Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Gutter guards aren't required for all homes, but evidence of clogged gutters is clear. Signals of chronic gutter troubles are:
- Mold growth, peeling exterior paint, or interior water stains on walls near gutters.
- Leaky seams or joints where water leaks out of gutters
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over gutters
- Visibly damaged, sagging, or misaligned gutters that no longer correctly direct rainwater
- Soggy ground or visible erosion patterns around your foundation
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
When choosing an installation company, look for one with considerable experience and knowledge about numerous brands and guard types. A company with experience will understand how to measure and install gutter guards for your specific needs. Ask about a company's years of experience and request referrals from local customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Always confirm your gutter guard installers are 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 communicating with potential providers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Look for well-known gutter guard brands such as Gutter Helmet and LeafFilter when selecting an installer. Avoid generic no-name or off-brand guards, which likely lack thorough testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For optimal performance, gutter guards need custom measurements and trimming on-site to match your gutters. Select a company that takes specific measurements and trims guards for your house instead of using one-size options. Well-fitted guards avoid debris-trapping gaps.
Examine Warranties
High-quality gutter guard companies usually offer 20-year or lifetime warranties against rust, clogs, leaks, and other defects. Before choosing a provider, thoroughly review the warranty terms for both workmanship and materials guarantees. Warranties are the best way to safeguard your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
It's a good idea to research online reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and other review sites to read customer feedback. Ask neighbors which companies they recommend for quality local gutter guard installation. When researching, look for providers with plenty of satisfied customers rather than just a single recommendation.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are six most common types of gutter guards. These include the following:
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that sit inside your gutters, blocking debris and allowing water to pass through. On average, you can expect to pay $4.06 per linear foot for brush guards.
- Foam guards are light and easy to install. Debris collects on the foam instead of in your gutter. Foam guards cost around $2.47 per linear foot.
- Screen guards have large holes that let water flow through while keeping debris out. Screen guards cost roughly $4.66 per linear foot.
- Mesh guards have smaller holes than screen guards and similarly block debris while allowing water to filter through. Mesh guards are durable and help debris slide off rather than sit on top of your gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $4.34 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards have even smaller holes than mesh guards and allow even less debris through than mesh. They are very effective. On average, you can expect to spend $5.40 per linear foot for micro-mesh guards.
- Surface tension guards, also called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to encourage water to flow into gutter system while debris slides off. Typically, they will be visible from the ground. Surface tension guards cost around $3.41 per linear foot.
