Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
While gutter guards aren't always necessary, indicators of obstructed gutters are clear. Some indicators of persistent gutter problems include:
- Mold growth, interior wall stains, or peeling exterior paint on walls near gutters.
- Soggy ground or visible erosion around your foundation
- Visibly damaged, sagging, or misaligned gutters that no longer direct rainwater correctly
- Leaky seams or joints where water leaks from the gutters
- Frequent clogs that cause overflow and water to spill over gutters
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
The right installation company will have extensive experience, including multiple years in business and experience with numerous brands and models. Experienced companies can properly take measurements and fit gutter guards to meet your distinct needs. Inquire about how long a company has been providing installations and request referrals from local customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Always ensure professional gutter guard installers are properly licensed, bonded, and hold workers compensation and general liability insurance. This protects you from liability for any accidents or injuries that might happen. Ask to see current licensing and insurance papers when communicating with potential providers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Look for companies that provide highly reputable gutter guard brands like Gutter Helmet and LeafFilter. Avoid companies that offer only generic no-name guards or their own off-brands, which may lack rigorous testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For optimal performance, gutter guards need to be measured and trimmed on-site to match your specific gutter setup. Choose a company that custom measures and trims guards specifically for your home, rather than using universal guards. Correctly fitted guards will leave no gaps for debris to get stuck.
Examine Warranties
High-quality gutter guard companies typically offer 20-year or lifetime warranties covering clogs, leaks, rust, and other problems. Before picking a company, carefully review the warranty terms for workmanship and materials guarantees. Warranties are an excellent way to protect 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 to suggest companies that provide quality local gutter guard installation. When researching, look for providers with plenty of satisfied customers rather than only one or two sporadic reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
The six typical gutter guard types are as follows:
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that are installed in your gutters, stopping debris while allowing water to pass through. Brush guards cost around $4.03 per linear foot.
- Foam guards are lightweight and easy to install. The foam collects debris and keeps it out of your gutter. Foam guards cost around $2.45 per linear foot.
- Screen guards have large holes that let water through while keeping debris out. On average, you can expect to pay $4.10 per linear foot for screen guards.
- Mesh guards stop debris but allow water to flow through. Mesh guards have even smaller holes than screen guards. They're durable and let debris slide off rather than sitting on top of the gutters. Mesh guards cost roughly $3.91 per linear foot.
- Micro-mesh guards are typically the most effective. Micro-mesh guards have smaller holes than standard mesh guards, which allows even less debris through. On average, you can expect to spend $5.00 per linear foot for micro-mesh guards.
- Surface tension guards, also called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to encourage water to flow into gutters while debris slides off. Normally, they can be seen from the ground. On average, you can expect to pay $3.03 per linear foot for surface tension guards.
