A quality gutter guard can extend the life of your gutter system and lead to less time and money spent on routine maintenance. Here, we’ve outlined two of the business’s top gutter protection and maintenance providers. Both LeafFilter and LeafGuard have lengthy track records of helping homeowners with their unique brands of gutter protection systems. Read on to learn more about these top-ranked gutter guards, and their costs, gutter guard materials, warranties, and more.
LeafFilter vs. LeafGuard: Which Is Better?
LeafFilter and LeafGuard are two leaders in the gutter and gutter guard industry. Although both offer full-service gutter guard installation, each offers a different product and gutter guard system.
LeafFilter’s three-piece system is durable, made from micro-mesh steel, and is not prone to corrosion or rust. In addition to gutter guard installation, the company also provides full cleaning and sealing services for existing gutters.
Depending on the damage to your existing system, this could be a more cost-effective option, virtually eliminating the cost to clean your clean your gutters. Read our in-depth review of LeafFilter to get a better idea of the material used, costs, warranties, and installation options.
LeafFilter was ranked #1 gutter guards for pine needles in our review and earned 4.8 stars in our in-depth comparison process, while LeafGuard scored 4.4 stars.
LeafGuard’s one-piece design is a leading choice for more heavily-damaged or less-functional gutters. When you get a quote from this provider, the price will include the removal of old gutters, new installation, and future maintenance. Read our full LeafGuard review to learn more about materials, services, costs, and more.
To fully gauge your best option, we encourage you to get quotes from each provider in your area before committing.
LeafFilter vs. LeafGuard: Facts and Figures
Here, we’ve included a snapshot comparison of LeafFilter and LeafGuard. Each company comes highly recommended via an A+ BBB rating and excellent customer reviews.
| Provider | LeafFilter | LeafGuard |
| Quote | Get a quote | Get a quote |
| Gutter guard options | Three-piece micro-mesh screen with uPVC frame and hidden structural hangers | One-piece aluminum reverse-curve with hidden hangers |
| Cost | $17-$45 per linear foot | $11-$37 |
| State availability | 44 States (not available in Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Arizona, Hawaii, and Alaska) | 36 States (not available in Alaska, Arizona, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, West Virginia, and Wyoming) |
| BBB Rating | A+ | A+ |
| Years in business | 17 | 29 |
LeafFilter vs. LeafGuard: Services & Gutter Guard System
We’ve broken down the key similarities and differences between these two leading providers. We hope that your decision-making process will be far more straightforward with this information in hand.
Who Offers Better Gutter Services?
Of the two companies, LeafFilter is our top pick for professional gutter services. Below is a breakdown of each companies’ offerings.
LeafFilter
From the initial estimate and inspection phase, LeafFilter’s professionals will handle everything for you through installation. Unlike what some other gutter guard companies offer, the LeafFilter system is able to be installed on existing gutters, and if your gutters aren’t in working condition, LeafFilter also replaces gutters.
LeafFilter offers a warranty with the slogan “Clog Free. Guaranteed.” LeafFilter’s system vows to keep out shingle grit, pine needles, seed pods, and more. When put to the test by our experts, LeafFilter’s system proved to be durable withstanding heavy rainfall and the simulated debris in our product testing. The uPVC frame didn’t warp, nor did the micro-mesh screen. For those worried about debris from the surrounding environment, we recommend going with LeafFilter.
LeafGuard
LeafGuard provides its own proprietary brand of one-piece aluminum gutter guards. Their slogan “Get it. And forget it.” conveys the simplicity of the design they’ve patented and the ease of maintenance after the fact. Under LeafGuard’s limited lifetime warranty, you’ll be in line for free maintenance and adjustments if your one-piece system does not work as intended.
Who Offers the Best Gutter Guard Product?
Although LeafGuard’s product is a close second, we picked LeafFilter as the better version. Here’s a breakdown of the gutter guard specs each company provides.
LeafFilter Gutter Guard
This provider’s three-piece system allows unrestricted water flow while maintaining clean gutters. LeafFilter’s gutter guards are also less noticeable from the ground and blend in better with your roof and existing gutters.
You’ll get professional installation for the following components:
- Steel micromesh screen: The surgical-grade stainless steel keeps even the smallest debris out with its 275-micron fine micromesh screens. Leaves, pine needles, small branches, and even shingle grit will be kept away from your gutters and downspouts.
