Gutters and downspouts are vital parts of a roofing system and a home’s overall health as it protects your house against flooding and moisture infiltration.
Most homeowners choose seamless gutters because of the value and protection they provide to their homes. Unlike its traditional counterpart, they don’t feature any seams or cuts to minimize the chances of leaks or clogs from occurring. They also look better than regular gutters.
However, as most people know, quality comes with a hefty price tag. The first question in many homeowners’ minds is the cost of these types of gutters. Different variables can affect the cost of seamless gutters. This guide covers the common factors to consider when installing or replacing your gutters.
Home Size
The first step in figuring out the cost of your seamless gutters is to measure your roofline. The height and size of your home can affect the material price and labor costs as most companies charge per foot for a full gutter replacement. A larger or longer home would have a higher price as it requires more linear feet of gutter.
Residential homes often use 5-inch seamless gutters, but 6-inch gutters are better for roofs with steep pitch or for houses located in a climate with heavy rainfall or snowfall as it can withstand 50% more water.
When measuring your roof, you don’t need to get its full dimensions but the length of the spots where you’ll hang the guttering sections. The downspouts need to be counted, and the length of their pipes measured.
Materials
The most significant factor in determining replacement or installation cost is the gutter material. Seamless gutters are available in different materials, and each type will greatly impact the amount you spend on new gutters.
Keep in mind that downspout extensions, roof flashing, and hangers to hold your gutters in place.
Aluminum
By far, the most popular gutter material is aluminum due to its durability and price. It’s lightweight, easy to work with, and is corrosion-resistant. Aluminum also has a wide assortment of colors, so they match a wide variety of home styles.
The only disadvantage to aluminum rain gutters is that they aren’t as sturdy as other materials, and they can dent.
Copper
Copper is a high-end material that is more common for historical restorations, but homeowners like it for its elegant appearance. This material can add a distinctive, old-world ambiance to a home.
As copper ages, the material takes on a blue-green patina, which most certainly displays beauty. However, a sealant can be applied periodically to prevent oxidation.
They are expensive but rustproof and very dependable, so it can last for decades. It’s even possible that a gutter system made from this material can even outlive you.
However, copper is not as durable as aluminum. Fortunately, copper gutters won’t need as much maintenance, nor will it grow mildew.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel gutters have gained popularity among homeowners. These gutters are coated with a layer of zinc, which makes it more resistant to rust. However, it’s still possible for it to rust after a while when water doesn’t drain efficiently or if wet leaves remain on the gutter.
These gutters tend to have a longer service life than their aluminum counterparts, but it also has a higher cost as well. Galvanized steel is also a heavy material and requires soldering, making the labor charges for the installation higher than the others.
Accessories
In addition to the gutters themselves, the prices of the gutter accessories need to be factored in. There are different reasons why gutter accessories should be a part of your gutter installation. Each one has different qualities that can improve the level of protection your roof gets.
Some are useful for carrying rainwater away from your foundation. Others can prevent the overflow of water from your roof valleys, clogging, and erosion. There are also a wide variety of options in the market that can add a sophisticated touch to the appearance of your home’s exterior.
Style
Homeowners don’t have too many gutter styles to choose from for seamless installations. The most common styles are the half-round and K-style. Half-round gutters or U-shape are shaped precisely like a half-circle. These gutters are historically preferred on homes because all you need are basic tools to create them.
K-Style gutters, also known as ogee, are loosely compared to the letter K as the outer shape of the gutter vaguely appears like the letter with a straight line coming from the bottom of the gutter, then two opposite curves, followed by another short line. This gutter style became common as its resemblance to interior crown molding complements more modern homes.
Conclusion
The only fool-proof way to know the right price is to get request an estimate from professionals like Fahey Roofing Contractors.
Fahey Roofing Contractors is the trusty roofing contractor that will help with necessary roof repairs and replacement. As roof contractors, we understand the importance of well-designed gutters and want you to enjoy the benefits of high-quality gutters. Check out our residential and commercial roofing services on our website or contact us at (304) 826-1333 to learn more.