How to Evaluate Quotes from Gutter Contractors

A working gutter and downspout system helps protect your home from water damage, so it’s important to replace gutters that are worn out. When you need new gutters, start by comparing quotes from different contractors. In fact, a recent Modernize survey found that 63 percent of homeowners compare three to four contractor estimates before hiring someone for a home improvement project.

What’s the Difference Between Gutter Quotes and Estimates?

It’s important to know the terms used in your gutter project. You might get quotes, estimates, or bids from local contractors, and each one includes different details.

An estimate is a rough idea of how much the contractor thinks the job will cost. Contractors use their experience to come up with this number. The final cost may be a bit higher or lower, usually within 10 to 15 percent.

Once signed, gutter quotes or bids turn into contracts. A contract should clearly list all parts of the project, including a breakdown of costs. At Modernize, we connect homeowners with contractors who provide free gutter quotes, so you can get accurate pricing after talking with them.

Evaluating Gutter Contractor Quotes

After you get several quotes, take time to review each one. Make sure you know the typical costs for gutter installation before making a decision.

Your gutter project quote should be clear, detailed, and sometimes long, depending on the project. It should list every detail, such as material costs, start and finish dates, and hourly rates. The quote should also mention things like disposal, dumpsters, permits, and porta-potties. Finally, it should include labor costs.

Look at the numbers and how the contractor presents them. A good contractor will organize and list everything clearly in the contract. If the quote isn’t clear, ask for a new one before you sign.

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Your Gutter Quotes May Vary

Most of the time, your gutter quotes should be close in price, but sometimes they will differ. Don’t be tempted by a much lower price, as it might not be a good deal. Very low bids can mean poor work or even a scam, so always find out why a quote is much higher or lower than others.

Modernize checks if gutter professionals are trustworthy before connecting them with homeowners. To learn more about finding a reliable contractor, read about how to vet gutter contractors over the phone.

Factors That Lead to a Higher Bid

• High-end contractors: Some professionals have more equipment and higher overhead costs, which can make their prices higher. However, this often means you get better quality work.
• Materials: The type of material used for gutters has a big impact on cost. Gutters can be made from steel, vinyl, aluminum, or copper. Copper is the most expensive at over $20 per linear foot, while vinyl is the cheapest at about $4 per linear foot. Prices also depend on whether the gutters are sectional or seamless, and K-style, half-round, or box style. Take time to research the different types and costs to find what fits your home and budget.
• Warranties: If your new gutter system comes with warranties for labor or materials, this will affect the price you are quoted.
• Hidden costs: Watch out for extra costs like permits and tear-off fees. Talk to your contractors about these possible charges.

Factors That Lead to a Lower Bid

• Insurance issues: Contractors who don’t have proper insurance may offer lower prices, but don’t let this influence your choice. If they aren’t insured, you could be responsible for any injuries or damages.
• No warranty: Contractors who don’t provide a warranty might give you a lower price, but if their work is poor, you’ll have to pay for repairs or hire someone else to fix it.
• Scams: Watch out for scams, especially after storms when many people need repairs. If a bid sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Fishing for business: Very low bids can be a sign that a contractor is desperate for work. Always ask for references or examples of their past projects to make sure they are trustworthy.

Whether your bid is high or low, always check your gutter quotes for mistakes. Contractors can make errors, even if it’s rare. Share any questions or concerns with them before moving forward.

Research Your Contractors

Vetting your professionals will ensure you find the best, most reliable gutter contractor for your project. Here are a few tips to ensure a gutter contractor’s trustworthiness:

1. Look at the contractor’s website to see if it looks professional and is up to date.
2. Check review sites and see if the contractor is accredited by the Better Business Bureau.
3. Check the contractor’s contact information to make sure they have a real street address, not just a P.O. Box, which can be a red flag.
4. If something doesn’t feel right about a contractor or business, trust your instincts.

To make it easier for homeowners to find a trusted gutter contractor, Modernize has created a free contractor checklist. You can find the interactive checklist on the Modernize Homeowner Portal or download it here.

Other Tips For Your Gutters Project

You can negotiate gutter replacement bids by talking about your budget with contractors and making sure any extra costs are put in writing. Keep all your estimates, quotes, and contracts together in a folder so you can easily refer to them during the project.