Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Gutter guards aren't always necessary, but evidence of blocked gutters is clear. Indicators of recurring gutter troubles are:
- Soggy ground or visible erosion around your foundation
- Frequent clogs that cause overflow and water to spill over gutters
- Leaky seams or joints where water leaks from the gutters
- Mold growth, interior wall stains, or peeling exterior paint on walls near gutters.
- Visibly saggy, damaged, or misaligned gutters that no longer direct rainwater correctly
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
Look for an experienced gutter guard installation company that has been in business for many years and has installed a wide variety of guard types 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 installing guards and request local referrals.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Verify that the businesses you're considering have valid licenses, bonding, workers compensation coverage, and general liability insurance. This safeguards you in case of injuries or accidents that could arise. Ask potential providers for current licensing and insurance papers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Seek out companies that offer 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 lack the rigorous testing of larger brands.
Seek Custom Fit Services
Guards should be measured and trimmed on-site to match your gutters. Select a company that custom measures and trims guards for your home rather than using one-size-fits-all guards. Guards fitted for your home leave no gaps for debris accumulation.
Examine Warranties
Leading gutter guard installers typically offer 20-year or lifetime warranties for leaks, clogs, rust, and other issues. Before choosing a company, carefully read through the warranty terms for materials and workmanship guarantees. Warranties are the most effective way to protect 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 read about customer experiences. Ask neighbors for recommendations of quality local gutter guard companies. When researching providers, we'd recommend opting for companies with a track record of consistently good feedback instead of just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are six typical types of gutter guards. These include the following:
- Foam guards are large pieces of foam that sit in your gutters to block debris. They're light and easy to install. Foam guards cost roughly $2.46 per linear foot.
- Brush guards are precisely what they sound like: large brush bristles that sit in your gutters and block debris but let water through. On average, you can expect to pay $4.04 per linear foot for brush guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water to pass through while blocking debris. Screen guards cost roughly $4.21 per linear foot.
- Mesh guards have smaller holes than screen guards and similarly block debris while allowing water to filter through. Mesh guards are durable and let debris slide off rather than sit on your gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $4.00 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards are typically the most effective. Micro-mesh guards have smaller holes than standard mesh guards and allow even less debris through. Micro-mesh guards cost roughly $5.08 per linear foot.
- 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. Surface tension guards cost roughly $3.10 per linear foot.
