Eavestroughs (a.k.a gutters) are what directs rain and melted snow away from your home. It’s important to maintain eavestroughs and replace them when necessary because your home relies on them to protect the roof and foundation from water damage.
But replacing eavestroughs is easier said than done. Many homeowners are concerned about how much it costs to install new eavestroughs, especially since it should be done professionally.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the signs of failing eavestrough and how much it will cost to replace them.
Signs You Need an Eavestrough Replacement
Before we dive into cost factors, we first need to understand when problems with the eavestrough call for a replacement, or if they just need some maintenance and repairs. Here are some clear signs that an eavestrough replacement is necessary:
- Visible damage like cracks and holes are definite red flags. While these are usually caused by natural wear and tear, cracks, holes, or rust can lead to leaks and/or blockages.
- If the eavestrough is sagging or pulling away, something’s wrong. They should sit tightly along the edge of your roof. If they aren’t, they can’t channel water effectively.
- Consistent overflowing during rain shouldn’t happen and is usually a sign that your eavestrough is misaligned, damaged, or old.
- Mold growth in your basement could be a sign that the eavestrough isn’t directing the water away effectively.
- Peeling paint may only seem like an aesthetic issue, but it acts as a protective coating against water.
How Much Does New Eavestrough Cost?
Depending on the material, eavestrough can cost anywhere from $4 to $45 per linear foot. Since most contractors price eavestrough per foot, the overall price will rise depending on the size of your home.
If you live in the Waterloo region, our team of eavestrough experts can help you choose the right material for your needs and budget. We don’t think eavestrough should be a costly investment, which is why we’re dedicated to finding you something that is affordable and effective.
Eavestrough Replacement: Cost Factors
Now let’s explore what factors affect the cost of eavestrough. Understanding these cost factors will enable you to make cost-effective decisions about your project.
- Material Type: Vinyl is generally the most budget-friendly material for eavestrough, followed by aluminum. Steel and copper are also popular options but are most costly.
- Gutter Style: There are different types of gutter systems available, including K-style, which is the standard and most affordable. Seamless gutters are custom-fitted to your roof, which makes them more effective but also more expensive than K-style. Half-round is another version which is more decorative and also more expensive.
- Installation: How difficult eavestrough installation is can contribute to labour costs depending on how your contractor charges the service. Differences in roof height, slope, and accessibility can make installation take longer. Additionally, removing the old eavestrough is going to take time and add to the overall cost.
- Add-ons: Add-on options like gutter guards and downspout extensions serve as an extra layer of protection, but at an extra cost.