How Much Do Seamless Gutters Cost?

What Are Seamless Gutters?

Unlike regular gutters, which are made from multiple pieces, seamless gutters, also known as continuous gutters, are made from a single piece of material. Seamless gutters offer better protection and are easier to maintain than traditional gutters. This type of gutter requires professional installation.

Seamless Gutter Cost Per Linear Foot

Seamless gutters typically cost between $3 and $25 per linear foot. Costs vary depending on the type of material and your roof.

Seamless Gutter Cost By Material

Some common seamless gutter materials include aluminum, copper, vinyl, and steel. Here’s a look at each option.

Aluminum

Seamless aluminum gutters average about $4 to $9 per linear foot. Aluminum is the most popular choice for seamless gutters, and is durable, economical, and easy to bend and shape. It is popular in most climates, particularly in the north, which has to endure months of snow and ice. Aluminum seamless gutters should last at least twenty years.

Copper

Seamless copper gutters cost from $15 to $25 per linear foot. Copper gutters are used in locations with harsh and unpredictable weather, as they do not rust and can withstand extreme climate conditions. Copper gutters are more expensive than aluminum, but also more durable, and develop an attractive greenish-blue patina over time. These gutters can last for up to 50 years or more if properly maintained.

Vinyl

Seamless vinyl gutter installation costs between $3 and $5 per linear foot. Vinyl is less durable than aluminum and copper, and comes prefabricated. This means that you will require a professional to use a special machine to give your gutter a seamless finish after it is installed.

Steel

Seamless galvanized steel gutters cost $8 to $10 per linear foot. Steel gutters are only available through specific contractors, suppliers, or manufacturers. They are extremely durable and resistant to rust, but also tend to be more expensive.

Seamless Gutter Installation Cost Factors

Some of the factors that influence the cost of seamless gutter installation include the size of the project, the material you choose, and labor costs in your area.

Project Size

The larger your roof, the more expensive seamless gutters will be. Both materials and labor will cost more for roofs with more square footage. The specific type of roof will also affect the cost. For example, a house with small corniches and extra roofing on top of windows will also require more materials.

Material

Material is one of the most significant factors that affects the cost of seamless gutters. Vinyl is the least expensive at $3 to $5 per linear foot, while copper is the most expensive at $15 to $25 per linear foot.

Labor

Labor costs for seamless gutters typically average around $2.50 per linear foot. Labor may be more expensive depending on where you live, as well as the difficulty level of the project.

Downspouts

If you want to add a seamless downspout to an existing gutter, it will cost about $870 on average.

Gutter Size

The larger your gutter, the more expensive it will be. Most homes use a 5-inch gutter, but homeowners in parts of the country that experience more unpredictable weather, especially more downpours, might opt for a 6-inch gutter, which can withstand 50% more water. Six-inch gutters cost on average $3 to $5 more per linear foot than 5-inch systems.

Additional Materials

Depending on your particular situation, you may need additional materials in order to install seamless gutters. Materials and supplies typically cost around $3.50 per linear foot, and can include fasteners, brackets, underlayment, drip edges, and basic flashing.

Upgrades

You may want to spring for certain upgrades to your seamless gutters, like rain chains and leaf guards. Depending on which upgrades you choose, this can increase the overall cost of installation.

Roof Pitch

It costs more to install seamless gutters on steep roofs. The steeper the roof, the more labor-intensive the installation.

Tree Removal or Trimming

In some cases, you may need to trim or remove trees in order to safely install new gutters, which can add to the total cost.

Old Gutter Disposal

In many cases, you may want your old gutters to be disposed of at the same time that your new gutters are installed. Old gutter disposal can add an additional fee to the cost of installation.

Delivery

The cost of delivery is often based on mileage, which varies depending on how far away your home is from the gutter installation contractor that you’re working with. It’s a good idea to ask if there is a distance limit for the delivery.

Warranty

Seamless gutter installation should include a minimum one-year warranty on labor, and at least a 20-year on materials, though many companies will offer a lifetime warranty. This warranty is typically included as part of the cost of installing new gutters.

Common Repairs or Replacement Costs

Even if you don’t replace your gutters wholesale, you may need to repair or replace certain parts of them. Common gutter repair and replacement costs include:

DIY vs. Hiring a Seamless Gutter Professional

Seamless gutter installation isn’t a good DIY project. Seamless gutters are formed from one continuous roll, which is cut onsite to the specifications of the house for a perfect fit. It’s best to let a professional tackle seamless gutter installation, since it requires special materials and expertise.

FAQs

How do seamless gutters differ from regular gutters?

Regular gutters come in separate pieces that simply need to be placed together. They often get filled with leaves and other debris, which can necessitate hiring a gutter cleaning service.

Seamless gutters are formed from one continuous roll. Because the material is continuous, these gutters lack joints, fasteners, or other openings to let in as much debris as traditional gutters. They require less maintenance than traditional gutters, though you’ll still need to clean them.

Are seamless gutters more expensive?

Traditional gutters cost a little less than seamless gutters. Seamless gutters are made on-site to your home's specific measurements, and the professional installation can also add to the cost. However, the benefits to durability and ease of maintenance can more than compensate for the extra price, along with the added value to your home.

Are seamless gutters really seamless?

Not quite. While straight lengths of gutter are indeed seamless, mitered corners and downspouts have joints. This means that the gutters are not 100% seamless. However, fewer seams mean fewer chances of leaks and accumulating debris.

What are the advantages of seamless gutters?

Seamless gutters are easier to maintain and less prone to breakage and leaks. Fewer joints mean fewer places where the gutter can break, or where debris can accumulate. You'll also find a wider range of colors and materials with seamless gutters compared to traditional gutters. This means that you're more likely to find something that fits the aesthetics of your home.

How much does a seamless gutter machine cost?

Professional gutter machines can range from $6,000 to $15,000. Some pros and manufacturers use equipment that prices up to $40,000. These machines shape the flat material (vinyl, copper, etc.) into a gutter shape, and cut it at the desired length.