gutters helps homeowners plan their projects effectively and choose the best options for their needs. Whether you’re considering seamless gutters for durability or exploring custom features, budgeting for these factors ensures a smooth installation process. The total cost of new gutters depends on various factors such as material choice, home size, and additional features.

For more resources, visit the Gutter Pros Education Portal. Ready to get started? Get a free estimate.