How Much Does Gutter Replacement Cost? (Per Linear Foot)

Gutter replacement costs $5 to $40+ per linear foot installed in 2026, depending on material — with most homeowners paying $2,800 to $5,200 for a full-house project. Aluminum is the most common and affordable choice; copper sits at the premium end.

Cost by material, per linear foot

Seamless vs. sectional gutters

Beyond material, gutter style also affects price:

• Sectional gutters ($3–$20/LF): pre-formed lengths joined on-site, lower cost but more seams — and more potential leak points over time
• Seamless gutters ($8–$28/LF): formed on-site from a single continuous run of material, costing more but reducing leak risk and long-term maintenance

What adds to the total

• Removal of old gutters: adds roughly $1-$3 per linear foot on top of new installation
• Downspouts: typically priced separately, based on how many your home needs and their length
• Gutter guards: an add-on some homeowners choose at install time to reduce debris and cleaning frequency — priced separately from the base gutter installation

When to replace gutters alongside a roof

If you're already having roofing work done, replacing worn or undersized gutters at the same time avoids a second contractor visit and ensures the new roof's drip edge and the new gutters are properly integrated. See our roof replacement cost guide by material for the roofing side of that budget, or check Roof Repair Cost: Leaks, Flashing, and Missing Shingles if failing gutters are actually contributing to a roof leak rather than needing full roof work.

Prices on this page are researched ranges compiled from multiple public contractor-pricing sources, not quotes from us or a guarantee of what you will pay. Actual costs vary by region, material choice, and job complexity — always get itemized quotes from licensed local contractors before committing to a project. See How We Price for our sourcing methodology.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need new gutters or just a repair?

Sagging sections, visible rust or corrosion, gutters pulling away from the fascia, or recurring leaks at multiple seams generally point to full replacement being more cost-effective than continued patching. An isolated leak or a single loose section can often be repaired instead.

What size gutters do I need?

Most residential homes use 5-inch K-style gutters, but homes with steep or large roof areas may need 6-inch gutters to handle higher water volume during heavy rain. A contractor can size this based on your roof's square footage and local rainfall intensity.

Are seamless gutters worth the extra cost?

For most homeowners, yes — fewer seams means fewer potential leak points and less maintenance over the gutters' lifespan, which often offsets the higher upfront cost over time, especially compared to lower-cost sectional systems that need more frequent recaulking.

How often should gutters be replaced?

Well-installed aluminum or vinyl gutters typically last 20-30 years, while copper can last 50+ years. Regular cleaning and prompt repair of small issues (loose brackets, minor leaks) is the biggest factor in reaching the upper end of a material's expected lifespan.