Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Although gutter guards aren't always needed, indicators of blocked gutters are usually clear. Signs of ongoing gutter problems include:
- Visibly saggy, damaged, or misaligned gutters that no longer correctly direct rainwater
- Mold growth, interior wall stains, or peeling exterior paint on walls near gutters.
- Soggy ground or visible erosion patterns around your home's foundation
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over gutters
- 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 company that has been in business for many years and has installed a wide variety of guard types and models. These companies know how to properly measure and handle the installation of gutter guards on your unique home setup. Inquire how long they’ve been installing guards and request local referrals.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Always confirm your gutter guard installers are properly licensed, bonded, and hold general liability insurance and workers compensation. This protects you from liability for any injuries or accidents that might happen. Ask to see current licensing and insurance papers when speaking to potential providers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Look for installers that provide tenured trusted gutter guard brands such as LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet. Steer clear of companies that only install generic no-name guards or their own off-brand products. 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. Select a company that takes specific measurements and trims guards for your house instead of using generic guards. Properly-fitted guards prevent debris-trapping gaps from forming.
Examine Warranties
Leading gutter guard installers typically offer 20-year or lifetime warranties for rust, leaks, clogs, and other problems. Before selecting a company, carefully review the warranty terms for materials and workmanship guarantees. Warranties are an excellent way to protect your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
You should check online reviews on sites such as Google Reviews, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to learn about customer experiences. You can also ask neighbors for recommendations on quality local gutter guard companies. When researching providers, we'd recommend going for companies with a history of good reviews instead of just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
The six most common types of gutter guards include the following:
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that are installed in your gutters, allowing water to pass through while stopping debris. On average, you can expect to spend $4.08 per linear foot for brush guards.
- 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 $2.48 per linear foot.
- Screen guards have large holes that let water through while blocking debris. On average, you can expect to spend $4.99 per linear foot for screen guards.
- Mesh guards have smaller holes than screen guards and similarly stop debris while allowing water to filter through. They are durable and let debris slide off rather than sit on top of your gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $4.60 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards have even smaller holes than mesh guards and let even less debris through than mesh. These types of guards are extremely effective. Micro-mesh guards cost around $5.64 per linear foot.
- Surface tension guards, also called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to encourage water to flow into your gutters while debris slides off. Typically, they will be visible from the ground. Surface tension guards cost roughly $3.64 per linear foot.
