How to Choose a Gutter Company in Metro Detroit: 7 Questions

📅 February 19, 2026 👤 NEXT Exteriors ⏱ 12 min read

You've got three quotes for new gutters. One's half the price of the others. One guy showed up in a beat-up truck and eyeballed your roofline from the driveway. The third gave you a glossy brochure and talked about "premium systems" but couldn't explain what makes them premium.

Here's the truth: most homeowners hire a gutter company based on price alone, then spend years dealing with leaks, ice dams, and water in the basement. In Southeast Michigan—where we get lake-effect snow, spring downpours that dump two inches in an hour, and freeze-thaw cycles that wreck poorly installed systems—your gutters aren't decorative. They're the first line of defense for your foundation, basement, and landscaping.

I've been installing seamless gutters in Detroit, MI and surrounding communities since 1988. I've seen what happens when homeowners choose the wrong contractor: sagging gutters by the second winter, fascia boards rotting behind new aluminum, downspouts that dump water right against the foundation. And I've fixed hundreds of those jobs.

This guide walks you through the seven questions that separate legitimate gutter contractors from the fly-by-night installers who disappear after the check clears. Ask these before you sign anything.

Question 1: Are You Licensed and Insured in Michigan?

This should be the first thing out of your mouth. In Michigan, any contractor doing work over $600 must have a residential builder's license issued by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). That license number should be on their truck, their business card, and their estimate.

What to ask for specifically:

• Michigan Residential Builder's License number (you can verify it online through LARA)
• General liability insurance certificate (minimum $1 million coverage)
• Workers' compensation insurance (protects you if someone gets hurt on your property)

If a contractor hesitates or says "we're working on renewing that" or "insurance is expensive, but we're careful," walk away. You're not just protecting yourself from liability—you're ensuring the contractor has the experience and accountability to do the job right. Licensed contractors have something to lose if they screw up. Unlicensed ones just move to the next town.

NEXT Exteriors has held a Michigan Residential Builder's License since 1988 and carries full liability and workers' comp coverage. We provide proof of insurance with every estimate, and our BBB A+ rating reflects 35+ years of accountable work in Macomb, Oakland, and St. Clair counties.

Question 2: What Type of Gutter System Do You Install?

Not all gutters are created equal, and in Michigan, the difference between a good system and a cheap one shows up fast. Here's what you need to know:

Seamless vs. Sectional Gutters

Seamless gutters are formed on-site from a single piece of aluminum (or copper, if you're fancy). They have no joints except at corners and downspouts, which means fewer places for leaks to develop. In Michigan, where freeze-thaw cycles put constant stress on joints, seamless systems last 20+ years with proper installation.

Sectional gutters are pre-cut lengths joined together with brackets and sealant. They're cheaper upfront, but those seams fail—usually within 5-10 years in Michigan weather. You'll spend more time on ladders resealing joints than you saved on the install.

Any reputable contractor in Southeast Michigan installs seamless gutters. If they're pushing sectional systems, they either don't have the equipment or don't plan to be around when the seams start leaking.

Material and Gauge

Most residential gutters are aluminum. Standard thickness is .027 gauge, but .032 gauge is more durable and handles Michigan snow loads better. Copper gutters are beautiful and last 50+ years, but they cost 3-4 times more than aluminum. Steel gutters are rare in residential work—they rust unless maintained religiously.

Ask what gauge aluminum they use and why. A good contractor will explain that thicker material costs more but reduces denting and sagging under ice and snow weight.

Sizing: 5-Inch vs. 6-Inch K-Style

Most homes in Metro Detroit use 5-inch K-style gutters. But if you have a steep roof, large roof area, or live in an area prone to heavy rain (like near Lake St. Clair), 6-inch gutters handle water volume better. A contractor who doesn't measure your roof pitch and square footage before recommending a size is guessing.

Question 3: How Do You Handle Fascia Inspection and Repair?

Here's where you separate pros from hacks: a quality gutter contractor inspects your fascia boards before installing anything.

Fascia is the vertical board that runs along your roofline—it's what gutters attach to. In Michigan, fascia rot is common, especially on older homes where gutters overflowed for years or where clogged gutters caused water backup. If you install new gutters over rotted fascia, the whole system will pull away within a year or two.

