Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Although gutter guards aren't always needed, the symptoms of blocked gutters are usually clear. Signs of chronic gutter issues include:
- Visibly saggy, damaged, or misaligned gutters that no longer direct rainwater correctly
- Leaky joints or seams where water leaks from the gutters
- Soggy ground or visible erosion around your home's foundation
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over gutters
- Mold growth, peeling exterior paint, or interior water stains on walls near gutters.
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 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
Confirm that any businesses you're considering are properly certified, bonded, and insured, holding both general liability and workers compensation policies. This shields you from liability for possible injuries and accidents. Request current licensing and insurance papers from any potential providers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Look for reputable 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
For the best performance, guards should be measured and cut on your property to fit your gutters. Select a company that takes specific measurements and does custom cutting for guards for your home rather than using one-size-fits-all guards. Accurately fitted guards minimize gaps where debris can get trapped.
Examine Warranties
Leading gutter guard companies often offer 20-year or lifetime warranties against clogs, leaks, rust, and other defects. Before picking a provider, look into its warranty terms for workmanship and materials guarantees. Warranties are the most effective way to protect your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Take some time to research 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
There are six typical gutter guard types. These include the following:
- 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 $2.47 per linear foot.
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that partially obstruct your gutters, catching debris while allowing water to pass through. On average, you can expect to pay $4.05 per linear foot for brush guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water to pass through while stopping debris. On average, you can expect to spend $4.51 per linear foot for screen guards.
- Mesh guards have smaller holes than screen guards and similarly catch debris while letting water filter through. Mesh guards are durable and help debris slide off rather than sit on top of your gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $4.23 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards are generally the most effective. Micro-mesh guards have smaller holes than regular mesh guards, which lets even less debris through. Micro-mesh guards cost around $5.30 per linear foot.
- Surface tension guards, sometimes called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to let debris slide off while water flows through into the gutter. They are normally visible from the ground. On average, you can expect to pay $3.31 per linear foot for surface tension guards.
