Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Although gutter guards aren't always required, indicators of blocked gutters are usually clear. Signs of chronic gutter issues include:
- Frequent clogs that cause overflow and water to spill over gutters
- Mold growth, peeling exterior paint, or interior water stains on walls near gutters.
- Leaky seams or joints where water leaks from the gutters
- Soggy ground or visible erosion patterns around your home's foundation
- Visibly damaged, sagging, or misaligned gutters that no longer direct rainwater correctly
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
When selecting an installation company, look for one with extensive experience and knowledge about numerous brands and guard types. An experienced company will understand how to measure and fit gutter guards for your specific needs. Check a company's years of experience and request referrals from local customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Verify that the companies you're considering have valid licenses, bonding, workers compensation coverage, and general liability insurance. 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 companies that carry tenured and trustworthy gutter guard brands like LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet. Avoid companies that offer only their own off-brands or generic no-name guards, which may not have undergone rigorous quality control testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For the best performance, guards should be sized and trimmed on-site to fit your gutters. Choose a company that specifically measures and trims guards for your home rather than using universal guards. Accurately fitted guards minimize gaps where debris can get trapped.
Examine Warranties
High-quality gutter guard installers are typically backed by 20-year or lifetime warranties covering clogs, rust, leaks, and other defects. Before selecting a provider, read over its warranty terms on materials and workmanship 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 Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and other review sites to learn about customer experiences. Ask neighbors to recommend quality local gutter guard companies. When researching providers, it's best to select companies with consistent positive feedback instead of just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
The six primary 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. Foam guards cost roughly $2.46 per linear foot.
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that are installed in your gutters, allowing water to pass through while blocking debris. On average, you can expect to spend $4.04 per linear foot for brush guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water to pass through while blocking debris. On average, you can expect to spend $4.32 per linear foot for screen guards.
- Mesh guards stop debris but allow water to flow 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 the gutters. On average, you can expect to spend $4.08 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards are generally the most effective. They have smaller holes than regular mesh guards, which allows even less debris through. On average, you can expect to pay $5.16 per linear foot for micro-mesh guards.
- Surface tension guards, sometimes called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to let debris slide off while water flows into the gutter. They can usually be seen from the ground. Surface tension guards cost roughly $3.18 per linear foot.