Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
While gutter guards aren't always necessary, the symptoms of clogged gutters are typically clear. Signs of chronic gutter issues include:
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over gutters
- Mold growth, interior wall stains, or peeling exterior paint on walls near gutters.
- Visibly damaged, sagging, or misaligned gutters that no longer direct rainwater correctly
- Soggy ground or visible erosion around your home's foundation
- 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 provider that has been in business for several years and has installed various guard brands 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
Verify that any providers you're considering are properly licensed, bonded, and insured, holding both general liability and workers compensation coverage. This protects you from liability for possible injuries and accidents. Request current licensing and insurance papers from any potential providers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Look for installers that carry leading trusted gutter guard brands such as LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet. Steer clear of companies that only offer their own off-brand products or generic no-name guards. These lesser-known products may lack rigorous testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
Gutter guards should be sized and cut while at your home to match your gutters. Select a company that custom measures and trims guards for your house rather than using universal guards. Guards fitted for your home leave no gaps for debris accumulation.
Examine Warranties
Top gutter guard companies usually provide 20-year or lifetime warranties against clogs, leaks, rust, and other defects. Before choosing a provider, look into its warranty terms for workmanship and materials guarantees. Warranties are the best way to protect your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Be sure to check online reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and other review sites to read about customer experiences. Ask neighbors to recommend quality local gutter guard companies. When researching providers, it's best to select companies with consistent positive feedback instead of just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are six primary types of gutter guards. These include the following:
- Foam guards consist of pieces of foam that rest in your gutters to catch debris. They're lightweight 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 $4.04 per linear foot.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water to pass through while keeping out debris. On average, you can expect to spend $4.20 per linear foot for screen guards.
- Mesh guards have smaller holes than screen guards and similarly block debris while allowing water to flow through. These guards are durable and help debris slide off rather than sit on your gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $3.99 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 $5.07 per linear foot.
- Surface tension guards, also called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to let water flow into your gutter system while debris slides off. Generally, they can be seen from the ground. On average, you can expect to pay $3.10 per linear foot for surface tension guards.
