Find out costs for uPVC, cast iron, and aluminium rain gutters, plus labour rates and additional costs.
uPVC gutter replacement: £30+ to £70+ per metre
Cast iron gutters replacement: £85+ to £275+ per metre
Aluminium gutters replacement: £55+ to £180+ per metre
Full replacement for detached house (48 m): £1,440+
Hourly rate for a specialist: £55+ to £65+
Replacing rain gutters is a vital task to maintain the structural integrity of your home, ensuring proper water drainage and preventing costly water damage.
But how much does it cost?
The price to replace rain gutters in the UK typically ranges from £540+ for a small flat property to £1,440 or more for a detached home.
Factors such as material type, property size, and labour costs all influence the total expense.
Data for this guide was collected in March 2025 from online industry sources.
Here’s a detailed look at the cost of replacing rain gutters, based on material and property size.
Task / project | Cost (low) | Cost (high) | Average cost (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
uPVC gutter replacement (per m) | £30+ | £70+ | £50 |
Cast iron gutter replacement (per m) | £85+ | £275+ | £180 |
Aluminium gutter replacement (per m) | £55+ | £180+ | £118 |
Replacement uPVC downpipe (per m) | £35+ | £45+ | £40 |
Replacement cast iron downpipe (per m) | £120+ | £190+ | £155 |
Replacement aluminium downpipe (per m) | £75+ | £90+ | £83 |
Flat gutter replacement (18 m) | - | - | £540 |
Terraced house gutter replacement (25 m) | - | - | £750 |
Bungalow gutter replacement (30 m) | - | - | £900 |
Semi-detached house gutter replacement (38 m) | - | - | £1,140 |
Detached house gutter replacement (48 m) | - | - | £1,440 |
Costs accurate as of March 2025
uPVC gutter replacement (per metre)
Replacing your uPVC gutters is a practical way to make sure your home stays protected from water damage while keeping costs manageable.
This lightweight and durable material costs between £30+ and £70+ per metre, with an average price of £50 per metre.
It’s an affordable choice for most homes and offers long-lasting performance.
Cast iron gutter replacement (per metre)
For a touch of traditional charm, cast iron gutters are a popular option, especially for period properties.
While they’re robust and stylish, they do come at a higher price, costing £85+ to £275+ per metre, with an average of £180 per metre.
They’re worth the investment for their durability and classic aesthetic.
Aluminium gutter replacement (per metre)
Aluminium gutters strike a balance between style and strength, making them a great choice for modern and traditional homes alike.
Expect to pay between £55+ and £180+ per metre, with an average of £118 per metre, depending on the finish and installation complexity.
Replacement uPVC downpipe (per metre)
Updating your uPVC downpipe ensures rainwater is efficiently directed away from your home.
This straightforward upgrade costs £35+ to £45+ per metre, averaging £40 per metre.
It’s a budget-friendly fix to keep your drainage system in top shape.
Replacement cast iron downpipe (per metre)
If you’ve opted for cast iron gutters, matching downpipes are a must for a cohesive look.
These durable downpipes cost between £120+ and £190+ per metre, averaging £155 per metre.
They offer the same timeless appeal and sturdy performance as their gutter counterparts.
Replacement aluminium downpipe (per metre)
For homes with aluminium gutters, aluminium downpipes provide a seamless and stylish finish.
You can expect to pay between £75+ and £90+ per metre, with an average cost of £83 per metre.
A practical and visually appealing choice.
Flat gutter replacement (18 metres)
Replacing flat gutters for an average-sized section (18 metres) will cost around £540+.
It’s a straightforward way to maintain your home’s water drainage while preventing leaks and overflows.
Terraced house gutter replacement (25 metres)
If you live in a terraced house, replacing your gutters typically costs around £750+ for 25 metres of new guttering.
This is an investment that helps keep your home safe and dry.
Bungalow gutter replacement (30 metres)
Replacing the gutters on a bungalow costs approximately £900+ for 30 metres.
With fewer levels to navigate, it’s often a simpler and quicker job compared to multi-storey homes.
Semi-detached house gutter replacement (38 metres)
For semi-detached homes, gutter replacement usually costs around £1,140+ for 38 metres.
It’s a worthwhile expense to maintain the structure and integrity of your property.
Detached house gutter replacement (48 metres)
Replacing gutters on a detached house involves more extensive work, with an average cost of £1,440+ for 48 metres.
It’s a solid investment in keeping your home’s drainage system in excellent condition.
Labour costs
The hourly rate for a guttering specialist typically ranges from £55+ to £65+ (averaging £60), with day rates averaging £175.
You might also consider hiring a roofer to install or replace guttering, too.
With both professions, costs may vary by location and project complexity.
Below, you’ll find the reasons that the cost of gutter replacements vary in the UK.
1. Material choice
uPVC is affordable and low maintenance, costing £30+ to £70+ per metre
Cast iron is durable but expensive, ranging from £85+ to £275+ per metre
Aluminium offers a mid-range option at £55+ to £180+ per metre
2. Property size
Larger properties require more materials and labour, increasing overall costs.
Projects like these may require longer for design work, too.
3. Labour costs
Expect to pay £55+ to £65+ per hour or £150+ to £200+ per day for a guttering specialist.
If you’re opting for a roofer, they charge £40+ per hour or £300+ per day.
4. Additional repairs
If you need to repair or replace soffits and fascia boards, or deal with structural damage, that will increase costs.