What a good contractor does:

• Walks the entire roofline and checks fascia condition with a screwdriver or by hand
• Points out soft spots, rot, or water damage
• Includes fascia repair in the quote or provides a separate line item with material and labor costs

Red flags:

• "Your fascia looks fine from here" (without getting on a ladder)
• "We'll deal with it if we find problems during install" (translation: surprise charges later)
• "We don't do fascia work—just gutters" (means they'll install over rotted wood and blame you when it fails)

At NEXT Exteriors, fascia inspection is part of every gutter estimate. If we find rot, we replace it with treated lumber or PVC trim before hanging gutters. It costs more upfront, but it's the only way to ensure the system stays attached for decades. And because we also handle house siding in Detroit and roofing services, we can address underlying moisture issues that caused the rot in the first place.

Question 4: What's Your Hanger Spacing and Attachment Method?

This is where most cheap gutter jobs fail. The hangers—the brackets that attach gutters to the fascia—determine whether your system holds up under Michigan's snow and ice loads or sags like a hammock by the second winter.

Industry Standard: 24 Inches or Less

Reputable contractors space hangers every 24 inches. In areas with heavy snowfall (like parts of Oakland County near Bloomfield Hills), spacing them every 18 inches is even better. The tighter the spacing, the better the system handles weight.

If a contractor says "we usually do 36 inches" or "it depends," they're cutting corners. Period.

Hidden Hangers vs. Spike-and-Ferrule

Hidden hangers (also called bracket hangers) are the modern standard. They're screwed directly into the fascia and hidden inside the gutter. They distribute weight evenly and don't work loose over time.

Spike-and-ferrule systems are old-school—a long nail (spike) driven through the gutter into the fascia, with a tube (ferrule) inside the gutter to keep it from collapsing. These were common 30 years ago, but they loosen over time as the wood around the spike compresses. You see them on older homes where gutters are sagging or pulling away.

If a contractor in 2026 is still using spikes and ferrules, they're either working with outdated equipment or don't care about longevity. Ask specifically: "Do you use hidden hangers, and what's your spacing?" If they can't answer clearly, keep looking.

Question 5: Do You Guarantee Proper Pitch and Drainage?

Gutters need to slope toward the downspouts—not much, but enough to keep water moving. The industry standard is 1/4 inch of drop per 10 feet of gutter run. Too flat, and water pools and breeds mosquitoes. Too steep, and water rushes past the downspout opening during heavy rain.

A good contractor uses a level and measures pitch during installation. They don't eyeball it. And they plan downspout placement based on your home's grading and drainage patterns—not just "wherever it's easiest to drill a hole."

Downspout Placement and Extensions

Here's what matters:

• Downspouts should be placed at low points where water naturally wants to flow, typically every 30-40 feet of gutter run
• Extensions should carry water at least 6 feet away from the foundation—farther if your yard slopes toward the house
• Downspouts should never dump onto driveways, sidewalks, or patios where ice will form in winter

In Metro Detroit, poor downspout placement is the leading cause of basement water problems. If your contractor doesn't ask about your basement history or look at how your yard drains, they're not thinking past the gutter install.

We've written extensively about how clogged gutters create basement problems—it's a chain reaction that starts with poor drainage planning.

Question 6: What Does Your Warranty Cover—and What Doesn't?

Every gutter contractor offers a warranty. The question is whether it's worth the paper it's printed on.

Material Warranty vs. Workmanship Warranty

Material warranty comes from the manufacturer—usually 20-30 years for aluminum gutters against defects like cracking or corroding. This is standard and doesn't tell you much about the contractor.

Workmanship warranty is what the contractor guarantees about their installation. This is where you see the difference between companies. A reputable contractor offers at least 5 years of workmanship coverage, sometimes 10. That means if gutters sag, hangers pull out, or seams leak due to installation errors, they fix it at no cost.

What typically voids a warranty:

• Damage from falling tree limbs or other "acts of God"
• Neglecting to clean gutters (debris buildup can cause overflow and stress)
• Modifications or repairs by another contractor
• Damage from ice dams caused by poor attic insulation (not the gutter's fault)

Ask for the warranty in writing before you sign. If a contractor says "we stand behind our work" but won't put it in the contract, that's a red flag. And check: is the warranty transferable if you sell the house? That adds value when you list the property.

NEXT Exteriors provides a written workmanship warranty with every gutter installation, and because we've been in business since 1988, we're not going anywhere. We also handle attic insulation in Metro Detroit, so if ice dams are contributing to gutter problems, we can address the root cause—not just the symptom.

