A shows an example of a rain gutter system for a typical house. Record the length of the rain gutter runs and mark the downspout locations. Measure the height of downspouts and add four feet to each for the extension away from the house at the bottom. White gutters including almond, ivory, herringbone and linen hues are often found on homes that have lighter-colored siding and exterior walls. They offer a neutral look, blending into your home’s exterior rather than adding to its appeal. In the image above, white gutters were installed on a home painted a greenish hue, which offers a bit of contrast. If so, you may be able to opt out of installing rain gutters entirely, as they simply are not necessary.
The most common gutter width is 5 inches, though it’s possible to find 4- and 6-inch gutters in most styles. If you need larger or smaller gutters, you may have to look into custom fabrication. Generally, the larger the gutter size, the more you will pay for materials. In addition to the parts listed above, you may choose to add gutter guards to your system to keep most debris from entering your gutters.
Downspouts prevent your gutters from overflowing — experts recommend one downspout for each 30—40 feet of gutter. If there are old gutters that need to be removed, doing the work yourself can help save on removal and labor costs. Consider this option only if you are confident that you will not damage your home, as doing so will add significant repair costs. It’s also important to be comfortable on a ladder, so that you avoid the risk of injury. Taking the old gutters off the house and disposing of them can add an extra $0.50 to $1 per foot to the total installation bill. If the old gutters are made of metal, homeowners will want to ask whether their contractor will be paid for the material when they bring it to a scrapyard or disposal site.
Downspout Screens
Installed at the base of a downspout, extensions prevent splash damage to your siding, foundation or driveway. Two hundred feet of gutter can cost anywhere between $660 and $4,500. Downspout extenders are attached to the bottom elbow of the downspout to direct water to a certain spot that is far away from the foundation. Many gutter installation estimates will be higher during peak season. Old and sagging gutters can negatively affect a home’s curb appeal. Leaking gutters can also cause streaks and stains on a home’s exterior. A new gutter system improves the overall curb appeal and adds to a home’s marketability.
In fact, many homeowners enjoy the look of these types of gutters. K-style gutters also come in a wide array of materials and sizes, and can also be installed seamless. Ultimately, you will need to select a style between seamed or seamless. Choose a shape from half-round, K-style, custom fascia, and box-style. Then finally decide on a material, including vinyl, aluminum, galvanized steel, zinc, and copper. Factor in the cost, ease of installation, and average lifespan of each product before making a conclusive decision.
Installation Method
Read more about Gutter Installation here.
Gutter hangers are brackets that give gutter strength and support – it’s no place to skimp. Depending on the slope of your gutters, professionals recommend using one hanger for every 3 feet of gutter – more in rainy or snowy climates. At $2 each, hangers add an average of $50 to your gutter project. Vinyl gutters are the most budget-friendly at $2 – $5 per linear foot. While not recommended for homes where temperatures reach hot or cold extremes, vinyl gutters and downspouts are suitable for most areas and can cost as little as $500. Expect to pay an average of $300 for 200 feet of mid-range steel gutters plus downspouts.
Read more about Gutter Installation here.