Today's gutter and spout systems consist of a series of modular pieces that you assemble to suit your house's situation. If you are replacing only parts of a system, be sure you don't mix metals; copper, steel, and aluminum are not compatible with each other. If you're not sure what your gutter's material is, consult a pro to give you a quick assessment.

Most gutters come in 10-foot lengths and require a downspout every 35 feet. Longer runs should be pitched toward an outlet at either end. Gutters should always be pitched away from valleys and toward corners.

Make a list of the components shown in lllustration 1, then inspect your house and write down how many of each you'll need.

Download a larger version of Illustration 1. (Requires Adobe Acrobat software.) Download Adobe Acrobat

Steel gutters are available in a plain galvanized or enamel finish.

Aluminum gutters are available in enamel or plastic-clad finish.

Vinyl gutters are available in white or brown. They cannot be painted.

• Durability. Vinyl gutters are sturdy and immune to rot and rust. Aluminum resists corrosion but is somewhat fragile and may need occasional repainting. Steel gutters are prone to rusting and should be painted, not left as bare metal. Copper does not rust or corrode, but leaky joints must be resoldered. Wood requires frequent waterproofing and painting.
• Ease of installation. Aluminum gutters are easy to install. Vinyl can be tricky; the joints of copper gutters must be soldered. The weight of wood gutters makes them difficult to lift into place.
• Maintenance needs. If properly maintained, you can expect vinyl or copper gutters to last at least 50 years. Aluminum should last 15 to 20 years, steel 15 years. Wood gutters last just 10 to 15 years before needing to be replaced.

Expect to pay more for metal gutters than the vinyl variety.

At the top of the cost heap is steel galvanized gutter, at $5.40 to $7.20 for a 10 foot section.

Aluminum gutters are next at $3.25 to $4.70, also for 10 feet.

Finally, the least-expensive vinyl gutter is $3 to $4.50 for 10 feet.

Downspouts cost $9.70 to $10.20 for galvanized steel, $4.80 to $7 for aluminum, and $5 to $8 for vinyl.