How Much Does It Cost to Install Galvanized Steel Gutters?
Gutters can be found in a wide range of materials, from vinyl to aluminum and more, and galvanized steel is one of the strongest and most durable materials of them all. Highly resistant to dents, corrosion, and the elements, it is a great choice for those who want strong, long-lasting gutters. However, it comes at a price, often being more expensive than many other gutter materials.
The average cost of galvanized steel gutter installation ranges from $900 to $1,950, with most homeowners paying around $1,470 for 150 linear feet of seamed galvanized steel gutters, professionally installed.
Galvanized Steel Gutter Costs
| Galvanized Steel Gutter Installation costs | |
|---|---|
| National average cost | $1,470 |
| Average range | $900-$1,950 |
| Minimum cost | $750 |
| Maximum cost | $1,921 |
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Galvanized Steel Gutters Installation Cost by Project Range
Galvanized Gutters Cost Calculator
The cost to install metal gutters, more specifically galvanized steel gutters, varies depending largely on materials: they come in two major styles, with seamless gutters costing more than seamed. The stainless steel gutter price will also increase for seamless when it comes to labor, as it requires professional machinery to forge these gutters. Galvanized gutters cost more than aluminum and are harder to work with, but are more durable. While aluminum gutters come in a wider range of colors and styles, steel gutters can often blend in better with many shingles. You can use this galvanized gutter cost calculator to guide your budgeting for this installation.
Galvanized Gutters Cost Calculator
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Galvanized Gutters Cost by Type
Galvanized steel gutters are divided into two main types: seemed and seamless. Seamed gutters have visible lines where multiple pieces have been attached together. Seamless styles consist of one continuous piece of material, without any seams or joints. The table below shows the average cost for each:
| Type of Gutter | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Seamed Galvanized Steel | $4 to $9 per linear foot |
| Seamless Galvanized Steel | $6 to $12 per linear foot |
Seamed Galvanized Steel Gutters Cost
Seamed gutters, also known as regular or traditional gutters, are made from precut sections that are then assembled. In the case of galvanized steel gutters, the pieces are soldered together, leaving little lines at the point of each solder. This can cause blockages to build up over time and may appear less attractive than the sleek and smooth style of seamless gutters. They are regarded as easier to install than seamless gutters and are cheaper overall, but they require more cleaning and maintenance. The average cost of galvanized steel seamed gutters is $4 to $9 per linear foot.
Seamless Galvanized Steel Gutters Cost
Seamless gutters are formed in a single continuous piece without any sections or seams. They are professionally created with a special machine that turns the sheets of galvanized steel or other materials into long continuous pieces. Seamless gutters are more attractive overall and reduce the risk of leaks and blockages. Most galvanized steel gutters are sold in seamless varieties, which are more popular. Galvanized steel seamless gutters look better and are lower maintenance, but they have a higher overall cost, ranging from $6 to $12 per linear foot.
Cost to Install Galvanized Steel Gutters
Installing galvanized steel gutters requires quite a lot of work, especially when compared to other gutter types. These gutters must be soldered in place, which can take a lot of time. They are also heavier than the alternatives like vinyl or aluminum gutters, which complicates the installation process. Regarding labor costs, most professionals charge between $3 and $8 per linear foot for the installation of galvanized steel gutters. For a standard installation of 150 linear feet of seamed galvanized steel gutters, expect to pay around $600 to $1,350 in materials and $500 to $900 in labor, for a total cost of between $1,100 and $2,250.
Galvanized Steel Gutters Pros and Cons
You have many options when it comes to gutter materials, and there are some clear advantages to choosing galvanized steel gutters. However, they have a few downsides. On the plus side, galvanized steel is an immensely tough and durable material for your gutters. It is strong and hard to physically dent and stands up well to the elements and corrosion. These gutters can withstand extreme temperatures quite well. They are less likely to leak than gutters made from other materials like vinyl and aluminum and can stay in place for around 20 years, with only reasonable maintenance required.
Galvanized steel is a versatile material for gutters, can be installed with any kind of shingle, and has many attractive, seamless options available. You can even paint galvanized steel different colors to suit the aesthetics of your home.
On the downside, galvanized steel is more expensive than many other gutter materials, in terms of material and labor costs. It can be tricky to install when compared to other materials due to its weight, and these gutters are also at risk from rust and losing their shape over time.
