How much does it cost to install aluminum gutters?

Reviewed by Adam Graham remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Gutters play an important role in stormwater management, helping collect and move the water away from your home and foundation. While gutters come in many materials, aluminum gutters are some of the most popular due to their affordable price and impressive durability. Heavy-duty aluminum gutters collect water from your roof and transfer it to a downspout, where it is directed away from your home to prevent flooding and water damage.

Aluminum gutters come in different styles and sizes, which affects the final cost of the project. For a home that needs 175 feet of gutter, a 5-inch aluminum, seamless gutter installation costs between $1,100 and $2,000. Most homeowners pay around $1,427​ for 150 linear feet of seamed fascia aluminum gutters, installed. On the low end, it costs $975 to install 100 linear feet of seamed box aluminum gutters. On the high end, costs go as high as $2,609 to install 200 linear feet of seamed box aluminum gutters, including painting and priming.

Aluminum Gutters Installation Costs

Aluminum Gutter Cost per Foot

When preparing for aluminum gutter installation, note that this project is measured in linear feet because gutters are only needed to line the roof. The linear feet requirement is less than the home's overall square footage. Most single-family U.S. homes require 100 to 200 linear feet of guttering, although a contractor will provide a detailed measurement for each property.

It is possible to calculate an estimate of how many linear feet of guttering you need based on the home’s square footage because linear feet equals the length times the width of the footprint. The average aluminum gutter price per linear foot is $5 to $13 per linear foot for materials only and $6 to $20 per linear foot installed. Below are the average costs for common sizes of aluminum gutters.

Aluminum Gutter Cost by Width

Your gutter size may also impact your project costs. Aluminum gutters come in three sizes - 4”, 5”, and 6”.The larger the gutter, the more rain it can handle at once. Most homes use 4” or 5” gutters, while homes in heavy rainfall areas may need 6” gutters to deal with the extra precipitation. Because larger gutters require more material, they have higher costs than smaller gutters: 6” gutters have the highest costs, while 4” gutters have the lowest. Below are the average costs for aluminum gutters of the different sizes for 150 linear feet of sectional and seamless gutters installed.

Aluminum Gutters Cost by House Size

Aluminum gutters are measured by the linear foot for material and installation costs. The larger your home, the more gutters you need, and the higher the total project price. It is important to note that gutters are not installed along the home’s entire perimeter but only in areas where rainwater must be directed away from the foundation.

The number of linear feet required for your home varies depending on the number of stories and architectural design because taller homes need longer downspouts. The roof pitch and gables influence the aluminum gutter price. The table below shows the average cost to install aluminum gutters on popular house sizes.

Average Cost of Aluminum Gutters by Number of Stories

You can estimate the price of aluminum gutter installation based on the number of stories in your home. Costs to install aluminum gutters on a two-story or taller home are slightly higher due to longer downspout sections and additional scaffolding equipment. It is important to note that the number of stories has less impact on the price than the gutter size and shape, although there may be some overlap. Here are the expected costs for aluminum gutters based on the number of stories. These costs are calculated under the assumption that a single story home will have square footage between 800 and 1500 feet, while a two story home’s square footage will fall between 1,500 and 2,500, and a three story will fall between 2,000 and 3,000 square feet.

Aluminum Gutters Cost by Type

Aluminum gutters are available in two basic types: seamed and seamless. Seamed gutters are the more affordable option because these continuous gutters are sold in set lengths and joined on-site for larger pieces. Seamless gutters are constructed out of a single piece with no seam. There is greater protection against leaks; however, you will pay slightly more for them. Below are the average costs of seamed and seamless aluminum gutters.

Seamed Aluminum Gutter

Seamed gutters cost between $5 and $7 a linear foot for materials only or $6 and $11 a linear foot installed for a 5-inch gutter, depending on the length. Smaller lengths usually cost more per linear foot than longer sections. A seamed gutter comes in pieces, usually in specific lengths of 5, 10, or 20 feet. You fit them together with a connector that fits over the two ends, helping to make them tight. Seams leak over time, so caulk or solder may be required to seal them. The main benefit seamed gutters offer is the lower price. For smaller homes and those in regions without a lot of rain, seamed gutters typically suffice.

