Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
While gutter guards aren't always needed, signs of obstructed gutters are clear. Issues stemming from persistent gutter problems include:
- 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
- Leaky seams or joints where water leaks out of gutters
- Soggy ground or visible erosion around your foundation
- Frequent clogs that cause overflow and water to spill over 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 take measurements and install gutter guards on your unique home setup. Inquire how long they’ve been in business and request local referrals.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Verify that any providers you're considering are properly certified, bonded, and insured, holding both general liability and workers compensation protection. This shields you from liability for potential injuries and accidents. Request current licensing and insurance papers from any potential providers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Seek out companies that carry leading reputable gutter guard brands such as Gutter Helmet and LeafFilter. Be wary of companies that only carry generic no-name or their own off-brand guards, as these likely do not have the same rigorous testing as reputable national brands.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For top performance, guards should be custom fitted on-site to fit your gutters. Choose a company that specifically measures and trims guards for your home rather than using generic guards. Accurately fitted guards minimize gaps where debris can get trapped.
Examine Warranties
Top gutter guard installers usually provide 20-year or lifetime warranties against clogs, leaks, rust, and other defects. Before selecting a provider, closely inspect its warranty terms on workmanship and materials guarantees. Warranties are the most effective way to protect your investment into your gutters.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Take some time to look at online reviews on sites such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or Yelp to hear more about customer experiences. You can also ask neighbors to suggest quality local gutter guard companies. When researching providers, we'd recommend going for companies with a history of good reviews instead of just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
The six typical gutter guard types are as follows:
- Foam guards are lightweight and easy to install. Debris collects on the foam instead of in your gutter. On average, you can expect to spend $2.45 per linear foot for foam guards.
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that are installed in your gutters, allowing water to pass through while blocking debris. On average, you can expect to pay $4.04 per linear foot for brush guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water through while stopping debris. On average, you can expect to spend $4.14 per linear foot for screen guards.
- Mesh guards have smaller holes than screen guards and similarly catch debris while allowing water to flow through. Mesh guards are durable and allow debris to slide off rather than sit on top of your gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $3.94 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards have even smaller holes than mesh guards and allow even less debris into your gutters than mesh. They are extremely effective. On average, you can expect to spend $5.03 per linear foot for micro-mesh guards.
- Surface tension guards, also called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to let water flow into gutters while debris slides off. Generally, they will be visible from the ground. On average, you can expect to spend $3.06 per linear foot for surface tension guards.
