Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Although gutter guards aren't always required, indicators of blocked gutters are typically clear. Signs of ongoing gutter problems include:
- Visibly saggy, damaged, or misaligned gutters that no longer correctly direct rainwater
- Frequent clogs that cause overflow and water to spill over gutters
- Soggy ground or visible erosion patterns around your home's foundation
- Leaky joints or seams where water leaks from the gutters
- Mold growth, interior wall stains, or peeling exterior paint on walls near gutters.
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
When picking an installation company, look for one with considerable experience and knowledge about various brands and guard types. A company with experience will understand how to measure and fit gutter guards for your specific needs. Check a provider's years of experience and request referrals from local customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Always verify your gutter guard installers are properly licensed, bonded, and hold 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 communicating with potential providers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Look for companies that carry leading gutter guard brands like LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet. Avoid companies that offer only generic no-name guards or their own off-brands, which may lack rigorous testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For superior performance, gutter guards need to be sized and cut 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
Top gutter guard companies are typically backed by 20-year or lifetime warranties that cover rust, clogs, leaks, and other defects. Before picking a provider, read over its warranty terms on materials and workmanship guarantees. Warranties are the best way to protect your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
It's a good idea to look at online reviews on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and other review sites to learn about customer experiences. Ask neighbors to recommend quality local gutter guard companies. When researching providers, you should choose companies with consistent positive feedback instead of just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
The six primary types of gutter guards include the following:
- Foam guards are large pieces of foam that rest in your gutters to catch debris. They're light and easy to install. On average, you can expect to pay $2.43 per linear foot for foam guards.
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that partially obstruct your gutters, catching debris and allowing water to pass through. Brush guards cost roughly $4.01 per linear foot.
- Screen guards have large holes that let water through while blocking debris. On average, you can expect to pay $3.57 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 as opposed to sitting on top of your gutters. Mesh guards cost roughly $3.50 per linear foot.
- Micro-mesh guards are generally the most effective. They have smaller holes than regular mesh guards and allow even less debris through. Micro-mesh guards cost roughly $4.63 per linear foot.
- Surface tension guards, sometimes called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to let debris slide off while water flows into the gutter. They are often visible from the ground. Surface tension guards cost roughly $2.66 per linear foot.