Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Although gutter guards aren't always needed, indicators of congested gutters are usually clear. Signs of chronic gutter issues include:
- Visibly saggy, damaged, or misaligned gutters that no longer correctly direct rainwater
- Leaky joints or seams where water leaks from the gutters
- Mold growth, interior wall stains, or peeling exterior paint on walls near gutters.
- Soggy ground or visible erosion around your foundation
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over gutters
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 numerous brands and models. Companies with experience can properly take measurements and fit gutter guards to meet your distinct needs. Inquire about how long a company has been performing installations and request referrals from nearby customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Check that the companies you're considering have valid licensing, bonding, general liability insurance, and workers compensation coverage. This protects you in case of any incidents that could arise. Ask potential providers for current licensing and insurance papers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Seek out companies that carry tenured and trusted gutter guard brands such as LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet. Be wary of companies that only carry 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 optimal performance, gutter guards need to be measured and trimmed on-site to match your specific gutter setup. Pick a company that custom measures and trims guards specifically for your home, rather than using universal guards. Correctly fitted guards will leave no gaps for debris to get stuck.
Examine Warranties
Leading gutter guard companies typically offer 20-year or lifetime warranties for leaks, clogs, rust, and other problems. Before picking a company, carefully review the warranty terms for materials and workmanship guarantees. Warranties are an excellent means of protecting your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Take some time to look at online reviews on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, or Yelp to learn about customer experiences. You can also ask neighbors to suggest quality local gutter guard companies. When researching providers, you should opt for companies with consistently positive or good feedback instead of just a single review.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are six typical gutter guard types. These include the following:
- Foam guards are light and easy to install. This type of guard catches debris on the foam and keeps it out of your gutter. Foam guards cost around $2.46 per linear foot.
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that sit inside your gutters, allowing water to pass through while catching debris. Brush guards cost roughly $4.04 per linear foot.
- Screen guards have large holes that let water flow through while stopping debris. Screen guards cost roughly $4.31 per linear foot.
- Mesh guards stop debris but allow water to flow through. Mesh guards have even smaller holes than screen guards. They're durable and let debris slide off rather than sitting on top of the gutters. Mesh guards cost around $4.07 per linear foot.
- Micro-mesh guards are typically the most effective. They have smaller holes than regular mesh guards and let even less debris through. On average, you can expect to pay $5.15 per linear foot for micro-mesh guards.
- Surface tension guards, also called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to allow water to flow into your gutter system while debris slides off. Normally, they can be seen from the ground. On average, you can expect to pay $3.17 per linear foot for surface tension guards.
