When you need to buy new gutters or get your gutter system replaced, a good place to start is with a free estimate from at least three companies. You want to work with a company that you can trust. An estimate submitted by a gutter contractor can tell you a lot about the company’s expertise and dependability. It’s important that the contractor is transparent and that you understand what a gutter estimate should include.
Regarding the Company
A gutter estimate should include contact information such the company’s name, address, phone number, and a website link if they have one.
While the actual documents will not be included in an estimate, it should state that the gutter company is insured, both worker’s compensation and general insurance. Whether it does or doesn’t, ask and verify that the company will be legally responsible for any accidents or damage that occur on your property.
Ask for proof of expertise – check for any applicable licenses, certifications, and any other related documentation.
Regarding the Gutter System
The estimate should outline each gutter component that will be used in the gutter installation.
Gutter materials: The gutter material you choose will determine the cost of the gutter system. For example, aluminum gutters will cost more than seamless aluminum gutters and copper gutters will be more expensive than either of the other two.
Gutter size: Standard gutter size for a residential roof is a 5-inch gutter system. However, depending on the complexity of the roof, and/or the size of the house, and local annual rainfall, you might need 6-inch gutters. A larger gutter system will cost more.
Number of downspouts: The number of downspouts depends on several factors including rainfall patterns, roof size, and the size of the house. Gutter contractors recommend one downspout for every 30 feet of gutter.
Number of corners: Installing corners can be time-consuming. A home with a multiple-level roof or a house with a non-standard shape might have a bump in labour costs when the gutter system is installed.
Colour: White is the least expensive gutter colour choice. Rich colours such as cobalt blue and burgundy tend to cost more because adding colour is an additional step in the manufacturing process.
Soffit and fascia repair: A standard gutter system is typically attached to the fascia. If it is showing signs of wood rot or other types of damage, it needs to be replaced before the new gutters are installed, Where the fascia board is attached to the soffit, it might also have to be replaced. A gutter contractor will include the labour and material costs for this additional work in the gutter estimate.
Add-ons and accessories: Add-ons and accessories such as gutter guards, splash blocks, rain diverters, and downspout extenders will typically cost extra – the cost for each one should also be itemized.
Regarding the Contractor Being on Your Property
How much will the company charge per hour for each technician? Will the contractor be responsible for disposing of the old gutters and cleaning up after the new gutters have been installed? What happens if someone gets hurt during the installation process? These and other contingencies should be part of the gutter estimate.
Labour: Labour details such as the number of technicians, hourly rate, and the timeline (length of time the project will take).
Removal: The company outlines its plans for removing and disposing of the old gutter system.
Prep work: The contractor will have a plan for protecting your property during the gutter installation – covering siding, ensuring windows are secured, and tarps are placed over potentially affected landscaped areas.
Clean-up: All debris should be removed and a thorough clean-up done. The contractor should perform a final walk-through to ensure nothing has been missed and the installation has been completed according to the estimate.
Regarding Terms and Payment Schedule
Once you’ve hired the gutter company based on the contractor’s estimate, you will be required to sign a contract. The estimate should include the terms and conditions specific to your gutter installation.
How Long: A typical estimate is valid for 30 days because of fluctuations in material and other costs connected to the project. However, some gutter companies offer longer time frames.
Warranties: Material and workmanship warranties can vary from one company to another. If you are examining estimates from more than one contractor, make sure you compare the details in each estimate.
Terms: The contract terms and payment schedule should be included in the estimate and also in the contract.
