The two most common gutter materials today are metal and plastic. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of durability and cost. Metal gutters such as aluminum, stainless steel and copper are known for their durability and long lifespan. However, they cost more compared to other materials.

Copper gutter is touted to be the most prestigious rain gutter system. Its price easily validates this claim as copper gutter is the most expensive type in the market. However, its functionality and great aesthetic appeal more than justify the steep price tag.

So how much do copper gutters cost? Let us make a comparison of prices with the other more common metal gutter, aluminum.

Price Comparison between Copper and Aluminum Gutters

A standard aluminum gutter will cost around $3.50 to $7.00 per linear foot while a copper gutter will run around $18.50 to $26.00 per linear foot.

An average 2-story, 2,000 sq. ft. house requires 200 linear feet of rain gutter to optimally drain out rainwater from the roof. An aluminum gutter will cost the homeowner approximately $700 to $1,400 (the price includes both material and labor) for this house.

For a copper gutter system on the same house, the owner will have to spend around $3,700 to $5,200 (again, the price includes both material and labor).

Based on these figures, the average cost of a copper gutter is 3 to 5 times more than aluminum gutter.

We add a disclaimer here that the prices quoted above are estimates since the rates will vary depending upon the location of the house, prices of materials and contractors’ rate.

Reasons Why Copper Gutters are Expensive

Why does copper gutter cost more than an aluminum gutter? Here are some of the reasons:

• Copper alloy costs more than aluminum.
• Contractors spend more time to install copper gutters and use extra care to prevent premature staining. They use special gloves during installation.
• Additional works are required for copper gutter such as extra soldering on the joints, which means more labor cost.
• You need copper accessories and fasteners to use with the copper gutters. Aluminum hangers will damage copper. You can use other metals though such as stainless steel and brass.

All these being said, the primary consideration of homeowners who are thinking about using copper gutters for their homes should be whether they really love the look of copper on their roofs. The high cost involved should be justified by the owners’ personal satisfaction of seeing copper gutters hanging on their homes.