When homeowners begin planning a gutter replacement or installation project, one of the first questions they ask is: how much do gutters cost per foot? It’s a smart question, because gutters are typically priced by the linear foot, and understanding that cost can help you estimate your total project budget more accurately.
At State Restoration Services, we’ve installed thousands of gutter systems across all types of homes. We know that homeowners want a clear, simple explanation of pricing, materials, and factors that influence total cost. This detailed guide breaks everything down in a way that’s easy to understand — so you can make confident decisions for your home.
Why Gutters Are Priced Per Foot
Before determining how much do gutters cost per foot, it helps to understand why this pricing method is standard.
Gutters run along the edge of your roof, and every home has a different amount of roofline. Pricing per linear foot allows for:
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accurate project estimates,
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fair and consistent pricing,
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flexibility based on home size,
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customization based on material choice.
This method also helps homeowners compare different material options side-by-side.
Average Cost: How Much Do Gutters Cost Per Foot?
Here are the typical price ranges for the most common gutter materials in the United States:
Aluminum Gutters
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$4 – $10 per foot (most common)
Vinyl Gutters
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$3 – $6 per foot (budget option)
Steel Gutters
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$8 – $12 per foot
Copper Gutters
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$20 – $40 per foot (premium option)
Seamless Aluminum Gutters
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$6 – $14 per foot
(usually installed on-site with professional equipment)
These prices represent materials plus installation — because most seamless gutter systems cannot be installed by homeowners without special machinery.
When asking how much do gutters cost per foot, seamless aluminum is usually the top choice because it offers the best combination of durability, appearance, and value.
Factors That Influence the Cost Per Foot
Gutter pricing varies from home to home. Several factors determine how much do gutters cost per foot for your specific project.
1. Material Type
Material is the #1 factor affecting price. For example:
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Vinyl is the cheapest but lasts the shortest time.
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Copper is extremely durable and beautiful, but also the most expensive.
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Aluminum offers the best balance between cost and longevity.
2. Home Size and Roof Layout
More roofline = more linear footage = higher cost.
Complex rooflines with:
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multiple corners,
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gables,
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dormers,
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steep pitches
may require additional custom pieces, which increases cost.
3. Seamless vs. Sectional Gutters
Seamless gutters are custom-formed on-site and installed in long continuous pieces. They are:
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less likely to leak,
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more durable,
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more attractive.
But they cost more per foot than prefabricated sectional gutters bought from a store.
4. Gutter Size
Standard gutters are 5-inch, but some homes require 6-inch for heavy rainfall.
6-inch gutters hold more water — but add $1–$3 more per foot.
5. Downspouts and Accessories
The cost per foot only covers the gutter channels, but a full system also includes:
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downspouts,
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elbows,
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brackets,
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hangers,
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end caps,
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splash blocks or extensions.
These additional components may increase your total project cost.
6. Labor and Region
Labor pricing varies across regions.
Urban and high-cost areas tend to have higher installation rates.
7. Removal of Old Gutters
If your old gutter system needs to be removed, that usually adds:
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$1 – $2 per foot
to the project total.
How Much Do Gutters Cost Per Foot? Real Examples
Here are sample calculations to help you understand total project cost.
Example 1: Small Home (100 linear feet)
Material: Aluminum
Price: $7 per foot
Total: $700
(+ downspouts & accessories)
Example 2: Medium Home (150 linear feet)
Material: Seamless Aluminum
Price: $10 per foot
Total: $1,500
(+ downspouts & accessories)
Example 3: Large Home (250 linear feet)
Material: Copper
Price: $30 per foot
Total: $7,500
(+ premium fittings)
These examples show why asking how much do gutters cost per foot is only one part of the full calculation — downspouts and custom cuts also matter.
Are Cheap Gutters Worth It?
Many homeowners consider buying low-cost vinyl gutters from a hardware store. But here are the drawbacks:
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Vinyl cracks easily in hot or cold weather
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It sags over time
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It fades and becomes brittle
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It leaks at seams
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It usually lasts only 5–10 years
In contrast, seamless aluminum gutters:
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last 20–30+ years
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don’t leak at seams
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handle heavy rainfall
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look better
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require less maintenance
Even though aluminum costs more per foot, it saves money in the long run.
Gutter Costs vs. Home Protection
Understanding how much do gutters cost per foot is important, but so is understanding what you’re protecting.
Proper gutter installation prevents:
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foundation cracks
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wet basements
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landscape erosion
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roof leaks
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mold growth
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siding damage
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structural decay
A correctly installed gutter system is one of the best investments you can make in your home’s long-term health.
How to Get the Most Value for Your Money
Here are tips to reduce your overall cost while still investing in quality:
1. Choose Seamless Aluminum
Best balance of cost + durability.
2. Ask for a Full Service Quote
Including removal of old gutters and installation of new ones.
3. Install Gutter Guards Later (Optional)
They reduce future cleaning costs but can be added after installation.
4. Maintain Gutters Regularly
Well-maintained gutters last longer and reduce repair expenses.
5. Work With a Trusted Company
Like State Restoration Services, which provides fair pricing and professional quality.
Is Professional Installation Worth the Cost?
Absolutely — especially for seamless gutters, which require special equipment.
Professionals ensure:
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proper slope for water flow
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secure fastening
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correct placement of downspouts
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precise measuring and cutting
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prevention of leaks
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long-term performance
DIY installation often leads to:
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sagging
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leaking seams
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poor drainage
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expensive water damage
Gutters may seem simple, but a small mistake can cause big problems.
Final Thoughts
So, how much do gutters cost per foot?
For most homeowners:
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$4–$14 per foot for aluminum or seamless gutters
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$3–$6 per foot for vinyl
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$8–$12 per foot for steel
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$20–$40 per foot for copper
The total price depends on material, home size, roof complexity, and downspout requirements.
View our residential roofing page for more information, or book free inspection here.
A high-quality gutter system is one of the smartest investments you can make in your home’s protection. If you’re considering new gutters, State Restoration Services is here to provide expert installation, honest pricing, and long-lasting solutions.