Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Gutter guards aren’t always needed, but the signs of overflowing and clogged gutters are clear. Signals of chronic gutter issues include:
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over gutters
- Mold growth, peeling exterior paint, or interior water stains on walls near gutters.
- Visibly damaged, sagging, or misaligned gutters that no longer correctly direct rainwater
- Leaky joints or seams where water leaks from the gutters
- Soggy ground or visible erosion around your foundation
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
The right installation company will have extensive experience, including many years in business and experience with various brands and models. Experienced companies can properly take measurements and install gutter guards to meet your distinct needs. Ask how long a company has been providing installations and request referrals from local customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Always ensure professional gutter guard installers are properly licensed, bonded, and maintain workers compensation and general liability insurance. This protects you from liability for any accidents or injuries that might happen. Ask to see current licensing and insurance papers when communicating with potential providers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Seek out companies that provide leading reputable 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 have not undergone the same rigorous testing as major brands.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For superior performance, gutter guards need on-site sizing and cutting to match your gutters. Choose a company that takes specific measurements and trims guards for your home instead of using one-size guards. Well-fitted guards avoid debris-trapping gaps.
Examine Warranties
Leading gutter guard installers often offer 20-year or lifetime warranties that protect against clogs, rust, leaks, and other issues. When choosing a company, look into the warranty details for both workmanship and materials guarantees. Warranties offer the most effective protection for your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Take some time to look at online reviews on Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and other review sites to read customer feedback. Ask neighbors which companies they recommend for quality local gutter guard installation. When researching, look for providers with consistently good feedback rather than just a single recommendation.
Types of Gutter Guards
The six typical gutter guard types are as follows:
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that partially obstruct your gutters, blocking debris and allowing water to pass through. Brush guards cost around $4.03 per linear foot.
- Foam guards are lightweight and easy to install. This type of guard catches debris on the foam and keeps it out of your gutter. Foam guards cost around $2.45 per linear foot.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water to pass through while blocking debris. On average, you can expect to spend $4.09 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 allow debris to slide off as opposed to sitting on top of the gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $3.90 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards have even smaller holes than mesh guards, allowing even less debris through than mesh. These guards are very effective. Micro-mesh guards cost around $5.00 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. Typically, they are visible from the ground. Surface tension guards cost around $3.02 per linear foot.
