Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Gutter guards aren’t always necessary, but the signs of overflowing and clogged gutters are clear. Here are some signals of chronic gutter issues:
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over gutters
- Leaky joints or seams where water leaks from the gutters
- Visibly saggy, damaged, or misaligned gutters that no longer correctly direct rainwater
- Mold growth, peeling exterior paint, or interior water stains on walls near gutters.
- Soggy ground or visible erosion around your foundation
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
Look for an experienced gutter guard installation company that has been in business for multiple years and has installed a wide variety of guard types and models. These companies know how to properly take measurements and install gutter guards on your unique home setup. Inquire how long they’ve been installing guards and request local referrals.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Confirm that any businesses you're considering are properly certified, bonded, and insured, holding both general liability and workers compensation protection. This shields you from liability for possible injuries and accidents. Request current licensing and insurance papers from any potential providers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Look for leading 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 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
Leading gutter guard installers normally offer 20-year or lifetime warranties for leaks, rust, clogs, and other issues. Before selecting a company, carefully read through the warranty terms for materials and workmanship guarantees. Warranties are the best way to protect your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
You should check online reviews on sites such as Yelp, Google Reviews, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to read about customer experiences. You can also ask neighbors to suggest quality local gutter guard companies. When researching providers, it's best to choose companies with a history of good reviews instead of just a single review.
Types of Gutter Guards
The six primary types of gutter guards are as follows:
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that are installed in your gutters, allowing water to pass through while catching debris. On average, you can expect to pay $4.01 per linear foot for brush guards.
- Foam guards consist of pieces of foam that rest in your gutters to block debris. They're light and easy to install. On average, you can expect to spend $2.44 per linear foot for foam guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water to pass through while stopping debris. On average, you can expect to pay $3.70 per linear foot for screen guards.
- Mesh guards have smaller holes than screen guards and similarly block debris while allowing water to filter through. Mesh guards are durable and allow debris to slide off rather than sit on your gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $3.59 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards are normally the most effective. Micro-mesh guards have smaller holes than standard mesh guards and let even less debris through. On average, you can expect to pay $4.72 per linear foot for micro-mesh guards.
- Surface tension guards, also called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to encourage water to flow into your gutters while debris slides off. Normally, they will be visible from the ground. Surface tension guards cost roughly $2.75 per linear foot.
