Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
While gutter guards aren't always necessary, the symptoms of blocked gutters are usually clear. Signs of chronic gutter problems include:
- Mold growth, peeling exterior paint, or interior water stains on walls near gutters.
- Leaky seams or joints where water leaks out of gutters
- Frequent clogs that cause overflow and water to spill over gutters
- Visibly damaged, sagging, or misaligned gutters that no longer correctly direct rainwater
- Soggy ground or visible erosion patterns around your house's foundation
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
Companies with years of gutter guard installation experience that have handled various styles and models will know how to take accurate measurements and install guards to your home’s unique dimensions. Contact these providers to learn about their experience and ask for local references.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Always confirm your gutter guard installers are licensed, bonded, and have workers compensation and general liability insurance. This protects you from liability for any accidents or injuries that could occur. Ask to see current licensing and insurance papers when evaluating potential providers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Seek out companies that carry tenured and trusted 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 optimal performance, gutter guards need to be sized and cut on-site to match your unique gutter setup. Pick a company that custom measures and trims guards specifically for your home, rather than using universal guards. Properly fitted guards will leave no gaps for debris to get stuck.
Examine Warranties
High-quality gutter guard companies usually provide 20-year or lifetime warranties against clogs, leaks, rust, 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 the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, Yelp, and other review sites to learn about customer experiences. Ask neighbors for recommendations of quality local gutter guard companies. When researching providers, we'd recommend opting for companies with consistent positive feedback instead of just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
The six most common types of gutter guards are as follows:
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that partially obstruct your gutters, stopping debris while allowing water to pass through. Brush guards cost around $4.04 per linear foot.
- Foam guards are light and easy to install. With this type of guard, debris lands on the foam instead of in your gutter. On average, you can expect to spend $2.46 per linear foot for foam guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water to pass through while blocking debris. On average, you can expect to spend $4.31 per linear foot for screen guards.
- 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 rather than sitting on top of your gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $4.07 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards are normally the most effective. Micro-mesh guards have smaller holes than standard mesh guards and allow even less debris through. Micro-mesh guards cost roughly $5.15 per linear foot.
- Surface tension guards, also called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to encourage water to flow into your gutter system while debris slides off. Generally, they will be visible from the ground. Surface tension guards cost around $3.17 per linear foot.