While grouping work like this with your gutter replacement will mean a larger outlay, it could also mean better value for money.
5. Accessibility
Hard-to-reach areas or multi-storey homes may require scaffolding, adding to the expense.
You can learn what you might need to pay with our scaffolding cost guide.
6. Regional variations
Labour and material costs are generally higher in London and the South East compared to other regions.
In general, urban areas tend to have higher prices than rural areas, too.
Read these gutter replacement and repair frequently asked questions if you’re not quite ready to hire a pro yet.
Should I repair or replace my gutters?
Repairs (cheaper short-term fix): minor leaks, cracks, or misaligned sections can often be repaired for around £150
Replacement (long-term solution): if your gutters are old, brittle, or corroded, replacing them reduces the risk of recurring issues and maintenance costs
Pro tip: if gutter repairs exceed 50% of the cost of replacement, it’s often more economical to go for a full replacement.
Want to compare repairs and replacements? Take a closer look at what you could end up paying with our gutter repair cost guide now.
How long do gutters typically last?
Your gutter installation’s lifespan will depend on its material and how well it’s maintained.
uPVC: 20 to 30 years with proper gutter cleaning and maintenance
Aluminium: 30 to 40 years – ideal for weather resistance
Cast iron: over 50 years if regularly painted and checked for rust
Regular maintenance, such as clearing debris and ensuring downpipes aren’t blocked, can significantly extend their lifespan.
What are the signs I need to replace my gutters?
Watch out for these warning signs:
Cracks or splits: even small cracks can worsen over time, leading to leaks
Sagging or pulling away from the roofline: this often signals structural failure
Peeling paint or rust: visible damage indicates water exposure and corrosion
Water pooling near foundations: poor drainage could lead to structural damage
Mould or mildew growth: excess moisture from leaks may encourage mould
Pro tip: inspect your gutters twice a year, especially after heavy storms.
If any damage has occurred, you need to deal with it as quickly as possible to prevent further issues.
Should I hire a gutter installer or install the gutters myself?
Considering replacing your rain gutters yourself? Here’s what you need to know about your options:
DIY replacement:
Suitable for single-storey homes with straightforward access
Cost of materials and tools can be significant
Safety risks increase with higher properties, especially without proper ladders or scaffolding
Hiring a professional:
Safer for multi-storey homes or complex installations
Professionals have the right tools and expertise to spot hidden issues
Labour costs typically start at £150+ per day, but the peace of mind is often worth it
We don’t recommend replacing your gutters yourself unless you’re experienced with DIY work and have the proper equipment.
Beyond that, it’s worth remembering that if your guttering isn’t properly installed, it could result in structural damage to your property.
Pro tip: if you’re unsure, get a free consultation to evaluate the complexity of the job.
Are there ongoing costs after gutter replacement?
Yes – but they’re minimal if you keep up with regular maintenance:
Cleaning: expect to pay around £50 to £300 for gutter cleaning every 6 to 12 months
Repairs: address minor issues early to avoid costly damage
Gutter guards: these cost a modest fee but help prevent blockages, saving you maintenance costs
Proactively clearing and cleaning your gutter installation is the easiest way to keep significant costs down.
It's one of several important outdoor jobs for autumn and winter, where material can build up quickly.
Pro tip: want to book a gutter cleaning service? Take a moment to learn how much gutter cleaning costs with our guide.
Can I install eco-friendly guttering options and still save money?
Want to help the planet, but worried about having to spend more? Here are your options:
Aluminium gutters: 100% recyclable and highly durable
Rainwater harvesting systems: collect and reuse rainwater for your garden, reducing water bills
Reclaimed materials: recycled uPVC or second-hand cast iron can cut costs and waste
Pro tip: ask your installer about sustainable options – they’re often more affordable than you think.
How can I save money on gutter replacement?
Get more bang for your buck with these tips:
Get multiple quotes: aim for at least three quotes to compare prices
Pick the right material: uPVC is cost effective but still durable for most homes
Schedule off-peak work: autumn and winter are busy seasons – booking work in spring or summer can mean lower rates
Bundle repairs: combine gutter replacement with other roofing work – like roof repairs or a roof replacement – to save on labour
Need help choosing a guttering installer? Read TrustMark’s top tips for hiring reliable tradespeople now.
How long does gutter replacement take?
For most residential properties, gutter replacement takes 1 to 2 days.
Larger or more complex properties might take longer.
Pro tip: get a timeline estimate from your tradesperson before work starts to avoid unexpected delays.
Discussing these details can help resolve disputes with your professional should they arise later on.
The cost to replace rain gutters varies widely based on material, property size, and location.
Expect to spend between £540+ and £1,440+ for a complete replacement, with additional costs for repairs or upgrades.
Properly functioning gutters are a crucial investment to protect your home from water damage.
Looking for professional help?
On Yell, you can find top gutter replacement services near you in seconds.
Simply browse profiles, read reviews, and get in touch with your favourite services to start comparing quotes.
Short on time? Just post a free enquiry with a few basic details and you’ll hear back from local pros through your preferred contact method. Easy!
For more cost guides, home improvement advice, and money-saving tips, check out the Yell blog now.
Disclaimer
Cost data was gathered from an analysis of wider industry data. Actual costs may vary depending on location or complexity of the task, project, or service. We encourage customers to reach out to industry professionals for specific quotes based on their unique requirements.