Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Gutter guards aren’t always needed, but the signs of overflowing and clogged gutters are clear. Here are some signals of chronic gutter issues:
- 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.
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over gutters
- Leaky joints or seams where water leaks out of gutters
- Soggy ground or visible erosion around your home's foundation
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
When picking an installation company, look for one with extensive experience and knowledge about various brands and guard types. An experienced company will understand how to take measurements and fit gutter guards for your specific needs. Ask about a provider's years of experience and request referrals from local customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Verify that any companies you're considering are properly licensed, bonded, and insured, holding both general liability and workers compensation coverage. 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 installers that offer tenured trusted gutter guard brands such as Gutter Helmet and LeafFilter. Steer clear of companies that only install generic no-name guards or their own off-brand products. These lesser-known products may lack rigorous testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For superior performance, gutter guards need custom measurements and trimming on-site to match your gutters. Select a company that takes specific measurements and trims guards for your house instead of using universal options. Properly-fitted guards avoid debris-trapping gaps.
Examine Warranties
Leading gutter guard installers often offer 20-year or lifetime warranties for rust, clogs, leaks, and other issues. When selecting a company, read through the warranty details for both materials and workmanship guarantees. Warranties offer the most effective protection for your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Take some time to research online reviews on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and other review sites to learn about customer experiences. Ask neighbors for recommendations of quality local gutter guard companies. When researching providers, you should choose companies with consistent positive feedback instead of just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are six primary gutter guard types. These include the following:
- Foam guards are lightweight and easy to install. Debris collects on the foam instead of in your gutter. On average, you can expect to pay $2.46 per linear foot for foam guards.
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that are installed in your gutters, catching debris while allowing water to pass through. On average, you can expect to pay $4.05 per linear foot for brush guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water through while keeping debris out. On average, you can expect to spend $4.36 per linear foot for screen guards.
- Mesh guards have smaller holes than screen guards and similarly catch debris while letting water filter through. These guards are durable and allow debris to slide off rather than sit on top of your gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $4.11 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards are generally the most effective. Micro-mesh guards have smaller holes than regular mesh guards and allow even less debris through. On average, you can expect to spend $5.19 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 can be seen from the ground. Surface tension guards cost roughly $3.21 per linear foot.
