Top Gutter Cleaning & Repair Services in Athens, GA

There are several gutter styles and materials to choose from, with the most popular type being K-style gutters. Homeowners can also choose between fascia gutters and half-round gutters, which are moderately popular. Less popular types include valley gutters, Victorian Ogee gutters, and box gutters.

The most popular type of gutter material is aluminum due to its durability. Other materials include vinyl, steel, zinc, and copper. Wood was previously a common gutter material for homes built before the 1960s, but its popularity dwindled with the rise of metal gutters.

Homeowners can also choose between seamless and non-seamless gutters. Seamless gutters typically only have joints at the corners where they wrap around the roof. Seamless gutters' design helps prevent clogs that lead to gutter leaks and overflows. Non-seamless gutters are easier to install and typically cost less, but are more prone to leaks.

Gutters last between 20 and 25 years, on average. A gutter system’s lifespan depends mainly on the material and how well you practice regular maintenance. The more durable the material, the longer gutters last. Vinyl gutters have the shortest life span, typically lasting around 10 or 15 years. Copper gutters have the longest life span, lasting 100 years or more.

Gutter guards can help extend the lifespan of a gutter system, as they help block debris that can deteriorate and damage the gutters. If you notice any signs of damage to your gutters, call in a local gutter repair contractor to address the problem and extend the life of the gutters.

Gutter installation costs between $620 and $1,700, for about 200 feet of gutters, or $1,100 on average. The gutter material greatly impacts the cost of gutters. Vinyl gutters are the least expensive, costing between $3 and $5 per linear foot, whereas copper costs the most at between $25 and $40 or more per linear foot. Gutters that fall in the mid-price range include aluminum, at $6 to $12 per linear foot, and steel, at $9 to $20 per linear foot. Adding additional gutters to an existing gutter system costs about $10 per linear foot, on average, depending on the material.

It is possible to paint gutters, but the answer depends on what type of gutter material you have. The best type of gutter to paint is aluminum, as its surface lends itself well to painting. If done well, painted aluminum gutters last for several years and resist peeling and rusting. The least-ideal gutter material to paint is vinyl. Many homeowners choose to paint their gutters to improve curb appeal. It’s a relatively simple project to do yourself, but it’s typically best to hire a local exterior painter to paint gutters. Regardless of color, any paint used on gutters should be a high-quality 100% acrylic paint that does not contain ammonia. You should also use a non-ammonia primer before painting gutters. If your gutters already have paint on them, it’s best to remove the old paint before re-painting. Always clean your gutters by scrubbing away dirt and debris before painting them, otherwise you won’t have a clean finish.

You should clean your gutters at least once a year, though most pros recommend cleaning them twice a year. This is especially true if you have several tall trees near your roof. For example, if large oak or pine trees hang over your roof, you’ll need to clean your gutters and downspouts between two and four times per year, depending on how much debris collects in them. Installing a gutter protection system, like micromesh gutter guards or screens, allow you to cut back on cleanings to as few as one or two times a year, even if you have several tall trees nearby.