Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
While gutter guards aren't always required, the symptoms of blocked gutters are typically clear. Signs of ongoing gutter issues include:
- Frequent clogs that cause overflow and water to spill over gutters
- Visibly saggy, damaged, or misaligned gutters that no longer correctly direct rainwater
- Soggy ground or visible erosion around your house's foundation
- Leaky seams or joints where water leaks from the gutters
- Mold growth, peeling exterior paint, or interior water stains on walls near gutters.
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
When picking an installation company, look for one with years of experience and knowledge about many brands and guard types. An experienced company will understand how to measure and install gutter guards for your specific needs. Inquire about a company's years of experience and request referrals from local customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Confirm that the companies you're considering have valid licenses, bonding, workers compensation coverage, and general liability insurance. This shields you in case of any injury or accident that could arise. Ask potential providers for current licensing and insurance papers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Seek out companies that provide leading reputable gutter guard brands such as Gutter Helmet and LeafFilter. Be wary of companies that only carry generic no-name or their own off-brand guards, as these likely do not have the same rigorous testing as reputable national brands.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For optimal performance, gutter guards need to be measured and trimmed on-site to match your unique gutter setup. Select a company that uniquely sizes and cuts guards specifically for your home, rather than using one-size-fits-all guards. Properly fitted guards will leave no gaps for debris to get stuck.
Examine Warranties
Leading gutter guard companies typically offer 20-year or lifetime warranties for leaks, rust, clogs, and other issues. Before picking a company, carefully review the warranty terms for materials and workmanship guarantees. Warranties are an excellent means of protecting your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Be sure to check online reviews on sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see what customers say about their experience. You can also ask your neighbors for recommendations on quality gutter guard businesses near you. When researching potential providers, it's best to opt for companies with a history of consistent positive feedback rather than just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
The six typical gutter guard types include the following:
- Foam guards are lightweight and easy to install. This type of guard catches debris on the foam and keeps it out of your gutter. On average, you can expect to spend $2.44 per linear foot for foam guards.
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that partially obstruct your gutters, allowing water to pass through while blocking debris. On average, you can expect to pay $4.01 per linear foot for brush guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water through while stopping debris. On average, you can expect to spend $3.62 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 allow debris to slide off rather than sitting on top of the gutters. Mesh guards cost around $3.54 per linear foot.
- Micro-mesh guards have even smaller holes than mesh guards, allowing even less debris through than mesh. These types of guards are extremely effective. On average, you can expect to pay $4.67 per linear foot for micro-mesh guards.
- Surface tension guards, sometimes called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to allow debris to slide off while water flows through into the gutter. They are normally visible from the ground. On average, you can expect to pay $2.70 per linear foot for surface tension guards.