- uPVC frame: This provides full support for your micromesh screen at the top of the gutter while still allowing for unrestricted water flow.
- Structural hangers: Well-placed hangers on the insides of your gutters will keep the entire system fully secure and in place.
- Surface tension: The built-in pitch of LeafFilter’s gutter guard creates surface tension that allows water to flow into the gutter while debris stays out.
LeafGuard Gutter Guard
LeafGuard’s design employs an aluminum shell that is 20% thicker than industry standards. Non-corrosive brackets fasten directly into your fascia board every two feet to ensure that no matter what types of debris may fall on your roof or directly on your gutters, your LeafGuard system will be up to the task. LeafGuards gutter guards have the following components
- Aluminum reverse-curve/surface tension: The aluminum reverse-curse design allows the gutter guard to handle heavy rainfall — up to 32 inches per hour — and resist the buildup of pine needles, leaves, branches, and other debris.
- Hidden hangers: The gutter guards are installed with fitted hidden hangers every two feet for support. Leaf Guard also installs the hidden hangers away from roof shingles to prevent damage.
- ScratchGuard® paint: This finish is a patented paint that prevents the peeling, chipping, and cracking of your gutter guards.
- Custom-fitting: LeafGuard’s gutter guards are custom-fit to any size gutter, ensuring its system is compatible with any home.
Large downspouts make LeafGuard gutters even more resistant to clogs. No matter the pitch or construction of your roof, this system can provide a solution.
LeafFilter vs. LeafGuard: Who Has the Best Cost?
The purchase of any LeafFilter gutter protection begins with a no-obligation estimate. Once you schedule online, a qualified technician will come to your home and inspect your existing system to render an accurate gutter guard and install cost.
Whether you just need gutter covers or an entire micro-mesh gutter guard system, your pricing quote will include all labor to ensure that it lives up to its lifetime warranty. Gutter systems are priced mainly by linear feet, so you’ll have to have a customer service representative visually inspect your home for an accurate estimate.
LeafFilter Cost
LeafFilter’s pricing is generally more affordable than LeafGuard. The average full system replacement from LeafFilter will cost between $2,600 and $6,300, or $17-$45 per linear foot. LeafFilter’s gutter guard installation costs vary widely based on home location, roof size, accessibility, the number of stories in a home, and the additional cost of downspouts or new gutters.
LeafGuard Cost
LeafGuard employees sent to your home will provide this service for free and offer a free demonstration of the liquid adhesion principle by which these gutter guards work. The combined cost of labor and materials per linear foot for LeafGuard installation can range from $10 up to $30 or more. This means that costs can easily approach and exceed $2,000 at a minimum and reach up to $7,500. The gutter guard system ranges from $17-$37 per linear foot, but this price includes materials and labor.
LeafFilter vs. LeafGuard: Who Has the Best Reviews?
We analyzed hundreds of positive and negative reviews for each company to get a sense of the common themes across them and what the general consensus is from homeowners who have bought their products. We found that LeafFilter has higher ratings and a higher volume of reviews on platforms like TrustPilot and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
LeafFilter Reviews
Gerard B’s repairs to his existing gutters went about as well as he could have hoped:
“They installed my gutters in March 2021 after a snowstorm ( I live on Mt Hood) took my old gutters down. I had another snowstorm, and the gutters did not come off the house but did pull away a little bit. Called them, and they sent Joe out to look at them, and he said I will fix them while I’m here. He repaired the gutters while he was here, and they are even stronger than before.”
Betsy’s quote process and installation of a gutter guard system both went incredibly well:
“I had LeafFilter come out and install the devices on most of my gutters today. From the quoting process to the install completion it was a really good experience. I do recommend these folks. I see there are a lot of poor reviews here, however, I have experience with these on the east coast and really would not choose any other product. So I took a chance to keep a close eye on the project.
These guys were top-notch. My only advice is to ensure you demand a lower price and get any discounts they can offer you.
I was called for an on-site quote within a day of my request. A really super friendly and knowledgeable salesman, Olu, came promptly at the agreed-upon time. He walked me thru the options. Offered senior discounts and other creative options to reduce costs. After a bit of negotiation, we arrived at an agreement on the price. He was a really nice guy who seemed very reputable.
