Guttering Cost Per Foot Calculator
Use this tool to estimate the total cost of a guttering project based on the total linear feet required and the cost per foot, which typically includes both materials and labor.
Enter Guttering Details
Understanding Guttering Costs & Calculation
How is Guttering Cost Calculated?
The most common way contractors estimate the cost of new gutter installation is by the linear foot. This rate typically bundles the cost of the gutter material itself (aluminum, vinyl, copper, etc.), fasteners, downspouts, elbows, end caps, and the labor involved in removing old gutters (sometimes) and installing the new system.
The Basic Formula
The calculation is straightforward:
Total Cost = Total Gutter Length (in feet) × Cost Per Linear Foot
For example, if you need 150 feet of guttering and the cost is $8.00 per foot, the estimated cost is 150 * $8.00 = $1200.
Factors Affecting Cost Per Foot
While the calculation is simple, the 'Cost Per Foot' itself can vary based on:
- Material Type: Vinyl is usually the least expensive, followed by aluminum, then steel, and copper is the most expensive.
- Gutter Size/Style: Standard K-style gutters are common, but other styles or larger sizes (like 6-inch vs. 5-inch) can alter the per-foot price.
- Roof Complexity: Houses with many corners, multiple levels, or steep pitches require more labor and fittings, which can increase the per-foot cost or result in additional charges.
- Location: Labor rates vary significantly by region.
- Accessibility: Difficult access to the roofline can add to labor costs.
- Additional Work: Costs may increase if fascia or soffit repair is needed, or if extensive removal of old gutters is involved.
Always get multiple quotes from local professionals for an accurate estimate for your specific project.
Guttering Cost Examples
Explore these scenarios to see how the calculator works:
Example 1: Small House Standard Gutters
Scenario: A small ranch-style house with a simple roofline.
Known Values: Total Length = 120 feet, Cost Per Foot = $7.50
Calculation: 120 * $7.50 = $900.00
Estimated Cost: $900.00
Example 2: Average Size House, Seamless Gutters
Scenario: An average two-story house getting seamless aluminum gutters.
Known Values: Total Length = 180 feet, Cost Per Foot = $9.00
Calculation: 180 * $9.00 = $1620.00
Estimated Cost: $1,620.00
Example 3: Detached Garage or Shed
Scenario: Installing gutters on a small detached garage.
Known Values: Total Length = 45 feet, Cost Per Foot = $7.00
Calculation: 45 * $7.00 = $315.00
Estimated Cost: $315.00
Example 4: House with Many Corners
Scenario: A house with a complex hip roof requiring many mitered corners (may slightly increase effective per-foot cost).
Known Values: Total Length = 200 feet, Cost Per Foot = $9.50
Calculation: 200 * $9.50 = $1900.00
Estimated Cost: $1,900.00
Example 5: Premium Copper Gutters
Scenario: High-end home installing copper gutters.
Known Values: Total Length = 160 feet, Cost Per Foot = $25.00
Calculation: 160 * $25.00 = $4000.00
Estimated Cost: $4,000.00
Example 6: Small Addition
Scenario: Adding gutters to a new single-story addition.
Known Values: Total Length = 30 feet, Cost Per Foot = $8.00
Calculation: 30 * $8.00 = $240.00
Estimated Cost: $240.00
Example 7: Long Straight Runs
Scenario: House with minimal corners but long straight gutter sections.
Known Values: Total Length = 220 feet, Cost Per Foot = $8.25
Calculation: 220 * $8.25 = $1815.00
Estimated Cost: $1,815.00
Example 8: Budget Vinyl Gutters
Scenario: Opting for less expensive vinyl guttering.
Known Values: Total Length = 140 feet, Cost Per Foot = $5.50
Calculation: 140 * $5.50 = $770.00
Estimated Cost: $770.00
Example 9: Larger Home, Standard Gutters
Scenario: A larger two-story home needing extensive standard aluminum gutters.
Known Values: Total Length = 250 feet, Cost Per Foot = $8.75
Calculation: 250 * $8.75 = $2187.50
Estimated Cost: $2,187.50
Example 10: Small Section Replacement
Scenario: Replacing gutters on one side of the house.
Known Values: Total Length = 75 feet, Cost Per Foot = $8.00
Calculation: 75 * $8.00 = $600.00
Estimated Cost: $600.00
Frequently Asked Questions about Guttering Costs
1. What does "Cost Per Linear Foot" include?
Typically, this price covers the cost of the gutter material (gutters, downspouts, elbows, hangers, etc.) and the professional labor for installation. It might or might not include removal/disposal of old gutters; clarify this with your contractor.
2. How do I measure the "Total Gutter Length"?
Measure the length of all the roof edges where you plan to install gutters. Sum these lengths to get the total linear footage needed. Contractors will often do this measurement for you during an estimate.
3. Is this calculator an exact quote?
No, it's an estimate. The actual cost can vary based on the specific contractor, the complexity of your roof, the material chosen, your geographic location, and any unforeseen issues like damaged fascia.
4. Why do different materials have different costs per foot?
Materials like copper are more expensive to manufacture and work with than aluminum or vinyl, leading to a higher per-foot cost.
5. Does the calculator account for downspouts?
The "Cost Per Foot" rate provided by a contractor usually includes the necessary downspouts and associated components as part of the overall linear foot cost for the entire system.
6. Can I use this for gutter guard costs?
No, this calculator is for the gutter installation itself. Gutter guards are a separate cost, usually priced per linear foot of guard or per section.
7. What if my roof is very steep or high?
Complex or hard-to-access roofs often increase labor time and risk, which can result in a higher cost per linear foot than for simple, accessible roofs.
8. Should I get multiple quotes?
Absolutely. Getting 3-5 quotes from reputable local gutter installers is the best way to understand the typical costs in your area and compare services and prices.
9. Does removing old gutters cost extra?
Some contractors include basic removal and disposal in their per-foot price, while others charge an additional fee. Always ask for clarification.
10. What units should I use for length?
The calculator is designed for length in standard feet, as "cost per foot" is the common pricing unit in many regions. If you measure in inches or meters, convert to feet before entering the value.
