Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
While gutter guards aren't always necessary, indicators of backed up gutters are clear. Issues stemming from persistent gutter problems include:
- Soggy ground or visible erosion patterns around your home's foundation
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over gutters
- Visibly saggy, damaged, or misaligned gutters that no longer direct rainwater correctly
- Mold growth, peeling exterior paint, or interior water stains on walls near gutters.
- Leaky joints or seams where water leaks from the gutters
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
Companies with years of gutter guard installation experience that have worked with various styles and models will know how to take accurate measurements and install guards to your home’s unique dimensions. Reach out to these providers to learn about their experience and ask for local references.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Verify that the companies you're considering have valid licensing, bonds, general liability insurance, and workers compensation coverage. This protects you in case of any injury or accident that could arise. Ask potential providers for current licensing and insurance papers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Look for reputable gutter guard brands such as LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet when selecting an installer. Avoid generic no-name or off-brand guards, which likely have not gone through rigorous quality control testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For optimal performance, gutter guards need custom measurements and trimming on-site to match your gutters. Pick a company that takes specific measurements and trims guards for your home instead of using universal guards. Well-fitted guards avoid debris-trapping gaps.
Examine Warranties
High-quality gutter guard companies typically offer 20-year or lifetime warranties for clogs, rust, leaks, and other issues. Before picking a company, carefully read through the warranty terms for workmanship and materials guarantees. Warranties are the most effective way to protect your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Be sure to check online reviews on sites such as Google Reviews, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to learn more about customer experiences. You can also ask your neighbors for recommendations on quality gutter guard businesses in your area. When researching potential providers, it's best to opt for companies with consistently good reviews rather than just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are six typical types of gutter guards. These include the following:
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that sit inside your gutters, blocking debris while allowing water to pass through. On average, you can expect to spend $4.04 per linear foot for brush guards.
- Foam guards consist of pieces of foam that sit in your gutters to stop debris. They're light and easy to install. On average, you can expect to spend $2.46 per linear foot for foam guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water through while blocking debris. On average, you can expect to pay $4.28 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 $4.05 per linear foot.
- Micro-mesh guards are typically the most effective. They have smaller holes than standard mesh guards, which allows even less debris through. On average, you can expect to pay $5.13 per linear foot for micro-mesh guards.
- Surface tension guards, also called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to let water flow into gutters while debris slides off. Normally, they can be seen from the ground. On average, you can expect to spend $3.15 per linear foot for surface tension guards.
