Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
While gutter guards aren't always required, indicators of congested gutters are typically clear. Signs of chronic gutter problems include:
- Visibly saggy, damaged, or misaligned gutters that no longer correctly direct rainwater
- 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 around your home's 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 several brands and models. Experienced companies can properly measure and fit gutter guards to meet your distinct needs. Inquire about how long a company has been doing installations and request referrals from local customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Confirm that the companies you're considering have valid licenses, bonds, workers compensation coverage, and general liability insurance. This safeguards you in case of injuries or accidents that could arise. Ask potential providers for current licensing and insurance papers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Look for installers that offer tenured trusted gutter guard brands such as Gutter Helmet and LeafFilter. Steer clear of companies that only install their own off-brand products or generic no-name guards. These lesser-known products may not have the same level of rigorous testing as major brands.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For the best performance, guards should be measured and cut on your property to fit your gutters. Pick a company that specifically measures and trims guards for your home rather than using universal guards. Correctly fitted guards minimize gaps where debris can get trapped.
Examine Warranties
High-quality gutter guard installers normally offer 20-year or lifetime warranties covering leaks, rust, clogs, and other problems. Before selecting a company, carefully read through the warranty terms for workmanship and materials guarantees. Warranties are the best means of protecting your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Take some time to research online reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and other review sites to learn about customer experiences. Ask neighbors for recommendations of quality local gutter guard companies. When researching providers, you should choose companies with consistent positive feedback instead of just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are six typical types of gutter guards. These include the following:
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that partially obstruct your gutters, allowing water to pass through while blocking debris. On average, you can expect to pay $4.03 per linear foot for brush guards.
- Foam guards consist of pieces of foam that are placed in your gutters to stop debris. They're light and easy to install. On average, you can expect to spend $2.45 per linear foot for foam guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that let water through while keeping out debris. Screen guards cost around $4.00 per linear foot.
- Mesh guards have smaller holes than screen guards and similarly catch debris while allowing water to filter through. They are durable and help debris slide off rather than sit on your gutters. On average, you can expect to spend $3.83 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards have even smaller holes than mesh guards, letting even less debris into your gutters than mesh. These guards are very effective. Micro-mesh guards cost roughly $4.93 per linear foot.
- Surface tension guards, sometimes called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to let debris slide off while water flows into the gutter. They are often visible from the ground. Surface tension guards cost roughly $2.96 per linear foot.
