Gutter Prices Gutters prices can range widely, depending on the types of gutters you install. You have to take into consideration a number of factors when choosing a material: durability, local climate, house design and, of course, cost. Here are the gutter materials on the market, from the highest-priced to the lowest. Copper Varies according to metals markets, but usually $30 to $50 per foot. As gutter prices go, copper gutters cost more money. Copper has a lot of industrial uses, and demand from China has driven costs through the roof in recent years. That in turn makes copper a real thievery risk: copper gutters are being ripped off houses and churches and sold in scrapyards across the country. Similarly, they may not fit your house: copper gutters are generally used for historic buildings or structures attempting to emulate them. But, for your money, you get a gutter you’ll never have to paint, never have to worry about rusting, and will age to a nice, attractive patina. It may be worth it, especially if you hate painting. Stainless Steel $15 – $20 per foot Stainless steel may not age to a fine patina, but it won’t get stolen and it will never, ever rust. You may have to paint them to match your house, and maintain the paint job, but you will never have to worry about rust or replacing them. If you don’t want copper, but want something that will endure, this might just fit the bill. Zinc Varies with metal markets, usually $12-$17 per foot Zinc is another durable option, a little cheaper, that ages with a bluish patina and has less chance of being stolen as well. If you’re looking for seamless zinc, though, that may drive up the price; it’s fairly rare on the market. Aluminum Varies with metal markets, usually $9-$18 per foot Aluminum is probably the least durable of the metals used for gutters, simply because of its properties as a metal. Unlike the other metals above, you may have to replace aluminum gutters at some point, although at least it won’t be due to rust. However, its cost and ease of installation (aluminum is very light, making it easier to get up the ladder) make it extremely popular, especially for seamless gutters. If you choose aluminum, get primary aluminum and in the thickest possible gauge. “Secondary” aluminum is recycled and may have varying thickness across its length. Also, check out the various baked-on enamels available: there are dozens of formulations aimed at specific markets, and they can closely match your trim without a custom paint job. Galvanized Steel Between $4 and $8 per foot Galvanized steel is one of the most popular materials for gutters, and it’s no surprise: it’s cheap and durable. One problem, though: eventually, the coating on the steel will wear away, exposing the metal itself to the elements. And that means rust, even holes if you don’t check your gutters for a long time. While you can and should paint these gutters and even apply new coatings, you will eventually need to fix rust spots. Vinyl and Plastic Between $4 and $6 For the lowest gutter prices, vinyl and plastic are even cheaper, and very durable…in the right conditions. Vinyl and plastic are especially popular in the Southwest, as they don’t see much rain. In colder climates, vinyl or plastic can become brittle and break, but in warmer areas, all you have to do is give the gutter a coating of UV protection every year or so, and it’ll last quite a while. Remember, always buy the most durable gutter you can afford: the stronger the gutter, the less likely you’ll have to deal with materials damage. Just remember to factor in installation costs, paints, and other expenses when buying. Good luck and happy hanging!