Question 7: Can You Provide Local References and Photos?

This is your reality check. A contractor who's been doing quality work in Southeast Michigan should have no problem giving you contact info for three recent customers in your area—preferably within the last year.

What to Ask References

When you call past customers, ask:

• "Did the crew show up on time and finish when they said they would?"
• "How did they handle cleanup?" (Good contractors don't leave gutter scraps and aluminum shavings in your driveway)
• "Were there any surprises with the final cost?"
• "How have the gutters held up through a Michigan winter?"
• "Would you hire them again?"

What to Look for in Project Photos

Ask to see photos of completed jobs—not stock images from a website, but actual projects they've done. Pay attention to:

• Corner miters: Do they look clean and tight, or are there gaps where water could leak?
• Downspout outlets: Are they centered and sealed properly?
• Fascia condition: Is the wood clean and painted, or are there water stains and rot visible behind new gutters?
• Hanger visibility: Hidden hangers should be... hidden. If you see a bunch of screws or nails on the outside of the gutter, they're using outdated methods.

If a contractor can't show you recent local work or gets defensive when you ask for references, that tells you everything. We maintain a project gallery on our website with real homes in Sterling Heights, Troy, Grosse Pointe Farms, and across Southeast Michigan. And our 5.0-star average rating across 87+ reviews isn't an accident—it's the result of showing up on time, doing the work right, and treating people fairly.

What Gutter Problems Look Like in Southeast Michigan

Michigan weather is tough on gutters. Here's what happens when systems are poorly installed or maintained:

Ice Dams and Icicle Formation

Ice dams form when heat from your attic melts snow on the roof, and the water refreezes at the eaves where it's colder. This ice buildup blocks gutters and forces water under shingles, causing leaks. Icicles hanging from gutters are a symptom of poor attic insulation, not bad gutters—but clogged or improperly pitched gutters make the problem worse.

If you're dealing with recurring ice dams, the fix isn't just new gutters—it's addressing attic insulation and ventilation. We see this constantly in older homes in Clinton Township and Warren, where attic insulation hasn't been upgraded since the 1970s.

Basement Water Intrusion

When gutters overflow or downspouts dump water next to the foundation, that water seeps into the basement. In Southeast Michigan, where many homes sit on clay soil that doesn't drain well, this is a recipe for chronic moisture problems, mold, and foundation cracks.

We've written a detailed breakdown of how clogged gutters lead to basement problems—it's one of the most common issues we fix.

Fascia Rot and Soffit Damage

When gutters overflow consistently, water runs down the fascia and soaks into the wood. Over time, this causes rot—especially on homes with older wood fascia that isn't properly sealed or painted. Once rot starts, it spreads fast, and you're looking at fascia replacement before you can even install new gutters.

Foundation Settling and Landscape Erosion

Water pouring off a roof without gutters—or from gutters that dump right next to the foundation—erodes soil and can cause foundation settling. This is especially common in areas like Lake Orion and Rochester Hills, where homes are built on sloped lots. Proper gutter systems with extended downspouts prevent this entirely.

When to Replace vs. Repair Your Gutters

Not every gutter problem requires a full replacement. Here's how to decide:

Repair Makes Sense If:

• You have a single section that's damaged (e.g., a tree branch dented one area)
• Hangers have pulled out in a few spots but the gutters themselves are sound
• A seam or corner joint is leaking but the rest of the system is solid
• Your gutters are less than 10 years old and were properly installed

Replacement Makes Sense If:

• Gutters are sagging in multiple locations
• You see rust, corrosion, or holes in the metal
• Seams are leaking in multiple spots (common with sectional gutters)
• Fascia is rotted and needs to be replaced anyway
• You're already replacing the roof or siding (it's more cost-effective to do gutters at the same time)
• Your system is 20+ years old and showing wear

We're honest about this at NEXT Exteriors: if your gutters can be repaired, we'll tell you. We've been in business too long to push unnecessary replacements. But if the system is failing in multiple places, a full replacement with seamless gutters and proper installation will save you money and headaches in the long run.

And because we offer comprehensive exterior services in Detroit—from roofing to siding to windows—we can coordinate gutter work with other projects to minimize disruption and cost.

Why NEXT Exteriors Takes Gutters Seriously

We've been installing seamless gutters in Southeast Michigan since 1988. That's 35+ winters of ice dams, spring storms, and homeowners calling us to fix what the last guy screwed up.

