Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Although gutter guards aren't always necessary, indicators of clogged gutters are typically clear. Signs of chronic gutter issues include:
- Mold growth, interior wall stains, or peeling exterior paint on walls near gutters.
- Leaky joints or seams where water leaks from the gutters
- Frequent clogs that cause overflow and water to spill over gutters
- Visibly saggy, damaged, or misaligned gutters that no longer correctly direct rainwater
- Soggy ground or visible erosion around your house's foundation
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
The right installation company will have ample experience, including multiple years in business and experience with several brands and models. Experienced companies can properly take measurements and fit gutter guards to meet your distinct needs. Inquire about how long a company has been doing installations and request referrals from nearby customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Always ensure professional gutter guard installers are licensed, bonded, and have general liability insurance and workers compensation. 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 carry tenured and trusted gutter guard brands such as LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet. 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 top performance, guards should be custom fitted on-site to fit your gutters. Choose a company that custom sizes and cuts guards for your home rather than using generic guards. Correctly fitted guards minimize gaps where debris can get trapped.
Examine Warranties
Leading gutter guard installers often offer 20-year or lifetime warranties that cover leaks, rust, clogs, and other defects. Before picking a provider, read over its warranty terms on workmanship and materials guarantees. Warranties are the best way to protect your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Be sure to check online reviews on Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and other review sites to find customer feedback. Ask neighbors which companies they recommend for quality local gutter guard installation. When researching, look for providers with a history of steady positive reviews rather than just a single recommendation.
Types of Gutter Guards
The six most common types of gutter guards include the following:
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that are installed in your gutters, allowing water to pass through while catching debris. On average, you can expect to spend $4.07 per linear foot for brush guards.
- Foam guards are light and easy to install. This type of guard catches debris on the foam and keeps it out of your gutter. On average, you can expect to spend $2.48 per linear foot for foam guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water to pass through while blocking debris. Screen guards cost around $4.76 per linear foot.
- 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 your gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $4.43 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards are typically the most effective. They have smaller holes than regular mesh guards and let even less debris through. On average, you can expect to pay $5.48 per linear foot for micro-mesh guards.
- Surface tension guards, sometimes called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to allow debris to slide off while water flows through into the gutter. They are often visible from the ground. On average, you can expect to spend $3.49 per linear foot for surface tension guards.
