Styles

Choosing between styles for seamless gutters comes down to aesthetic preferences and budget. Some homeowners prefer a more vintage look and will go with styles like Victorian ogee gutters, while those leaning toward contemporary styles go for options like V-shaped gutters. Budget is also a consideration, since custom and rare styles have a higher price tag.

• K-style gutters. They have a letter “K” shape when looked at from a side profile. Instead of a rounded shape, the gutter curves at the top and bottom. The average cost per foot ² for K style gutters is $5 to $8 per square foot ².
• U-style. These are also referred to as half-round seamless gutters and have the same shape as standard gutters. This style has been a popular choice among homeowners for decades. Cost per foot ² for the U-style is $4 to $6 per square foot ².
• Victorian ogee gutters. They are made to resemble Victorian-era cast iron gutters and are connected directly to the fascia board. This type of gutter costs around $8 to $15 per foot ².
• Fascia gutters. Blend the gutters and fascia into one single system. These gutters are connected directly to roof rafters. Cost is around $5 to $10 per foot ².
• European seamless gutters. Another half-round gutter system, with a smooth rounded finish. Typically, these are installed using copper and cost around $12 to $16 per foot ².
• V-shaped gutters. They have a distinct triangular shape and are seen on more modern styled buildings. V-shaped gutters will range between $9 and $12 per foot ².

Materials

One of the biggest decisions needed before setting up a contract with a seamless gutter installer is deciding on the material for the project. Budget usually affects the type settled on as well as aesthetics.

Size

Size is not only determined by the circumference of your home. Size also refers to the height of the gutters as well as the downspout size. Larger sized gutter systems are needed if you live in a rainy climate, as well as if you have a steep pitch ⁶ to your roof. If your home is surrounded by numerous trees, this increases the potential for clogs and may also require larger sized gutters. In most cases, homeowners will choose a 4- or 5-inch gutter for installation. For homes with higher rainfalls or a steep roof, a 6-inch gutter is more appropriate. Custom 7- and 8-inch gutters are available, but will cost more than standard types and require specialized installation. Typical gutter sizes may cost around $10 to $15 per foot ², while larger, custom-sized types run upwards of $20 per foot ².

Labor

Seamless gutters require an installer to first measure your home. Seamless gutters are manufactured on-site with specialized equipment. After you have selected the size and material for your seamless gutters, they are cut to the home’s exact measurements. Installers use ladders and a lift to hoist the seamless gutters to the side of the house. While the seamless gutters are positioned, installers secure it to the home with screws.

Most laborers charge by the foot ² to install seamless gutters. Installation with the tools and materials needed for the project will cost approximately $3 to $5 per foot ². This cost is an addition to the price of the seamless gutters. This cost is different than traditional gutter installation since contractors in this case may charge per section.

If the installer does charge an hourly rate, you can expect to pay between $60 and $80 per hour for labor. Most installations for seamless gutters take between three and four hours to complete. The installer may add surcharges based on several factors. For instance, if you’re out of their service area, you may be prone to a $0.50 per extra mile fee. Removal of old gutters is also subject to a fee ($0.65 per foot ²).

Maintenance

Although seamless gutters require less maintenance than traditional systems, they still require regular cleanings and inspections. The average cost to clean gutters is $150. Professional gutter cleanings are recommended due to fall risks while on ladders. Seamless gutters should be cleaned at least once a year. Keep in mind that both gutters and downspouts must be cleaned.

Gutters can retain dirt and debris and should be cleaned as needed. Power washing is usually the best method to clean the exterior of gutters. The average cost to power wash a home, including the gutters, is $275. Depending on the material of the gutters you purchase, a stain protectant may be offered by the installer to make the gutters less prone to dirt buildup. An extra service charge is usually applied for stain protection services, with average prices starting at $100. Spot cleanings may be done with a mild detergent mixed with water. Check manufacturer recommendations before using any products to avoid damaging any of the materials.

It's not unusual for the appearance of seamless gutters to change over time. Depending on the material and weather conditions, the finish may dull or develop a patina ⁵. Any type of exterior coatings can also fade over time. These changes don’t impact the functionality of the seamless gutters.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Downspout Installation

Downspouts are needed to divert water away from the home and out to the road. Typically, a downspout is needed every 20 feet around the structure of a building. The cost of vinyl ⁷ downspout installation is upwards of $740.

Painting

One option homeowners may choose to enhance the look of their gutters is paint them to match the exterior color of the house. The average cost to paint gutters is approximately $2 per foot ². Professionals may also charge a flat fee of $500 or more to paint the gutters, depending on the size of the home.

Gutter Guards

Gutter guards are installed over the top of seamless gutters to limit the amount of debris, including leaves, caught inside. The average cost to install gutter guards is $1,900.

Heat Tape

Heat tape is a protective electrical wire placed inside the gutters as a way to prevent freezing during the winter. The average cost to install heat tape is between $550 and $650 for a standard size home.

Wire Mesh Screens

Wire mesh screens are a form of gutter guards and slightly more expensive than other types of gutter guards. The screen traps any debris and can cost $2 to $3 per foot ² installed.

Rain Chains

Rain chains are an alternative homeowners are using instead of downspouts. A rain chain works like a miniature waterfall and diverts water from a gutter through a series of bowls and cups. Rain chains are inexpensive and cost around $100 each.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Permits. Most townships will not require a special permit or license to have seamless gutters installed.
• DIY. Seamless gutter installation is not a DIY project. Special equipment is required to make the cuts for the gutters, as well as hoist the piece onto the house. Choose an experienced contractor with a solid track record of seamless gutter installations.
• Fascia repair. In most cases, you should replace the fascia when you install new gutters onto the home. If the fascia is in good shape and only requires minor repairs, then you may be able to salvage it before installation. Fascia repairs and installations cost an average of $6 to $8 per foot ².
• Season. Summer is the ideal time to install seamless gutters, before the rain and snow of the fall and winter months.
• Location. The gutters may be attached to a difficult-to-access area of the home. Talk to your contractor about any accessibility issues prior to installation.
• Gutter drainage. Any drainage issues should be addressed at the time of installation. An installer may recommend taking extra steps to improve drainage, like extending the downspouts. You may also have to adjust grading and sloping around the property.
• Warranty. Most seamless gutters include a lifetime warranty with purchase in case of structural failure. Ask your installer about coverage inclusions and limitations.