Here's what we do differently:

• We inspect fascia before every install. If we find rot, we fix it. We don't hang gutters over bad wood and hope for the best.
• We use .032 gauge aluminum and hidden hangers spaced 24 inches or less. This isn't negotiable—it's how you build a system that lasts.
• We measure roof pitch, calculate water volume, and plan downspout placement based on your property's drainage. We're not just hanging gutters—we're solving water management problems.
• We provide written warranties and stand behind our work. If something fails due to our installation, we fix it. No excuses.
• We coordinate gutter work with roofing, siding, and insulation projects. If your gutters are failing because of poor attic ventilation or rotted trim, we address the whole system—not just the symptom.

We're also a CertainTeed Certified 5-Star Contractor, which means we meet the highest standards for installation quality and customer service. That certification applies to all our work—gutters included.

And because we handle window replacement in Detroit, exterior painting in Southeast Michigan, and every other aspect of home exteriors, we understand how all these systems work together. Gutters aren't a standalone project—they're part of your home's weather protection envelope.

Ready to Get Started?

NEXT Exteriors has been protecting Michigan homes since 1988. Get a free, no-pressure estimate from a team that shows up on time and does the job right.

Get Your Free Quote

Or call us: (844) 770-6398

Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Gutter Company

How much do seamless gutters cost in Metro Detroit? +

Seamless aluminum gutters typically cost $8-$12 per linear foot installed in Southeast Michigan, including hangers and downspouts. For an average 150-foot system (typical for a 1,500-square-foot ranch), expect to pay $1,200-$1,800. Prices increase if fascia repair is needed or if you choose 6-inch gutters or premium materials like copper. Get at least three quotes, but remember: the cheapest bid usually means shortcuts on materials, hanger spacing, or installation quality.

How long does gutter installation take? +

Most residential gutter installations take one day for an experienced crew. A typical single-story home (150-200 linear feet) takes 4-6 hours. Two-story homes or complex rooflines may take a full day or slightly longer. If fascia repair is required, add another half-day to a full day depending on the extent of damage. Weather delays are common in Michigan—spring and fall are the busiest seasons, so plan ahead.

Should I get gutter guards? +

It depends on your property. If you have a lot of mature trees (especially oaks or maples that drop leaves, seeds, and helicopters), gutter guards can reduce cleaning frequency. But they're not maintenance-free—debris still accumulates on top and needs to be brushed off. We've written a detailed guide on who benefits from gutter guards in Michigan. The short version: they're worth it if you have significant tree coverage and don't want to clean gutters 3-4 times a year. If your property has minimal trees, skip them and clean twice a year instead.

What size gutters do I need? +

Most homes in Metro Detroit use 5-inch K-style gutters. But 6-inch gutters are better if you have a steep roof pitch (7/12 or steeper), a large roof area (2,500+ square feet), or live in an area with heavy rainfall. A contractor should calculate your roof's square footage and pitch before recommending a size. If they guess or default to 5-inch without measuring, they're not doing their job. Undersized gutters overflow during heavy rain, which defeats the entire purpose of having gutters.

How often should gutters be cleaned in Michigan? +

Twice a year minimum: once in late fall after leaves drop, and once in spring after seeds and debris accumulate. If you have a lot of trees, add a mid-summer cleaning. Clogged gutters cause overflow, ice dams, and basement water problems—especially in Michigan where freeze-thaw cycles amplify every issue. If you're not comfortable on a ladder, hire a professional. It's cheaper than fixing water damage.

Do gutters come in colors? +

Yes. Aluminum gutters come in a wide range of factory-baked enamel colors to match your trim, siding, or roof. Common colors in Southeast Michigan include white, almond, bronze, black, and various shades of gray and brown. The color is baked on at the factory, so it won't peel or fade like paint. Most contractors stock white and a few popular colors; custom colors may require a special order and add 1-2 weeks to the timeline.

What causes gutters to pull away from the house? +

Three main causes: (1) hangers spaced too far apart (more than 24 inches), so the system can't handle snow and ice weight; (2) rotted fascia that can't hold screws anymore; (3) clogged gutters that filled with water and ice, creating excessive weight. In Michigan, all three issues are common. The fix depends on the cause: tighten or add hangers, replace fascia, or install a properly spaced system. If a contractor just screws the gutters back up without addressing the underlying problem, they'll pull away again within a year.