The very next day, Richard arrived to install my guards. Richard was very knowledgeable of gutters and the guards. He was awesome. High quality work. Much better than expected actually. Richard went above and beyond to restore my aging gutters and ensure proper install.
I could not be happier. I hope folks give these guys a chance to change their ratings here. My experience was by far better than any others noted here.”
LeafGuard Reviews
Melinda’s experience with LeafGuard was a bit of a mixed bag, with her gutter cleaning and temporary removal not going as smoothly as she would’ve hoped:
“We have had our LeafGuard gutters for several years now. They do need to be cleaned out. We had them come out and clean them per their ads. When the guys came out to clean them, they didn’t go a good job at all. We still had black sludge left in our gutters. We had to call them another time, needing to take our gutters down so our house could be painted. They charged us $400 to take the gutters down and another $400 to hang them back up. I would have preferred to have regular gutters placed on our house, I think. Most of the staff I have spoken with have been friendly.”
Lisa reported on the excellent customer service she received via BBB:
“I was having an issue with clogging in one of the LeafGuard gutter runs (installed by a different company no longer doing business). I called LeafGuard, and the supervisor, Jesse K***** from LeafGuard, came out and evaluated the LeafGuard gutter system and proposed a resolution to resolve the problem. As he promised, he sent installers out to take care of it promptly and professionally. I highly recommend Jesse of the LeafGuard team! I am awaiting a new part (which was back ordered due to supply chain issues) but am confident it will be taken care of as soon as the part comes in. It’s refreshing to have a company that stands by its products and works hard to keep customers happy. Thank you, Jesse and LeafGuard!”
Final Verdict: Which is Better, LeafFilter or LeafGuard?
Having a quality gutter guard system installed is a vital step toward extending the life of your roof and foundation and decreasing the overall amount of maintenance you’ll need while you live in your current home. The best gutter guard companies provide comprehensive warranties, which help you if maintenance or replacement is needed.
The above gutter guards — LeafGuard and LeafFilter — are both excellent choices. LeafGuard’s one-piece construction is ideal for full-scale gutter replacements, while LeafFilter’s multi-piece system can be installed on existing gutter systems. However, based on our review of each, we recommend LeafFilter as the best option for most situations.
FAQs about LeafFilter vs LeafGuard
Do gutter guards prevent ice dams?
Gutter guards have far less of an effect on this than roof quality or insulation. Gutter clogs, coupled with poor insulation and ventilation, can cause ice dams. Installing quality guards will help extend the life of your roof by diverting even heavy rain away from your home.
Are there any viable DIY solutions for installing new gutters?
Of course, DIY gutter installation can be done with the right tools. However, given the injury risk posed by working at such heights on a ladder, we highly recommend going to professionals.
Will I still have to clean my gutters if I get a gutter guard installed?
Professionally-installed gutter guards will come with warranties, which should cover any associated maintenance or cleaning. If your gutter guards are high-quality, they should keep even small debris out of your gutters. The advantage of going to a professional for this service is the maintenance and cleaning services they provide.
Our Gutter Guard Testing Method
At Today's Homeowner, we value transparency and authenticity when it comes to rating any of the products we review. For each DIY gutter guard option, we purchased sample packs and installed them at our facility. Eight feet of each gutter guard was installed on our five-inch gutters and was tested for a full week under harsh conditions.
We replicated these by loading the tops of our gutters with the following types of debris while subjecting them to periodic heavy rainfall (greater than 50 mm per hour). The debris below was loaded on at a weight not to exceed eight ounces per foot, by the percentages listed.
- Hay (30%): Dried hay was meant to replicate the weight and consistency of dry leaves and smaller sticks that could fall onto gutters in any location. Most of this would simply roll off the gutters at the start of any simulated rainfall, and would not pose an issue for most gutter guards.
- Mulch (45%): Cedar mulch is a bit weightier and of more mixed consistency. This would affect any non-micro-mesh gutter guards, as the varied texture would be troublesome when coupled with wet conditions.
- Screened Top Soil (25%): Screened top soil (no more than two ounces per foot) would simulate shingle grit, pollen, and any other small granulated debris which could accumulate on gutters.
Each of our gutter guards was tested outdoors for a full week with the above debris piled on. In addition to natural elements, we simulated heavy rainfall (50 mm per hour) on each for at least two periods of two hours to ensure proper water flow for the duration of testing.
