Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Although gutter guards aren't always needed, indicators of blocked gutters are typically clear. Signs of ongoing gutter problems include:
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over gutters
- Visibly saggy, damaged, or misaligned gutters that no longer correctly direct rainwater
- Mold growth, peeling exterior paint, or interior water stains on walls near gutters.
- Leaky seams or joints where water leaks from the gutters
- Soggy ground or visible erosion patterns around your foundation
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
The right installation company will have ample experience, including multiple years in business and experience with several brands and models. Companies with experience can properly measure and fit gutter guards to meet your distinct needs. Inquire about how long a company has been performing installations and request referrals from local customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Always verify your gutter guard installers are properly licensed, bonded, and have general liability insurance and workers compensation. This protects you from liability for any accidents or injuries that could occur. Ask to see current licensing and insurance papers when speaking to potential providers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Seek out companies that provide leading reputable gutter guard brands such as LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet. Be wary of companies only offering generic no-name or their own off-brand guards, as these likely have not undergone the same rigorous testing as major brands.
Seek Custom Fit Services
Gutter guards should be measured and trimmed on-site to match your gutters. Pick a company that custom measures and trims guards for your house rather than using one-size-fits-all guards. Guards fitted for your home leave no gaps for debris accumulation.
Examine Warranties
Leading gutter guard installers often offer 20-year or lifetime warranties that protect against clogs, leaks, rust, and other issues. When choosing a company, read through the warranty details for both workmanship and materials guarantees. Warranties give you the best protection for your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Take some time to look at online reviews on Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and other review sites to read customer feedback. Ask neighbors which companies they recommend for quality local gutter guard installation. When researching, look for providers with a history of steady positive reviews rather than just a single recommendation.
Types of Gutter Guards
The six typical types of gutter guards are as follows:
- Brush guards are exactly what they sound like: large brush bristles that sit in your gutters to block debris but let water through. Brush guards cost around $4.04 per linear foot.
- Foam guards are light and easy to install. With this type of guard, debris lands on the foam instead of in your gutter. On average, you can expect to pay $2.46 per linear foot for foam guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water through while stopping debris. On average, you can expect to pay $4.27 per linear foot for screen guards.
- Mesh guards stop debris but let water through. Mesh guards have even smaller holes than screen guards. They're durable and encourage debris to slide off as opposed to sitting on top of the gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $4.04 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards have even smaller holes than mesh guards, allowing even less debris through than mesh. They are very effective. Micro-mesh guards cost around $5.13 per linear foot.
- Surface tension guards, also called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to encourage water to flow into gutters while debris slides off. Normally, they will be visible from the ground. Surface tension guards cost roughly $3.15 per linear foot.
