If you live in the same home for quite a while, there may come a time when you determine that you need to have your gutters replaced. Hopefully, this realization occurs before your home falls victim to rotting siding, deteriorated landscaping, a flooded basement, or significant foundation damage.

Regardless of when you choose to replace your gutters, you must answer a pivotal question before moving forward: are you going to take on this project yourself or pay someone else to handle it for you?

Why You Need Gutters Installed

Before deciding how to have your gutters installed, it might be helpful to understand why you need them so badly. They do several important things. Your gutter system helps to keep your basement dry and foundation strong by preventing water from soaking the ground around your foundation, causing water damage and erosion. Gutters also direct the water away from your home’s siding, preventing water damage to that. And they even help prevent landscaping damage by routing the water in a way that will do the least harm. 

Gutter Installation Cost: DIY vs Professional

There are several factors involved in gutter installation costs besides just the labor. Different materials have different costs, and some sizes or styles will also cost more than others. The size of your home also factors in since a larger home will necessarily use more material, and a taller home will call for longer downspouts. But labor still makes up a large part of the final cost, so is it cheaper to pay for installation or DIY it yourself?

That depends. Some materials are easier to install than others – vinyl or aluminum may be more easily installed yourself than copper gutters. The complexity of your home’s roof can also make installing a smarter choice than DIY. Remember that improper installation can cost you in many ways, so if you’re unsure of your ability, it’s better to go with a professional. 

DIY Gutter Installation

If you’re an avid do-it-yourselfer, the first option is undoubtedly tempting. After all, gutter replacement is one of those projects where supplies, materials, and tools are readily available at any home improvement or hardware store. You don’t need to rent special equipment, and the entire job can probably be completed in a day (or even an afternoon).

Professional Gutter Installation

DIY gutter installation affords you financial, timetable, and design flexibility. Not only can you eliminate any per-hour labor costs that are figured into a contractor’s invoice, but you can also complete the work on your own time without having to arrange your schedule to be at home while the work is done. And if you want a gutter design or color that is out of the ordinary, you won’t be hamstrung by the limited options presented by any single gutter installer.

Pros of DIY

• Keeping costs down
• Availability of materials
• Increased flexibility

Cons of DIY

• May require the purchase of tools you don’t already own
• Mistakes can come with a high price tag
• Potential dangers involved in working high on your roof

Professional Gutter Installation

On the other hand, hiring an experienced gutter installation contractor might be a wiser choice. Chances are, most DIY projects you undertake don’t involve being several feet above the ground, perched either on a roof or atop a ladder. And if you’re one of the tens of thousands of people who fall from ladders or roofs each year and must visit an emergency room, any cost or time savings you planned on being wasted.

Plus, hanging gutters is not as easy as it may appear. For example, if you install gutters with too steep or gentle a pitch, the runoff water won’t flow properly to your downspouts. The same goes for guttering systems that sag in spots, especially around corners. And gutter sections that tilt too far forward or backward won’t be effective during heavy rain events.

A reputable gutter contractor has the experience to install gutters perfectly the first time. In addition, they also can spot and repair related problems such as rotting fascia boards or eroding shingles. Finally, gutter installers bring all of the bulky gutter materials to your home– and some companies can even create seamless gutters on-site that are customized to your home’s measurements.

Pros of professional installation

• You can choose a company that guarantees their work
• Avoid amateur mistakes
• Avoid injuries

Cons of professional installation

• Higher up-front cost
• Limitations based on what materials, styles, and colors the company offers

FAQ

Why are gutters important?

They provide various protections for different portions of the home, including the foundation, basement, siding, and landscaping.

Can I install gutters on my own?

DIY gutter installation is possible depending on the materials you choose, the complexity of installation for your home, and your skill level.

Is professional gutter installation affordable?

Professional gutter installation is affordable and may save you money in the long run by guaranteeing their work, avoiding mistakes that amateurs might make, and not exposing you to potential injury. 

Gutter Installation Suggestions

If you decide to install new gutters yourself, make sure to employ at least one helper, double-check all measurements, and fasten all pieces correctly and sturdily to avoid separations later on. If you opt for a contractor, check the company’s references or reviews, ask about insurance and licensing, and get a written estimate before work begins on your home.

Lednor Home Solutions uses durable 32 gauge seamless aluminum gutters for every gutter installation project. Their prices are competitive, and they have a long track record of satisfied customers. Lednor Home Solutions stands behind its work with a 20-year warranty. So if you decide to outsource your gutter installation, contact Lednor Home Solutions for a free in-home inspection and estimate.