Seamless Aluminum Gutter

Seamless gutters cost $10 to $13 for materials only and $14 to $20 a linear foot installed for a 5-inch gutter. Seamless gutters are extruded on-site from an aluminum coil into a gutter that is the exact dimension of the run. The only seams are at the downspouts and corners, meaning the length of the gutter is seamless. While these gutters require caulking at the downspouts and corners to avoid leaks, they provide a better appearance and fewer leaks overall. They are faster and easier to install, going up in long sections. The seamless aluminum gutters cost per foot is a little more for the material, but the labor is usually less.

Aluminum Gutters Prices by Style

Gutters come in different styles and shapes. Each has its own look and, in some cases, way of attaching to your home. A professional gutter installer can recommend the best gutter style for your home to match the aesthetic and functional requirements. There are more styles for guttering, but these are the most popular for aluminum gutters. Costs range from $3 to $7 per linear foot for materials only and $4 to $14 installed.

K-Style

K-style is the most common gutter type. Aluminum gutters cost from $5 to $7 per linear foot for materials only and $6 to $14 per linear foot installed. K-style is sometimes called an ogee gutter for its rolled shape. These aluminum gutters attach in various ways to either your fascia or roof. Aluminum k-style gutters are easy to install and deeper than other kinds, so they are best for areas with high rain amounts.

Fascia

Fascia aluminum gutters are priced at $5 to $10 per linear foot for materials and $6 to $17 per linear foot installed. A fascia gutter, also called an eaves gutter, is combined directly with your home’s fascia to blend the two materials. If your home does not have a fascia board, the gutter attaches to the eaves. Aluminum is a preferred material for fascia gutters due to the durability, low maintenance, and tough finish that animals are less likely to chew on and nest in, unlike wood.

Half-Round

Half-round or u-style aluminum gutters are typically seen on high-end and luxury homes. Materials cost $7 to $11 per linear foot. Installation costs $8 to $18 per linear foot. Aluminum and copper are the most popular materials for the half-round style. A visible hanging system is required to support these gutters. Water flows faster through half-round aluminum gutters, so the chance of pooling water and damage is lower. These gutters are easier to clean, too.

European-Style

European-style aluminum gutters cost $9 to $13 per linear foot for materials and $10 to $20 per linear foot installed. This aluminum gutter is nearly identical to the half-round with one exception: the upper bead or lip of the gutter that faces away from the house rolls outward rather than inward. Otherwise, the two types of gutters are installed in the same way. The efficient round design supports water flow and keeps maintenance requirements minimum.

Labor Cost for Aluminum Gutter Installation

Gutter installers generally charge by the project or by the linear foot, depending on the area and type of gutters you are installing. The average cost of installing 150 feet of gutters is around $1,000 out of the $1,427 total. Some gutter installation specialists offer a per project cost between $1,000 and $1,900, with labor accounting for 50% to 70% of the total costs.

Gutter installation starts with an inspection of your roof, fascia, and current gutter system. The slope of your roof determines how much water your gutters receive at one time, which impacts how large your gutters must be. Contractors measure the length of each gutter run and downspout placement. Seamless gutters are extruded on-site to those exact measurements, while seamed gutters are cut and pieced together as needed.

The gutters are hung from either your fascia or roofline every 12 to 24 inches, with 12 inches providing better durability and strength. Hangers may be hidden or visible and attached to the back of the gutter, fascia, or roof. End caps are installed at the end of each run, and a downspout hole is cut. Finally, the downspout is attached, caulked, and anchored to the corners of the home. Seamless gutter installation takes about 1 to 2 hours from start to finish.

Aluminum Gutters and Downspouts Cost

Downspoutsare vertical pipes that drain water from the gutters and push water away from your home’s foundation. Downspouts are necessary for aluminum gutters and are typically installed at the same time to ensure the entire gutter drainage system is set up successfully. Most of the time, the downspout material matches the gutter one. With aluminum downspouts, you get the benefits of easy maintenance and a wide range of styles that blend in nicely with the rest of the home.

Like gutters of the same material, aluminum downspouts are one of the more affordable options. Aluminum downspouts cost $1.50 to $12 per linear foot for materials only and $2.50 to $17 per linear foot with installation. Meanwhile, aluminum gutters are priced at $3 to $7 per linear for foot materials only and $4 to $14 per linear foot for installation. Overall, you can estimate anywhere from $4 to $19 for aluminum downspout and gutter materials and $6.50 to $31 for installation. You can speak to your contractor to see if they offer any discounts for installing gutters and downspouts at the same time.

