Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Gutter guards aren’t always necessary, but the signs of blocked and overflowing gutters are clear. Signals of chronic gutter issues include:
- 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.
- Frequent clogs that cause overflow and water to spill over gutters
- Soggy ground or visible erosion around your house's foundation
- Leaky joints or seams where water leaks out of gutters
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
Look for an experienced gutter guard installation provider that has been in business for several years and has installed various guard brands and models. These companies know how to properly take measurements and install gutter guards on your unique home setup. Inquire how long they’ve been installing guards and request local referrals.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Confirm that any businesses you're considering are properly licensed, bonded, and insured, holding both workers compensation and general liability protection. This shields you from liability for potential injuries and accidents. Request current licensing and insurance papers from any potential providers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Seek out companies that provide tenured and trusted gutter guard brands such as LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet. Be wary of companies only offering 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 ideal performance, gutter guards need to be measured and trimmed on-site to match your unique gutter setup. Pick a company that custom measures and trims 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 installers often offer 20-year or lifetime warranties covering leaks, clogs, rust, and other defects. Before picking a provider, read over its warranty terms for materials and workmanship guarantees. Warranties are the most effective way to protect your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Take some time to look at online reviews on Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and other review sites to see customer feedback. Ask neighbors to suggest companies that provide quality local gutter guard installation. When researching, look for providers with consistently good feedback rather than only one or two sporadic reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are six typical gutter guard types. These include the following:
- Foam guards are lightweight and easy to install. Debris collects on the foam instead of in your gutter. On average, you can expect to spend $2.46 per linear foot for foam guards.
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that sit inside your gutters, catching debris while allowing water to pass through. Brush guards cost roughly $4.04 per linear foot.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water through while keeping out debris. Screen guards cost roughly $4.28 per linear foot.
- Mesh guards stop debris but let water through. Mesh guards have even smaller holes than screen guards. They're durable and let debris slide off as opposed to sitting on top of your gutters. On average, you can expect to spend $4.05 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards have even smaller holes than mesh guards, letting even less debris into your gutters than mesh. They are extremely effective. Micro-mesh guards cost around $5.13 per linear foot.
- Surface tension guards, sometimes called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to allow debris to slide off while water flows into the gutter. They can usually be seen from the ground. Surface tension guards cost roughly $3.15 per linear foot.
