Rain gutters play an important role in protecting your home and yard from water damage. Gutters that are properly maintained help divert water away from home, reducing the likeliness of basement flooding, wood rot, mold growth, and similar issues. Rain gutters also prevent water from pooling on your roof, in your yard, and on your driveway. Without a well-functioning gutter system, water from your roof can result in landscaping erosion which affects your plants and shrubs. Standing water is also the perfect environment for insects and other pests. Rain gutters can prevent all of these issues and more. This article will talk about how much a gutter replacement cost is.
Benefits Of Installing Rain Gutters
Every house should have gutters, no matter how big or small. Rain gutters are so important that many municipalities across the country are not requiring gutters during new residential construction. Some of the biggest benefits of rain gutters include:
- Prevent destabilization of soil around the home.
- Avoid foundation problems.
- Prevent flooding in basements and under the home.
- Reduce erosion and preserve landscaping.
- Minimize settling and cracking of driveways, sidewalks, and patios.
- Prevent water damage and staining.
- Preserve exterior doors and garage doors.
- Keep your home looking clean, tidy, and free of built-up debris.
- Extend the life of your roof.
Without gutters, rain and melted snow will ultimately run down your roof and directly onto the ground below. If you have a fairly large roof overhang, this may not be such an issue. However, for the majority of homeowners, a lack of gutters can cause significant damage over time. While the damage may be minimal at first, problems will often become more apparent over time. Water has the ability to cause extensive structural damage and possibly reduce the value of your property. If you intend to sell your home in the future, you may have difficulty if signs of water damage exist.
Average Cost Of Gutter Replacement
The cost of gutter replacement can greatly vary based on the material used, your location, and the contractor that you hire to install it. On average, you can expect to pay between $4 and $30 per linear foot for a rain gutter replacement. For the average size home, gutter replacement can range from $1,600 to $2,175 in total. When it comes to choosing gutters and a contractor to install them, you do not want to go with the cheapest option available. While you may save money in the short-term, you get what you pay for in the long-run as cheap gutters are known to need frequent repairs.
Types Of Gutters
The type of gutter you choose will have a major impact on the final cost of the project. There are two main types of gutters to choose from: sectional and seamless. Sectional gutters are the most affordable option, but can experience problems such as leaking at the seams. In comparison, seamless gutters do not usually leak and require less maintenance overall. However, they are also more expensive. You will also need to consider the different gutter materials which can also influence the cost of the project. These materials typically include:
- Vinyl – This is an economical option costing just $3 to $5 per foot on average. However, vinyl is susceptible to cracks which can drastically shorten their lifespan.
- Copper – Copper rain gutters are very durable and can last several decades if well cared for. You can expect a steep price of about $15 to $30 per foot.
- Aluminum – This type of gutter system is also economical, costing an average of $4 to $7 per linear foot. While aluminum gutters are fairly easy to install as they are lightweight, they can also be damaged easily by wind and debris.
- Stainless Steel – Most stainless-steel gutters fall within the $9 to $20 per foot mark, making them an affordable option for homeowners. While this type of gutter comes with a lot of upfront maintenance, this material can last a lifetime if well cared for.
- Wood – While not as common as the other options, wood is a durable option for gutters that can greatly enhance your home’s curb appeal. You can expect wood rain gutters to cost anywhere between $12 and $20 per foot.
Size Of Your Home
There are a number of other factors that can impact the cost of your gutter replacement. For example, the size of your home can have a major influence on cost. As you would expect, larger homes require more material and labor, meaning an increased price. The height of your home can also impact cost, as well as the contractor’s ability to easily access your roof. If special equipment is needed to complete the job, you can expect the project to cost more. Also consider if you will be adding extras to your gutters, such as gutter guards. These guards can help protect your new gutter system against damage and save you money in the long-run. While they are an additional charge, most homeowners find them worth the extra cost.
Of course, the cost of the contracting company you hire will also play a major role in your gutter replacement cost. Do not just go with the cheapest contractor around or you will likely regret it later on. Always hire a contractor that is fully licensed and has a staff that has undergone extensive training. Ask the gutter company who you are thinking about working with for testimonials from previous clients. It is also a good idea to read customer reviews to learn more about the company and their level of customer service.
Speak To A Gutter Replacement Contractor
Your home’s gutters serve you well everyday by directing water away from your roof and foundation. Unfortunately, even the best gutter systems will eventually need to be replaced. If your gutters have succumbed to cracks, breaks, loose seams, or other issues, consider having them replaced by a professional before the next heavy rain fall to prevent damage to your home and property. For more information about gutter replacement cost or to schedule a consultation with a contractor that specializes in gutter repair and replacement, contact the experts at Beyond Exteriors.