Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
While gutter guards aren't always necessary, indicators of backed up gutters are clear. Some indicators of persistent gutter problems include:
- Leaky joints or seams where water leaks from the gutters
- Mold growth, peeling exterior paint, or interior water stains on walls near 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 home's foundation
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
The right installation company will have extensive experience, including multiple years in business and experience with numerous brands and models. Experienced companies can properly measure and install gutter guards to meet your distinct needs. Inquire about how long a company has been providing installations and request referrals from nearby customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Confirm that the companies you're considering have valid licensing, bonding, 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 leading gutter guard brands such as LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet when selecting an installer. Avoid off-brand or generic no-name guards, which likely do not undergo the same level of rigorous testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For ideal performance, gutter guards need to be measured and trimmed on-site to match your unique gutter setup. Pick a company that uniquely sizes and cuts guards specifically for your home, rather than using one-size-fits-all guards. Accurately fitted guards will leave no gaps for debris to get stuck.
Examine Warranties
Leading gutter guard installers are typically backed by 20-year or lifetime warranties against rust, leaks, clogs, and other defects. Before picking a provider, closely inspect its warranty terms for workmanship and materials guarantees. Warranties are the best way to protect your investment into your gutters.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Be sure to check online reviews on sites such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or Google Reviews to see what customers say about their experience. You can also ask your neighbors for recommendations on quality gutter guard businesses in your area. When researching potential providers, you should choose companies with a history of consistent positive feedback rather than just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
The six primary gutter guard types are as follows:
- Foam guards are large pieces of foam that are placed in your gutters to catch debris. They're light and easy to install. Foam guards cost roughly $2.45 per linear foot.
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that partially obstruct your gutters, catching debris while allowing water to pass through. On average, you can expect to pay $4.02 per linear foot for brush guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water to pass through while stopping debris. Screen guards cost roughly $3.92 per linear foot.
- Mesh guards stop debris but allow water to flow through. Mesh guards have even smaller holes than screen guards. They're durable and encourage debris to slide off as opposed to sitting on top of the gutters. On average, you can expect to spend $3.77 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards are generally the most effective. They have smaller holes than standard mesh guards and let even less debris through. On average, you can expect to pay $4.87 per linear foot for micro-mesh guards.
- Surface tension guards, sometimes called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to let debris slide off while water flows into the gutter. They are normally visible from the ground. Surface tension guards cost around $2.90 per linear foot.