Aluminum vs Galvanized Steel Gutters
Aluminum is another popular choice for gutters, and you may wonder which material is right for your home. There are clear advantages on both sides and no clear winner for which material is more convenient for you, but aluminum gutters are cheaper overall. Aluminum gutters are also more accessible and available for most homeowners, making them easier to find, buy, and install.
Aluminum gutters come in a wider range of colors and styles, require less maintenance, and have lower installation costs. Unlike galvanized steel gutters, aluminum gutters will not lose their shape in hot weather and are quite resistant to rust. On the downside, they are more likely to leak and can crack or split over time in certain conditions. They are less strong, can have dents and knocks, and cannot be installed alongside certain shingles.
Steel gutters have the advantage of being stronger, more durable, and more resistant in most cases than their aluminum counterparts. They are also available in smooth, seamless styles that many homeowners appreciate and have the advantage of being compatible with most shingles. However, they are more expensive.
Galvanized Steel Gutters Maintenance
One of the big advantages of galvanized gutters is that they do not require much maintenance. They are very strong, durable, and difficult to damage with rain, ice, sleet, and snow. If you buy a seamless model, they are unlikely to suffer from clogs or blockages, so they do not need to be cleaned too often. They can also resist various extreme temperatures without losing their shape.
Galvanized steel gutters still need to be checked regularly for clogs and cleaned when needed. They should be repainted or sealed every few years to prevent rust from developing. You can do some of this work yourself or hire a professional. Professional gutter cleaning usually costs around $100 to $200, while gutter painting prices range from $200 and $600, depending on the amount of work involved.
Enhancements and Improvement Costs
Gutter Guards
Gutter guards act as barriers to your gutters, preventing leaves and other large debris from getting into the gutters and causing blockages or clogs. You can buy different gutter guards for galvanized steel gutters, ranging from $3 to $10 per linear foot.
Downspout Screens
Downspout screens are similar to gutter guards but are placed over the downspouts, blocking debris from falling down into the downspout and guiding the debris out and away from the gutters. The water drains away without any obstacles. Downspout screens cost around $6 to $12 each.
Heat Tape
Heat tape is another accessory you might consider for your gutters, especially if you live in a very cold region. When temperatures drop, ice can build up in your gutters. This can cause many problems, but heat tape warms up the gutters and prevents ice from forming in the first place. Costs vary tremendously for heat tape, ranging from around $10 to $25 per linear foot.
Removal of Old Gutters
If you have gutters that need to be removed, professionals will do this for about $100 to $200, depending on the amount that needs to be removed. This cost also includes the disposal of the old gutters.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Galvanized steel is a good choice for those who live in areas with extreme weather, due to its ability to resist different temperatures and the elements. It stands up to frost and snow well and is equally resistant to high temperatures.
- With some gutter materials, you install them yourself, but this is not recommended for galvanized steel gutters due to their heavy nature. It is best to hire a professional, but this increases the costs compared to installing other kinds of gutters, such as vinyl or aluminum.
- There are not many color options for galvanized steel gutters. Usually, you have only a choice between white, brown, and the classic steel gray color. However, more options are becoming available, and some companies offer steel gutters in greens, blues, reds, and more. They can always be painted, so if you are willing to pay extra or do the painting yourself, you can decorate your steel gutters in any color you like.
- Galvanized steel gutters rust, so they need to be treated and repainted every few years to minimize the risk. You might also opt for stainless steel gutters, which never rust. Stainless steel gutters are more expensive on average, costing around $15 to $25 per linear foot.
FAQs
- Are galvanized steel gutters better than aluminum?
In some ways, galvanized steel gutters are better than aluminum gutters because they are stronger and more durable, resisting some damage caused by the elements. They are also fully compatible with all kinds of shingles, which is not always the case with aluminum gutters. However, aluminum gutters have advantages, such as they are cheaper, easier to install, and require less maintenance.
- How long do galvanized steel gutters last?
With proper care and regular maintenance, expect galvanized steel gutters to last a minimum of 20 years.
- How many times a year should gutters be cleaned?
This depends on your region and the conditions in your area, but most professionals recommend cleaning gutters twice per year. The best way to do this is to have one clean in the spring and another in the fall.
How much does it cost to install galvanized steel gutters in my city?
Cost to install galvanized steel gutters varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). To get free estimates from local contractors, please indicate yours.
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