Aluminum Gutter Replacement Cost

Aluminum gutters should last at least 20 years if properly maintained. Repairs cost around $100 to $250 and can extend the life of aluminum gutters. However, there comes a point when they need to be replaced, especially near the 15- or 20-year mark. If there are signs of severe wear with major leaks, large holes, or cracks, or if the gutters are pulling away from the house, it is likely time for a replacement. Water pooling around the foundation of your home and rusting indicate a need for replacement. When replacing gutters, expect to pay between $0.65 and $0.85 for the contractor to remove, haul away, and dispose of old gutters. Then you need to pay for the new aluminum gutters, adding $900 to $3,000 to the cost.

Pros and Cons

Aluminum gutters are fairly popular with homeowners, thanks to a combination of affordable cost and durability. Aluminum is less expensive than most metals, including steel, copper, and zinc. When properly maintained, aluminum gutters can last for 20 years or more. They do not rust and can be factory-coated in a range of colors to match your home’s trim. They are also lightweight and do not sag. So if you need larger gutters, you will not need to worry about reinforcing the fascia. Aluminum gutters can be seamed or seamless. The seamless variety lasts for decades without much maintenance.

While aluminum does not rust, it corrodes if it comes into contact with other metals or some mortars. For this reason, isolate the gutter from other materials. Aluminum is not as long-lasting as some other metals. Aluminum dents, affecting its performance long term. Another potential downside of aluminum gutters is that the aluminum will need to be repainted at least once or twice because the enamel coating chips away over time. Extreme temperature changes can cause this metal to expand and contract, leading to cracking or splitting in aluminum gutters.

Maintenance

Aluminum gutters are fairly low-maintenance. However, all gutters need to be inspected and unclogged regularly. If you had your gutters painted at installation, they require regular repainting to keep them looking their best. Paint fades and becomes chalky on aluminum. When you rub your fingers on the gutter and find some of the color rubs off on your skin, it is time to repaint. If you opted for factory-finished gutters, these last significantly longer without requiring any paint.

Also, aluminum is susceptible to denting. If there are any large dents, you will want to have them straightened out to prevent clogs. Professional gutter cleaning is a worthwhile investment for most homeowners because it ensures gutters are free of debris and in the best condition possible to drain water without issue. Most gutter professionals charge $150 to $225 for gutter cleaning service, with prices ranging based on the total linear footage. It is best to have your gutters cleaned twice a year, once in the spring and again in the fall. This gutter maintenance schedule ensures dirt, twigs, and leaves are eliminated to avoid clogged and malfunctioning gutters.

Vinyl vs Aluminum Gutters Cost

Various other gutter materials are on the market besides aluminum, including vinyl, steel, wood, and copper. Of these, vinyl is the least expensive at about $3 to $11 per linear foot installed, with both seamed and seamless options. Aluminum gutters also come seamed or seamless, although they are more expensive at $6 to $20 per linear foot. For a cheaper project, homeowners may opt for vinyl but should be aware that it cracks and becomes brittle with time. Vinyl does not last as long as aluminum. Yet, aluminum has its own risks of expansion and cracks. Maintenance is required with both materials.

Steel vs Aluminum Gutters Cost

Steel is the closest to aluminum in terms of appearance and costs. Steel gutters cost $5 to $20 per linear foot, while aluminum may be just a little bit more at $6 to $20 per linear foot. There are several types of steel gutters, with galvanized on the lower end of the range and stainless steel on the higher end. Steel can be seamless or soldered, but it is difficult to paint and is susceptible to rust. It may also sag over time because it is heavier than aluminum. In comparison, aluminum is easy to paint and customize to match your home, requires less maintenance, and installs easily. Also, aluminum gutters hold up better in hot weather, although they are not quite as durable as steel gutters.

Aluminum vs Other Gutter Materials Cost

While aluminum, vinyl, and steel are some of the most popular types of gutters, many other styles are on the market. Wood is the oldest material used for gutters. While now rarely used, it can be found on some older homes. It is expensive, starting at around $21 to $32 per linear foot installed. Depending on the wood species, it rots over time and requires a lot of maintenance, such as waterproofing, staining, or painting to look its best. Aluminum is less expensive than wood and requires less maintenance. However, some people prefer the look of wood gutters on historic homes or those with a rustic feel.

