Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
While gutter guards aren't always needed, indicators of congested gutters are typically clear. Signs of chronic gutter problems include:
- Leaky seams or joints where water leaks out of gutters
- Mold growth, peeling exterior paint, or interior water stains on walls near gutters.
- Soggy ground or visible erosion patterns around your home's foundation
- Frequent clogs that cause overflow and water to spill over gutters
- Visibly damaged, sagging, or misaligned gutters that no longer correctly direct rainwater
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
Companies with extensive gutter guard installation experience that have worked with many different styles and models will know how to measure accurately and attach guards to your home’s unique dimensions. Get in touch with these providers to find out about their experience and ask for local references.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Always verify professional gutter guard installers are licensed, bonded, and hold workers compensation and general liability insurance. 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 installers that provide leading trusted gutter guard brands such as Gutter Helmet and LeafFilter. Steer clear of companies that only offer their own off-brand products or generic no-name guards. These lesser-known products may not have gone through rigorous quality testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For superior performance, gutter guards should have to be measured and fitted on-site to match your gutters. Pick a company that takes custom measurements and trims guards for your home instead of using one-size options. Properly-fitted guards prevent debris-trapping gaps from forming.
Examine Warranties
High-quality gutter guard companies normally offer 20-year or lifetime warranties that protect against rust, clogs, leaks, and other issues. Before selecting a company, carefully read through the warranty terms for materials and workmanship guarantees. Warranties are the best means of protecting your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Be sure to check online reviews on sites like Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or Yelp to see what customers say about their experience. You can also ask your neighbors to suggest quality gutter guard businesses near you. When researching potential providers, it's best to opt for companies with positive reviews consistently over time rather than just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are six most common types of gutter guards. These include the following:
- Foam guards are large pieces of foam that rest in your gutters to stop debris. They're light and easy to install. On average, you can expect to pay $2.46 per linear foot for foam guards.
- Brush guards are just what they sound like: large brush bristles that sit in your gutters and block debris but let water through. Brush guards cost around $4.05 per linear foot.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water to pass through while keeping debris out. On average, you can expect to spend $4.43 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. On average, you can expect to spend $4.16 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards are normally the most effective. They have smaller holes than regular mesh guards and allow even less debris through. Micro-mesh guards cost around $5.24 per linear foot.
- Surface tension guards, also called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to let water flow into your gutters while debris slides off. Normally, they will be visible from the ground. Surface tension guards cost around $3.25 per linear foot.
