Calculating The Return Of Your Gutter Investment

Rain gutters are an essential part of your home’s roofing system, as they carry storm water off your roofline and away from the foundation. This is crucial for protecting your home from water damage. Water seeping into the ground from the roofline can erode the soil around the base of your home, weakening the foundation’s integrity over time. Hence, if your gutters are in a state of disrepair, or your home lacks gutters, it may be time to replace your gutters. But how much can you expect to recoup the costs of replacing your gutters? This guide will take a closer look at your potential return on investment (ROI) and how to keep project costs low. We, Home Exterior Solutions LLC, located in Richmond VA, provide professional residential gutter replacement contractors to assist you in your gutter replacement needs.

There are two main styles of gutters manufactured and installed in homes: K-style and half round. K-style gutters are the most popular style of gutter installed on homes throughout the United States. They are deeper than other types of gutters and can move more stormwater off your roofline. Half round gutters, on the other hand, are more common for older architectural styles, as well as for homes clad in brick or natural stone. Though they aren’t as deep as K-style gutters, the open shape of the gutter trough on half round gutters tends to move water a bit faster. They also are simple to clean.

The first consideration you’ll have to make is what type of material you want to use. The most common and least expensive choice for residential gutters is vinyl, followed by aluminum. However, you could go with galvanized steel or copper gutters depending on your gutter budget. It’s highly unlikely that you would want to install expensive copper gutters on a simple manufactured home, or place vinyl gutters on a fully custom home in an upscale neighborhood. You can discuss your options with a licensed gutter contractor, who can help you pair the right gutter material with your home.

Aluminum gutters have about a 70-percent market share in the U.S. due to their longevity and affordability. Vinyl gutters, however, are the most affordable. Copper gutters, on the other hand, cost several thousand dollars just for the materials. Your gutter budget will go a long way in determining which type of gutter you choose, and also figure into your return on investment.

New gutters, unlike a kitchen or bathroom remodel, do little to increase your home’s value. However, gutters are an important part of a well-designed home, and their presence on the roofline won’t go unnoticed amongst discerning homeowners if you ever put your home up for sale. Additionally, while your home likely won’t appraise for greater value with gutters attached, their absence would be noted.

A lack of gutters can detract from your home’s value. To maximize your potential return on investment, you can keep costs low by opting for vinyl gutters, installing seamless gutters, and choosing the right gauge of metal. You can also install gutter guards to reduce the amount of debris that can collect in the gutter trough. While you won’t get any ROI out of them, you also won’t have to get up on a ladder to clean out your gutters, either. It could be one more feather in the cap for prospective buyers at resale.

In conclusion, replacing your home’s gutters can save you a lot of water damage-related headaches, and it’s worth considering a gutter replacement if your gutters are in a state of disrepair or your home does not have gutters. The ROI on gutter replacement may not be significant, but gutters are essential for a well-designed home, and their absence could detract from your home’s value. To maximize your potential ROI, consider the gutter style, material, budget, and installation options. Hiring a licensed gutter contractor can help you make informed decisions and ensure a successful gutter replacement project. Contact us, Home Exterior Solutions LLC, located in Richmond VA, for professional residential gutter replacement contractors to assist you in your gutter replacement needs.