Copper is a very popular material for gutters because it lasts more than 100 years when taken care of properly. It does not rust nor require paint. Most people opt for seamless, half-round gutters for a luxurious look. Copper is one of the most expensive, starting at around $25 to $40 per linear foot installed. In comparison, aluminum is more affordable but only lasts for around 20 years. Also, aluminum gutters can be built, installed, and replaced more quickly than copper.

Zinc is the most expensive option for gutters, costing $30 to $50 per linear foot. It is a long-lasting, low-maintenance option with protection against corrosion. Still, it is usually more expensive than aluminum. Another more costly option is galvalume gutters, priced around $20 to $30 a linear foot. Galvalume minimizes corrosion with a special coating of aluminum, zinc, and silicone, so it does not rust and lasts longer than traditional aluminum.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Aluminum Gutter Guards

To keep your gutters from clogging, you can install gutter guards, which cover the top of the gutter and allow water to enter but not leaves or debris. A full gutter guard system costs around $1,500. There are more affordable options starting at around $400, like PVC covers. Perforated aluminum, steel, foam, and micro mesh are other types of aluminum gutter guards.

Downspout Screens

With or without gutter guards, you can install downspout screens that prevent debris from entering the downspout. Downspout screens cost $5 to $15 each and are an easy way to protect against debris overload and avoid damaging the gutter system. This is especially true if you have seamed gutters, which are more prone to leaf and stick buildup due to the joints and seams.

Gutter Heat Tape

There are many heat elements that you can add to your gutters to prevent water from freezing in them. This ranges from heated gutter guards to coils, costing $500 to $650 for the average American home. Gutter heat tape is popular for stopping ice dams because the protected electrical cord keeps the gutters warm enough to avoid freezing.

Painting Aluminum Gutters

If you change the color of your home and the gutters initially do not match, or if the original paint on the gutters starts flaking off, they can be painted. The average cost to hire someone to paint aluminum gutters is $1 to $1.50 per linear foot. The best paint for aluminum gutters depends on the type of primer used. Acrylic or oil-based is fine as long as the paint matches the primer used. Choose from various colors, black aluminum gutters, white aluminum gutters, or any other color that matches your home will look great once painted.

Copper Penny Aluminum Gutters

Copper penny aluminum gutters are made from aluminum but coated with a glossy finish that mimics the look of natural copper. These gutters offer the classic copper look without a steep price, with copper penny aluminum gutters costing $5 to $10 per linear foot. These gutters hold their copper color for years without corrosion, although they do not last as long as traditional copper gutters.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Alternatives. Many alternatives to downspouts include rain chains, inverted bellows, and cups that direct the water to the ground or into a collection container. Ask your installer about the available options.
• Gutter gauge. Aluminum gutter gauge refers to the thickness, which is usually 0.025, 0.027, or 0.032 inch. Prices fluctuate slightly, with the thinner gauges being less expensive. However, they are more likely to bend or dent. Professional gutter installers prefer 0.027 or 0.032 inch thickness.
• Permits. You may need a permit to install gutters. Check with your installer or town or city hall for more information.
• Fascia repairs. In some instances, you may need to replace your fascia before installing new gutters. In others, you may be able to salvage it, but it may need repairs. Expect this to cost between $300 and $1,500.
• Time of year. Summer is the best time of year to install new gutters before the rain and snow of the spring and winter months.
• Home value. New aluminum gutters increase your home value slightly, especially if you live in an area with heavy rain and wind. While the home value boost is not as significant compared to larger products, it is still a worthwhile upgrade, particularly if you are looking at selling sometime soon.
• DIY. DIY aluminum gutter installation is not recommended. The measurements must be extremely precise, and the gutter sections must be joined together carefully. Homeowners who try this project themselves are at risk of improperly fitted gutters, so it is a task best left to the professionals.
• New construction. When installing aluminum gutters in a new construction, costs are lower than replacement because there are no old ones that need to be removed. Costs for installing 150 linear feet of aluminum gutters range between $1,100 and $2,000 and replacement costs around $1,200 to $2,000.