Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Gutter guards aren’t always needed, but symptoms of overflowing and clogged gutters are clear. Here are some signals of chronic gutter issues:
- Leaky seams or joints where water leaks from the gutters
- Soggy ground or visible erosion around your home's foundation
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over gutters
- Mold growth, peeling exterior paint, or interior water stains on walls near gutters.
- Visibly damaged, sagging, or misaligned gutters that no longer direct rainwater correctly
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
The right installation company will have extensive experience, including many years in business and experience with various brands and models. Companies with experience can properly measure and install 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 verify professional gutter guard installers are licensed, bonded, and maintain workers compensation and general liability insurance. This protects you from liability for any injuries or accidents that could occur. Ask to see current licensing and insurance papers when evaluating potential providers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Look for companies that offer top gutter guard brands like LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet. Avoid companies that only install generic no-name guards or their own off-brands, which may not have gone through the same level of rigorous testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For optimal performance, gutter guards need to be measured and fitted on-site to match your gutters. Choose a company that takes specific measurements and trims guards for your house instead of using universal guards. Well-fitted guards avoid debris-trapping gaps.
Examine Warranties
Top gutter guard installers often offer 20-year or lifetime warranties that cover leaks, clogs, rust, and other defects. Before picking a provider, read over its warranty terms on workmanship and materials guarantees. Warranties are the most effective way to protect your investment into your gutters.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Take some time to research online reviews on sites such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or Yelp to learn more about customer experiences. You can also ask your neighbors to suggest 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
There are six primary gutter guard types. These include the following:
- Brush guards are exactly what they sound like: large brush bristles that sit in your gutters and let water through while catching debris. Brush guards cost roughly $4.03 per linear foot.
- Foam guards are lightweight and easy to install. With this type of guard, debris lands on the foam instead of in your gutter. Foam guards cost roughly $2.45 per linear foot.
- Screen guards have large holes that let water through while blocking debris. On average, you can expect to spend $4.01 per linear foot for screen guards.
- Mesh guards have smaller holes than screen guards and similarly stop debris while letting water flow through. These guards are durable and let debris slide off rather than sit on your gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $3.84 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards are typically the most effective. They have smaller holes than standard mesh guards and let even less debris through. On average, you can expect to pay $4.94 per linear foot for micro-mesh guards.
- Surface tension guards, also called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to encourage water to flow into your gutters while debris slides off. Normally, they can be seen from the ground. On average, you can expect to pay $2.97 per linear foot for surface tension guards.
