Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
While gutter guards aren't always needed, signs of clogged gutters are clear. Issues stemming from persistent gutter problems include:
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over gutters
- Leaky seams or joints where water leaks out of gutters
- Visibly damaged, sagging, or misaligned gutters that no longer correctly direct rainwater
- Soggy ground or visible erosion around your house's foundation
- Mold growth, interior wall stains, or peeling exterior paint on walls near gutters.
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
The right installation company will have ample experience, including many years in business and experience with numerous brands and models. Companies with experience can properly take measurements and fit gutter guards to meet your distinct needs. Inquire about how long a company has been doing installations and request referrals from nearby customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Always ensure professional gutter guard installers are licensed, bonded, and hold general liability insurance and workers compensation. This protects you from liability for any accidents or injuries that could occur. Ask to see current licensing and insurance papers when communicating with potential providers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Look for companies that carry tenured and trustworthy gutter guard brands like LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet. Avoid companies that only install their own off-brands or generic no-name guards, which may not have gone through the same level of rigorous testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For optimal performance, guards should be custom fitted on-site to fit your gutters. Select a company that takes specific measurements and does custom cutting for guards for your home rather than using one-size-fits-all guards. Properly fitted guards won't have any gaps where debris can get trapped.
Examine Warranties
Leading gutter guard companies are typically backed by 20-year or lifetime warranties against rust, clogs, leaks, and other defects. Before selecting a provider, closely inspect its warranty terms on materials and workmanship guarantees. Warranties are the best way to protect 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 to recommend quality local gutter guard companies. When researching providers, we'd recommend opting for companies with a track record of consistently good feedback instead of just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
The six typical gutter guard types include the following:
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that sit inside your gutters, stopping debris and allowing water to pass through. Brush guards cost around $4.05 per linear foot.
- Foam guards are large pieces of foam that sit in your gutters to catch debris. They're light and easy to install. Foam guards cost around $2.46 per linear foot.
- Screen guards have large holes that let water through while blocking debris. On average, you can expect to pay $4.41 per linear foot for screen guards.
- Mesh guards have smaller holes than screen guards and similarly block debris while allowing water to filter through. They are durable and allow debris to slide off rather than sit on your gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $4.15 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards have even smaller holes than mesh guards and allow even less debris through than mesh. These types of guards are very effective. Micro-mesh guards cost roughly $5.23 per linear foot.
- Surface tension guards, also called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to allow water to flow into gutter system while debris slides off. Generally, they can be seen from the ground. Surface tension guards cost roughly $3.25 per linear foot.
