Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Gutter guards aren't required for all homes, but the signs of clogged and overflowing gutters are clear. Indicators of chronic gutter troubles are:
- Leaky joints or seams where water leaks from the gutters
- Soggy ground or visible erosion patterns around your home's foundation
- 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 direct rainwater correctly
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. Companies with experience 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 local customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Make sure that any businesses you're considering are properly licensed, bonded, and insured, holding both general liability and workers compensation policies. This shields you from liability for possible injuries and accidents. Ask potential providers for current licensing and insurance papers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Seek out companies that carry leading reputable gutter guard brands such as LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet. Be wary of companies only offering generic no-name or their own off-brand guards, as these likely have not undergone the same rigorous testing as major brands.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For the best performance, gutter guards need to be measured and fitted on-site to match your gutters. Choose a company that takes custom measurements and trims guards for your home instead of using one-size guards. Properly-fitted guards prevent debris-trapping gaps from forming.
Examine Warranties
Top gutter guard installers often offer 20-year or lifetime warranties that protect against clogs, rust, leaks, and other issues. When choosing a company, carefully examine the warranty details for both materials and workmanship guarantees. Warranties give you the best protection for your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Take some time to research online reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and other review sites to learn about customer experiences. Ask neighbors to recommend quality local gutter guard companies. When researching providers, it's best to select companies with a track record of consistently good feedback instead of just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are six most common types of gutter guards. These include the following:
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that sit inside 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.
- Foam guards are large pieces of foam that rest in your gutters to stop debris. They're lightweight and easy to install. On average, you can expect to pay $2.46 per linear foot for foam guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water to pass through while keeping debris out. On average, you can expect to pay $4.19 per linear foot for screen guards.
- Mesh guards have smaller holes than screen guards and similarly block debris while allowing water to flow through. These guards are durable and encourage debris to slide off rather than sit on top of your gutters. On average, you can expect to spend $3.98 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards have even smaller holes than mesh guards, allowing even less debris into your gutters than mesh. They are very effective. On average, you can expect to pay $5.07 per linear foot for micro-mesh guards.
- Surface tension guards, also called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to let water flow into your gutters while debris slides off. Generally, they can be seen from the ground. On average, you can expect to pay $3.09 per linear foot for surface tension guards.
