If the gutters on your home are old and deteriorating, you may be thinking about replacing them. It’s important to consider all the factors involved in the total cost of this project. Before you commit to a new gutter install, take a few moments to review some details concerning the cost analysis of materials, labor, and scope of work. These points of interest will give you a better idea of where your money is going.
Gutter Types
Gutters are manufactured using a number of materials. Copper, aluminum, vinyl, steel, and zinc are some of the options available to you. If you are interested in copper gutters, just bear in mind they tend to cost the most. Aluminum gutters are the most popular due to their affordability and ease of install. Additional materials to choose from include zinc, vinyl, and steel. Aside from the materials the gutter is made of, there are also four main shapes of gutters which may affect the price. Historically, the K-style has been the most common gutter shape seen on homes, although some more modern homes have custom gutters installed. Fascia gutters are more challenging to install than half-round or K-style gutters, making them cost more. Today’s best roofing contractors always install seamless gutters due to their durability and lack of leaking. Although non-seamless gutters have a cheaper upfront install cost, you’ll likely see faster corrosion of the system.
Fresh Installation vs Replacement
There are additional costs to remove and dispose of your old gutter before installing the new one. This will also lengthen the time needed to complete the project, adding to the overall cost. This is especially true for multi-story homes. A brand new aluminum gutter installation should last about 20 years, so if your home’s existing gutter system has reached the end of its lifespan, it’s recommended to contact a roofing professional to take a look. If your gutter is clogged, damaged or improperly installed, it could cause pooling which may undermine your home’s foundation. While the initial cost of expert gutter install is higher than a DIY job, roof work is extremely dangerous and time consuming. Plus, maintenance plans and warranties may save you a fortune in the long run in the event repairs are needed.
Size of Home
The size and number of stories to a home will play a major role in the cost of your gutter install. Gutters above the first floor require more labor and equipment to install, costing more. The design of your roof is important to consider as well. Seamless gutters are connected at the corners, and the more corners your roof has, the more connections need to be made. Experienced roofing companies know how to install gutters efficiently so it’s best to let the pros handle it. Attempting the install alone can end up costing you many hours of labor, materials, and frustration.
Color Preference
Since aluminum gutters need to be painted with enamel to protect them from corrosion, they often come in a variety of colors. Speak with a roofing consultant to discuss the color options available and the costs associated with them. Painting fascia gutters or porch gutters will cost more than other areas. Painting downspouts also often comes at an increased cost, however, check with your roofing company to get the specifics on pricing beforehand.
Downspouts and Gutter Guards
Pooling can occur on a roof without proper drainage which is a common cause of roof leaks. As a general rule, one downspout should be installed for every 20 feet of gutter. The design and layout of your home will determine the best locations for a downspout and a good roofing company will know where they should be installed. Another cost factor to consider is whether or not you want gutter guards installed. These come in varying price points as well.
No matter what options you choose, it’s important to rely on a trusted roofing company to perform the job for you. Midwest Roofing, Siding and Windows remains a reliable name in the industry throughout the Twin Cities area. Our roofing specialists will walk you through the various gutter options available and what choices may work best for your home. Gutter installation is a challenging task and should always be done by certified roofing professionals to ensure quality and safety. Call us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the services we provide.