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What to look for on a gutter quote
Gutter quotes are priced per linear foot, but the real variables are seamless vs sectional, gutter material, gutter size, downspout count, and whether leaf guards are included. A complete quote itemizes all of these.
Total linear feet of gutter + downspouts, separately. Most 2,000 sq ft homes have 150–200 lft of gutter.
5" K-style is standard. 6" for large roofs or heavy rain areas. 7" for commercial or very large homes.
Aluminum (standard, $5–$10/lft), copper ($25–$40/lft), galvanized steel ($6–$12/lft), zinc ($20–$35/lft).
Seamless (custom-rolled on site) reduces leaks; sectional (10-ft pieces joined) is cheaper but leaks at every joint over time.
Count and size. 2"x3" standard for 5" gutter; 3"x4" for 6" gutter. Most homes need 4–6 downspouts.
Hidden hangers (every 24" max) are stronger than spike-and-ferrule. Stainless or aluminum screws resist corrosion.
Micromesh, reverse curve, or foam insert. Material and brand matters; LeafGuard / Gutter Helmet / LeafFilter are premium brands.
Tear-off and haul-away usually $1–$3/lft.
Rotted fascia should be replaced before new gutters hang. $5–$15/lft for fascia replacement.
Material (20 yrs aluminum, lifetime copper) + seams (no-leak warranty on seamless) + workmanship (1–5 yrs).
Red flags in a gutter quote
Sectional gutters cost $4–$6/lft; seamless $7–$10/lft. Getting charged seamless pricing for sectional product is a charge above benchmark rates.
Large roofs (2,500+ sq ft) need 6" gutter. 5" overflows in heavy rain, causing foundation and siding damage.
1 downspout per 30–40 lft of gutter is standard. Fewer = overflowing gutters, even if the gutter size is adequate.
Old-style fastener that rusts and pulls loose within 5–10 years. Hidden hangers are modern standard — stronger and invisible.
These in-home sales companies charge 3–5x what local gutter installers charge for equivalent leaf guard products. Get competing quotes before signing.
Gutters need to catch water from drip edge on roof. Quote should specify that drip edge extends into gutter.
Gutters need 1/4" drop per 10 ft toward downspouts for proper drainage. If quote doesn't mention slope, budget crew may install flat.
Common hidden costs and change orders
These items are often missing from the initial gutter quote and show up later as change orders or surprise fees. Ask about each before signing.
- Fascia replacement where rotted ($5–$15/lft)
- Soffit repair behind bad gutters
- Existing gutter removal and disposal ($1–$3/lft)
- Downspout extensions to drain away from foundation
- Splash blocks or underground drainage
- Second-story or steep-pitch labor surcharge
- Gutter cleaning/inspection on first service