Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Although gutter guards aren't always required, the symptoms of clogged gutters are typically clear. Signs of chronic gutter issues include:
- 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 seams or joints where water leaks from the gutters
- Visibly saggy, damaged, 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 ample experience, including many years in business and experience with numerous brands and models. Experienced companies can properly measure and fit gutter guards to meet your distinct needs. Inquire about how long a company has been performing installations and request referrals from local customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Verify that the businesses you're considering have valid licensing, bonding, workers compensation coverage, and general liability insurance. This safeguards you in case of any injury or accident that could arise. Ask potential providers for current licensing and insurance papers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Look for leading gutter guard brands such as Gutter Helmet and LeafFilter when selecting an installer. Avoid off-brand or generic no-name guards, which likely have not gone through rigorous quality control testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
Your 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 one-size-fits-all guards. Guards fitted for your home leave no gaps for debris accumulation.
Examine Warranties
High-quality gutter guard companies normally offer 20-year or lifetime warranties covering leaks, clogs, rust, and other issues. Before picking a company, carefully review the warranty terms for workmanship and materials guarantees. Warranties are the most effective way to protect your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
It's a good idea to look at online reviews on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, or Yelp to learn more about customer experiences. You can also ask neighbors for recommendations on quality gutter guard businesses near you. When researching potential providers, it's best to opt for companies with a history of consistent positive feedback rather than just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are six typical types of gutter guards. These include the following:
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that are installed in your gutters, stopping debris and allowing water to pass through. Brush guards cost around $4.06 per linear foot.
- Foam guards are light and easy to install. Debris collects on the foam instead of in your gutter. On average, you can expect to pay $2.47 per linear foot for foam guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water to pass through while keeping out debris. On average, you can expect to spend $4.58 per linear foot for screen guards.
- Mesh guards stop debris but let water through. Mesh guards have even smaller holes than screen guards. They're durable and allow debris to slide off rather than sitting on top of the gutters. On average, you can expect to spend $4.28 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards are normally 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 pay $5.34 per linear foot for micro-mesh guards.
- Surface tension guards, sometimes called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to allow debris to slide off while water flows through into the gutter. They are often visible from the ground. On average, you can expect to pay $3.36 per linear foot for surface tension guards.
